Theme: Businesses that Solve Social Issues in Africa

Description

Purpose of the Contest:
Kobe City, Japan, is promoting economic exchange with Africa, leveraging its international outlook. As part of the third “Africa Month in Kobe 2025,” this contest is being held to promote new business collaborations and explore innovative ideas addressing pressing social challenges in Africa.

Through keynote speeches, panel discussions, and networking sessions, the event aims to create meaningful interactions between African stakeholders and Japanese businesses. The contest seeks innovative business ideas that solve social issues in Africa, supporting both early-stage concepts and already launched startups.

By 2050, one in four people globally will be African. The contest addresses the need for scalable solutions in light of Africa’s fast economic growth, leapfrogging tech phenomena (e.g., mobile money), and persistent societal challenges.

Application Period

April 16, 2025 – May 16, 2025 (5:00 PM Japan Time)

Apply Here – Dedicated Application Form

Eligibility

Open to corporations, organizations, and individuals (including students) with ideas or businesses related to solving social issues in Africa.

Recruitment Categories

• Startup Category: For businesses already launched

• Idea Category: For business concepts still in the planning stage

Judging Criteria

• Clarity of the problem to be solved

• Effectiveness of the proposed solution

• Originality and competitive advantage

• Feasibility (technology, human resources, funding)

• Potential for large-scale social impact

• For startups: Viability of the business model

Screening Process

Step 1: Document Review
Initial screening based on submitted applications. Results by mid-June.

Step 2: Final Pitch
Shortlisted finalists will pitch their ideas on August 26, 2025, during a Business Forum in Kobe City. Finalists may attend in person or online.

Travel support is available for international finalists (up to 2 people per team, non-cash reimbursement).

Awards

a. Startup Category

•  Grand Prize: ¥1,000,000 (1 team)

•  Excellence Prize: ¥500,000 (1 team)

b. Idea Category

•  Winner Prizes: ¥200,000 each (2 teams)

c. Special Jury Award

•  ¥200,000 (1 team from either category)

How to Apply

• Complete the Application Form (English or Japanese)

• Optional: Upload reference materials

• Final pitch presentation must be in English (interpretation available for Q&A if needed)

Suggested Themes (Idea Perspectives)

Participants are encouraged to submit solutions within the following categories:

1. Access to Healthcare

2. Renewable Energy

3. Climate Change Solutions

4. Water & Sanitation

5. Urban Development

6. Sustainable Agriculture

7. Educational Technology

8. Financial Services Access

9. Sustainable Tourism

10. Women’s Empowerment

Ideas with strong collaboration potential with Kobe-based companies and research institutions are especially encouraged.

Important Notes

• Judging outcomes are final; no inquiries will be entertained.

• Some awards may not be granted if no suitable candidates apply.

• Finalists must present; non-participation (in-person or online) = disqualification.

• False information = disqualification.

• Photos and pitch materials may be used for publicity.

• Application documents will not be returned.

• Final presentations must be in English (interpretation available for Q&A only).

Contact Info

AFRIKA meets KANSAI
📧 info@afrikameetskansai.org
📞 +81-80-4023-7217
🏠 8-2 Oharacho, Ashiya City, Hyogo Prefecture, Japan