The AfricArena Grand Summit continues to strengthen bridges between African startups and global capital, offering a forum for partnerships, investment, and meaningful ecosystem development.
This follows the conclusion of this year's Summit, which drew hundreds of founders, investors, corporate innovators, and ecosystem leaders from across Africa and the world.
This year’s summit marked the culmination of Africa Investor Week, following the Founders Venture Retreat, creating a pipeline of learning, deal-flow, and ecosystem synergy.
In a statement, the organisers said: “Day one opened bringing together LPs, GPs, corporates, and top African startups. With curated conversations and high-intent engagement. Panels, reverse pitches, and expert fireside conversations explored the continent’s biggest opportunities across AI, climate tech, fintech, mobility, and digital infrastructure.
“The day ended with VC Night, an exclusive gathering designed to spark fresh ideas, strengthen cross-border investor collaboration, and spotlight Africa’s rising startup stars.”
AfricArena went on to say the vibrancy continued on day two with sector-focused discussions, startup showcases, reverse investor pitches, and significant interactions between entrepreneurs and investors.
Below is the list of 2025 Grand Summit Award winners.
• Best AI Startup: Palm AI
• Best FinTech Startup: VunaPay
• Best Seed Stage Startup: Alyfa
• Best Climate Tech Startup: Kilimo Fresh
• Best Series A Startup: Sevi
• Most Promising Entrepreneur: Blok
• Most Attractive Investor: Digital Africa Ventures
• Best Venture Studio: Delta40
• Best Ecosystem Support Organisation: Mafikeng Hub
According to AfricArena, the winners embody the courage and ingenuity that will propel Africa's next wave of global-scale companies.
It added: “Their commitment to solving real challenges, building inclusive technologies, and driving economic transformation is a testament to the thriving potential of Africa's innovation landscape.”
Christophe Viarnaud, CEO of AfricArena, concluded by saying: “This year’s cohort reflects the sheer quality, maturity, and global readiness of African founders. The winners are not just building companies; they are shaping the future of industries across the continent.”
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