Founders are invited to showcase their tech expertise and enhance their digital solutions with Africa’s first API marketplace.

Founders and startups have been thrown a lifeline to showcase their tech expertise and enhance digital solutions with  Africa’s first application programming interface (API) marketplace in Cape Town next month.

MTN’s Chenosis, the continent’s home grown API marketplace, has officially announced its inaugural Tech Startup Challenge 2024.

This initiative aims to foster innovation, encourage collaboration among tech enthusiasts, and support the development of local start-ups in the rapidly evolving digital ecosystem.

Founders and startups have been encouraged to enter the MTN-powered Chenosis Tech Start-Up Challenge competition, which is viewed as a springboard for Africa’s rising start-ups to showcase their businesses, products and services.

“We’re offering an AfricArena RAISE package to the entrant we believe shows the strongest potential to scale. Featuring a $1,000 travel allowance, 5 hours of online strategic market positioning coaching, a pitch opportunity and exhibition booth at the AfricArena Grand Summit, and a personalized introduction to 5+ investors across our network, the RAISE package will elevate your business to the next level,” reads the invitation.

It added “Founded by a team of passionate entrepreneurs, Chenosis seeks to bridge the gap between developers and businesses by providing a platform that simplifies access to application programming interfaces (APIs).

“With the tech industry in Africa gaining momentum, the marketplace will empower local developers to monetize their APIs, while businesses can streamline their operations through innovative integrations.”

The Tech Startup Challenge, set to launch on November 15, 2024, invites startups from across Africa to submit their API-driven solutions.

The competition is open to all tech innovators, from early-stage startups to established companies looking to showcase their latest products. 

Participants will have the chance to win substantial cash prizes, mentorship opportunities, and potential partnerships with leading companies in the tech sector.

Entries close on October 31, and interested parties can apply here.