Eight Startups Empowered in Inaugural Accelerator

The African Export-Import Bank (Afreximbank) has launched its first cohort of the “Afreximbank Accelerator Programme,” selecting eight high-potential startups from across Africa and the diaspora to receive intensive support. The program aims to accelerate the development of digital infrastructure for intra-African trade.

A Competitive Selection Process

From over 1,600 applications, Afreximbank chose ventures representing key sectors like cross-border payments, digital logistics, agri-export platforms, and AI-powered solutions. The selected startups include:

  • Fincart.io (Egypt)
  • OnePort 365 (Nigeria, Ghana, Kenya)
  • Timon (active in 15 countries)
  • Zowasel (Nigeria, Kenya, Tanzania)
  • Gebeya (Ethiopian and pan-African)
  • Fluna (active in 10 countries)
  • Capsa Technologies (Nigeria)
  • Daba Finance (Francophone Africa)

Comprehensive Support Package

Qualifying startups will receive:

  • Up to US$250,000 investment (subject to due diligence)
  • Mentorship from industry experts
  • Market access opportunities across key African trade corridors
  • Regulatory guidance through Afreximbank’s relationships with central banks
  • Integration pathways into the Bank’s digital trade ecosystem

The Cairo kick-off week, featuring engagements with Afreximbank leadership and culminating in a Social Mixer at the Grand Egyptian Museum, symbolizes the link between Africa’s heritage and its innovation future.

Building Digital Trade Rails for Africa

These ventures have already demonstrated significant impact:

  • Fluna has facilitated over US$50 million in trade across 10 countries
  • Capsa has processed more than NGN70 billion in supply chain finance
  • OnePort 365 connects vital trade corridors between Nigeria, Ghana, and Kenya
  • Timon supports payments in 15 countries with expansion plans to reach 40
  • Zowasel has connected over 4,000 verified cooperatives and agribusinesses

By combining market access, partnerships, and infrastructure support, Afreximbank is positioning itself as a strategic enabler of cross-border trade and continental integration — particularly crucial for the implementation of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA) agreement.