Spark the
Future.
An annual pitch programme for early-stage African entrepreneurs working in sustainability, technology, and the creative economy.
10 ventures. One stage. The most consequential room in African creative enterprise.
Ten ventures.
One week.
Doors that don't close.
Spark the Future selects 10 early-stage ventures each year for a live pitch competition held on stage at the Atinuda Summit. Each venture is focused on innovation within the creative economy — sustainability, technology, experience design, or the infrastructure that powers events and culture.
Finalists receive coaching from industry leaders, access to the Atinuda mentor network, and the opportunity to pitch live in front of active investors and the 300+ member Atinuda community.
Winners receive investment introductions, partnership agreements with the programme's corporate sponsor, and a platform that most startups spend years trying to reach.
A stage, not a platform
Finalists pitch live to the Atinuda audience — 60 of the most connected leaders in African business and creative enterprise. There is no algorithm. Just a room.
Investor access
Active funds and angels looking specifically for African creative-economy ventures attend the finals as judges and guests. Introductions are warm and contextualised.
Mentor network
A dedicated pitch clinic with programme speakers and partners to pressure-test your model, story, and opportunity before the live audience.
Partnership support
Past editions have included brand partnerships with Nord Motors. Each cohort enters the programme with access to the resources of the year's partner network.
Applications open
later in 2026.
The 2026 edition of Spark the Future will be announced alongside the next Atinuda Summit. We are currently accepting expressions of interest from early-stage ventures and potential programme partners.
To be first in line when applications open, or to enquire about corporate partnership of the programme, send us a note.
Early-stage African ventures building in the creative economy — events, culture, experience, sustainability, tech.
Minimum 12 months of operation, a clear thesis on innovation, and the confidence to pitch it live.
A stage, a network, coaching, investment introductions, and a corporate partnership.