DBT rolls out red carpet for African tech startups at Pathfinder Awards

DBT rolls out red carpet for African tech startups at Pathfinder Awards

The United Kingdom’s Department for Business and Trade (DBT) has rolled out the red carpet for African tech startups with the introduction of the Unicorn Kingdom: Pathfinder Awards (UKPA). 

With Applications open from This initiative is not just an awards program; it’s a clarion call for the continent’s most innovative minds to step onto the global stage.

The UKPA is poised to be the DBT’s most extensive global recognition for tech startups, surpassing the achievements of the Tech Rocketship Awards. It’s an open invitation to African startups specializing in AI, CAM Technology, Cyber Security, and Digital Trade Solutions to join the UK’s $1 trillion tech sector.

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UK Investment Minister Dominic Johnson has hailed the awards as a “fantastic opportunity” for tech scale-ups to integrate into the UK’s thriving tech ecosystem. His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner for Africa, John Humphrey, has also emphasized the vibrant nature of the African startup landscape, noting its potential to contribute innovative solutions to global challenges.

Empowering the Next Generation of Unicorns

The UKPA offers more than just accolades; it provides a comprehensive growth package. Winners will embark on a tailor-made program in the UK, including networking with industry leaders, attending VIP events, and receiving support from the DBT’s Global Entrepreneur Programme.

The journey to the UKPA’s final stage involves a rigorous selection process, ensuring that only the most promising startups take the spotlight. With applications closing on 30th April, the race is on for African startups to seize this unprecedented opportunity.

The UKPA is not only a platform for recognition but also a catalyst for economic growth. By connecting African startups with the UK’s thriving tech sector, the awards aim to foster international partnerships, drive innovation, and create job opportunities both in Africa and the UK.

The awards are a testament to the UK’s commitment to nurturing global innovation. By providing African startups with access to the UK’s resources and expertise, the UKPA aims to create a symbiotic relationship that benefits both economies.

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The Future of Tech: Africa’s Rising Stars

The path to the UKPA is marked by a series of competitive rounds, including regional finals and semi-finals, culminating in the live finals in the UK. This process not only highlights the best of African innovation but also prepares the startups for the global market.

The UKPA celebrates the diversity and ingenuity of the African tech ecosystem. By showcasing the unique solutions that African startups bring to the table, the awards highlight the continent’s role as a key player in the global tech arena.

The UKPA shines a spotlight on the future of technology, with Africa’s rising stars leading the charge. The awards recognize the potential of African startups to shape the future of tech, offering them a stage to share their vision with the world.