TotalEnergies to empower 100 African startup businesses through the Startupper of the Year Challenge
TotalEnergies plans to support 100 startup businesses from 32 African countries in the 4th edition of the ‘Startupper of the Year Challenge’ to commemorate its 100th anniversary. Dr Adesuwa Adewole, General Manager of TotalEnergies Country Services, emphasized that this challenge highlights the company’s dedication to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship while contributing to the socio-economic growth of African nations where TotalEnergies operates.
The initiative aims to empower local communities by assisting the most creative entrepreneurs in implementing their projects. Since 2015, 365 winners have been recognized and supported globally from over 40,000 applications. In the upcoming 2024/2025 edition, TotalEnergies will back and reward 3 young entrepreneurs from each of the 32 countries and 4 Pan African winners aged 18 to 35 with promising business ideas or startups less than three years old, across various sectors.
A local jury, including experts, business leaders, and sustainability stakeholders, will select winners in different categories such as Innov’Up, Cycle’Up, and Power’Up, focusing on entrepreneurship, circular economy, and sustainable energy projects. Additionally, an international jury will choose four projects in the Power’Up category. Dr Adewole highlighted that all entries will be evaluated based on sustainability, innovation, feasibility, gender equality, and women’s inclusion.
The recipient of the award will be designated as a ‘Startupper of the Year by TotalEnergies’ and will be granted a financial reward of N8,000,000.00 (eight million naira), personalized guidance, and a marketing campaign to amplify the visibility of their project. Furthermore, winners will have the chance to present their projects at a celebratory gathering, with specific event details to be disclosed at a later time.
Registration will commence on the 13th of May, 2024, and will be conducted online. Applicants will have until the 18th of June, 2024 to finalize their applications. To apply and participate in the program click here
