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Global seed-stage startup competition for emerging markets Seedstars World has opened applications for its event in Bamako, Mali, which the winning startup to be given the chance to pitch for US$500,000 in equity investment at the global final in Switzerland next year.

Seedstars World has already picked winners in Mozambique, Tunisia, Tanzania, South Africa, Uganda, Ethiopia and Nigeria, and has now opened applications for its second annual event in Bamako event on September 14.

Startups have until September 7 to complete their applications, with applicants required to be less than two years old, have raised less than US$500 000 in funding, have built a minimum viable product, and have regional and global scalability.

In order to provide local entrepreneurs with this opportunity and deliver the best possible event, Seedstars World has partnered Impact Hub Bamako, which is representing the initiative throughout the year.

“The Seedstars experience has been very enriching for participants and for us at Impact Hub Bamako. The entrepreneurs selected to pitch learned to get out of their comfort zone and present their projects with more conviction and passion,” said Mohamed Keita, chief executive officer (CEO) of Impact Hub Bamako.

“Last year’s local winner, Aikio Corp, had the opportunity to connect with a global emerging network. We have followed its remarkable progress over just one year since Seedstars 2016.”

Up to 10 of the best seed stage startups in Mali will be selected to pitch for the opportunity to compete at the Seedstars Summit in Switzerland.

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