SiGMA Pitch 2027 Opens Applications to African Startups
Early-stage startups across Africa are being invited to apply for the SiGMA Pitch Startup Competition 2027.
This is an international platform designed to connect emerging businesses with venture capitalists, investors, mentors and industry leaders.
The competition will form part of SiGMA Africa 2027, scheduled to take place at GrandWest Casino and Entertainment World in Cape Town, South Africa, from February 15 to 17, 2027. The live pitch competition is set for February 17.
SiGMA says more than 100 startups will be selected to showcase their products and ideas through its Startup Village. From this pool, judges will select six finalists to compete in the live on-stage pitch for an opportunity to secure equity investment and other business support.
Who Can Apply?
The competition is targeted at promising early-stage startups, typically businesses at the Seed to Series A stage, with total funding of no more than €3 million.
Eligible startups should be developing innovative products or services in areas including:
- iGaming and sports betting
- Casino and gaming technology
- Esports
- Affiliate technology
- Artificial intelligence
- Fintech
- Blockchain
- Related emerging technologies
Applicants will be assessed based on factors such as innovation, market potential, commercial viability, scalability, industry relevance, and the strength of their founding team.
What Selected Startups Stand to Gain
Startups accepted into the SiGMA Startup Village will gain exposure to investors, operators, industry professionals and potential business partners.
Participants will receive access to the Startup Lounge, networking opportunities, event passes and a platform to showcase their businesses to delegates attending the summit. They will also be automatically considered for the Startup Pitch competition, although Startup Village selection does not guarantee a place among the six finalists.
Finalists will have three minutes to pitch their businesses, followed by five minutes of questions from the judging panel.
SiGMA also encourages applicants to submit a three-minute introductory video, which can strengthen their chances of being selected for the Startup Village.
Application Deadline
Applications for the SiGMA Africa Pitch 2027 close on January 6, 2027. The shortlist is expected on January 22, while selected finalists will submit their pitch decks by February 3 ahead of the live competition on February 17.
There is no application or participation fee for the Startup Village and Pitch competition. However, selected participants are responsible for their own travel, accommodation, visa and related expenses.
How to Apply
Interested founders can submit their applications through the official SiGMA Africa Pitch application page.
Application deadline: January 6, 2027
Live Pitch: February 17, 2027
Location: Cape Town, South Africa
Finalists: 6 startups
Pitch format: 3-minute presentation + 5-minute Q&A
Application fee: Free
