MentorPitch was established to address several challenges faced by startups in Africa:

• Lack of Access to Funding: Many startups struggle to secure the early-stage funding needed to scale their operations.

• Limited Mentorship: Entrepreneurs often lack access to experienced mentors who can guide them through challenges.

• Unstructured Ecosystems: The fragmented startup ecosystem in many African countries leaves entrepreneurs without the networks and support systems necessary for success.

The goal of MentorPitch is to fill these gaps by providing structured mentorship, connecting startups with potential investors, and creating a platform for innovation and collaboration. Ultimately, the program seeks to boost the success rate of African startups and position them as key players in the global market.

The MentorPitch Program runs for 12 weeks and is structured to provide startups with hands-on support and targeted resources. 

Here's how it works:

1. Selection Process

   • Startups are invited to apply for the program and are selected based on their stage of development, market potential, and the impact of their solutions. The focus is on post-MVP startups that are ready to scale.

2. Weekly Mentorship Sessions

   • Participants engage in weekly one-on-one mentorship sessions with seasoned entrepreneurs, industry experts, and business professionals. These sessions address critical aspects of scaling a startup, such as marketing strategies, financial planning, and operational efficiency.

3. Workshops and Training

   • The program includes workshops on investment readiness, pitching skills, and customer acquisition strategies. These sessions equip participants with the skills needed to attract early-stage funding and grow their businesses sustainably.

4. Pitch Day

   • At the end of the program, startups present their refined pitches to an audience of angel investors, venture capitalists, and stakeholders. This graduation event serves as a platform for securing investment and networking with potential partners.

The impact of MentorPitch can be seen in the success stories of its alumni, who have gone on to achieve remarkable milestones:

• Mwiche Mukoma – Green Giraffe Zambia

Founder Mwiche Mukoma participated in MentorPitch to scale her eco-friendly waste management startup, Green Giraffe Zambia. By converting organic waste into sustainable products like fertilizers and energy, Green Giraffe addresses critical environmental challenges. Through MentorPitch, Mwiche refined her business model and secured funding, enabling her to expand operations and lead Zambia’s green tech movement.

• Kunda Wami – Little Sweethearts Zambia

As the CEO of Little Sweethearts Zambia, Kunda Wami leveraged MentorPitch to strengthen her baby products brand. The program helped her streamline supply chains, enhance marketing strategies, and secure a larger customer base. Today, Little Sweethearts is a trusted household name, offering high-quality, locally sourced products.

• Astanah Energy

Focused on renewable energy solutions, Astanah Energy used the MentorPitch platform to secure a $5,000 investment during its pitch day. This funding allowed the company to expand its solar and wind power solutions, making significant contributions to Zambia’s renewable energy goals.

These success stories highlight the program's ability to empower startups and drive meaningful change in diverse sectors such as green technology, consumer goods, and renewable energy.

The next cohort of MentorPitch is set to build on the program’s growing legacy. 

Applications will open in mid 2025, inviting startups from Zambia and other African nations to join this transformative initiative.

Who Can Join?

• Eligibility Criteria: Startups must have a working MVP, demonstrated early traction, and a scalable business model.

• Industries: The program is open to startups across sectors, including fintech, agritech, edtech, green tech, and more.

• Location: While based in Lusaka, the program welcomes applications from startups across Zambia and other African countries.

The program will continue to focus on mentorship, workshops, and access to investment, with an emphasis on fostering collaboration between participants and the broader startup ecosystem.

Mentors and investors play a vital role in the success of the MentorPitch Program, and the initiative actively seeks experienced professionals and committed investors to contribute to its mission. 

Mentors can join by applying through BongoHive or the Zambia Business Angels Network (ZBAN), where they are matched with startups aligned to their expertise in areas such as finance, technology, marketing, or operations. Investors interested in supporting high-potential startups can participate in pitch events organized at the program’s conclusion or become active members of ZBAN, gaining early access to promising startups and networking opportunities with other investors. 

This collaborative model ensures that mentors and investors not only help shape the future of African startups but also gain meaningful engagement and returns from their involvement.

Programs like MentorPitch are crucial for the growth of the African startup ecosystem. By addressing funding gaps, providing mentorship, and connecting startups with innovation hubs and investors, MentorPitch creates a supportive environment for entrepreneurs to thrive.

The program also plays a vital role in building investor confidence in African startups. Through its structured approach and success stories, MentorPitch demonstrates the potential for startups in Zambia and beyond to deliver both financial returns and social impact.

The MentorPitch Program is more than just a mentorship initiative—it is a catalyst for change in Zambia’s entrepreneurial landscape and a model for scaling startups across Africa. By equipping startups with the resources, networks, and knowledge they need to succeed, MentorPitch is paving the way for innovation, economic growth, and global competitiveness.

As applications open for the next cohort, the program invites startups to seize this opportunity to refine their business strategies, secure early-stage funding, and join a thriving community of innovators. For African startups, MentorPitch is not just a program; it is a pathway to transformation and success.

Information Sources:

• MentorPitch YouTube Introduction (Short)

• MentorPitch Program Overview (YouTube)

• TVC Labs - MentorPitch Information

• Zambian Startups Invited to MentorPitch Program

• BongoHive’s MentorPitch Zambia Overview

• MentorPitch Program Invites Applications from Zambian Startups

• The Founder Africa - MentorPitch for Zambian Tech Startups

• ZBAN Invests $5,000 in Astanah Energy

• Zambia Business Angels Network (ZBAN) Official Website