CIMA Launches Lions' Lair Africa Innovation Challenge
The new competition offers entrepreneurs a platform to secure investment and mentorship at the ENGAGE Africa conference.
Updated on Oct. 21, 2026 in Investing
Live Poll
Do you believe startup pitch competitions are effective at helping new businesses succeed long-term?
The Chartered Institute of Management Accountants has launched the Lions' Lair Africa innovation challenge to support sustainability-focused businesses. Finalists will pitch their ventures live to investors and judges for a chance to win a $25,000 investment.
Why it matters
Many entrepreneurs across Africa face significant barriers to accessing the capital and strategic support necessary to scale their companies. This platform bridges that gap by connecting high-growth businesses with investors, commercial credibility, and mentorship.
The winning venture will receive a $25,000 investment offer to support business growth. More than 300 finance leaders and investors are expected to attend the live pitching event.
The players
Chartered Institute of Management Accountants
This is a global professional accounting body that provides training and certification for management accountants.
Corton Investments
This investment firm serves as a partner for the Lions' Lair Africa competition to support local venture growth.
CPA.com
A subsidiary of the American Institute of CPAs, this organization provides business and technology solutions for the accounting profession.
Sage
This multinational enterprise software company provides financial, HR, and payroll solutions to small and medium-sized businesses.
The details
Finalists will present their business models to a panel of senior judges during the ENGAGE Africa 2026 conference in Cape Town. Entries are evaluated on three primary metrics: scalability, business potential, and sustainable impact.
Timeline
October 29, 2026: Finalists pitch at the ENGAGE Africa conference
Market Dynamics
The initiative follows a growing trend of professional bodies creating dedicated platforms to address capital gaps in emerging markets. By integrating with the ENGAGE Africa 2026 conference, the program aligns with broader efforts to institutionalize venture funding across the continent.
The initiative provides institutional and private investors with direct access to pre-vetted, high-potential startups operating in African markets. Attendees can observe pitch strategies and business viability assessments live during the final conference event.
The takeaway
This competition highlights the critical role of professional mentorship in transforming early-stage business concepts into scalable enterprises. Entrepreneurs looking to participate in future cycles should focus on quantifying their sustainability impact alongside financial growth projections.
Further reading
For more information on similar initiatives, visit the Investing section.
More information
View full details and program criteria on the Lions' Lair Africa information page.
Live Poll
Do you believe startup pitch competitions are effective at helping new businesses succeed long-term?
