Join the AU-Startups Founder Network.
A private peer community for founders building from or for Africa. Monthly calls, a closed member directory, warm intros across the AU-Startups network, and the kind of founder-to-founder support that rarely fits on a public panel.
Monthly peer calls by stage and sector, a private directory of fellow members, curated warm intros to investors in our network, and practical briefings on fundraising, hiring, and scaling across African markets.
Founders of companies that are live and building — from idea-stage through Series B — with operations anchored in one or more African markets. We prioritise under-represented geographies and first-time founder-led teams.
No fee. The currency is reciprocity: show up for monthly calls when you can, be generous with intros and expertise, and help vet new members when asked. That is the whole contract.
Practical, not performative.
The network is built around three simple rhythms — a monthly all-hands call, small-group circles by stage or sector, and an always-on member channel. Everything else — office hours, pitch reviews, hiring help, investor briefings — is organised on demand by members themselves.
90 minutes, second Thursday of the month. One member presents a live challenge; the room workshops it. No observers, no silent listeners.
Small groups of 6–10 founders at similar stages or in adjacent sectors, meeting on their own cadence, usually every 2–4 weeks.
Private, moderated, built for actual founder work — hiring asks, vendor reviews, investor debriefs, contract questions, and occasional celebrations.
Tell us about you and your company.
Applications are reviewed weekly. The more specific you are about what you need and what you can offer, the better the match.