Britam’s BetaLab has announced the launch of the Regional Startup Challenge 2025, a new initiative designed to identify and support growth-stage startups across Rwanda, Tanzania, and Uganda.

The program aims to accelerate East Africa’s digital transformation by fostering collaboration with some of the region’s most promising innovators.

The challenge is targeting established startups that are ready to scale and partner with Britam to shape the future of finance, insurance, health, and other sectors. Eligible companies must be legally registered in Rwanda, Tanzania, or Uganda, have been operational for at least two years, and be at Series B funding stage or beyond, with existing products and established revenue streams.

Solutions spanning fintech, health tech, insurtech, consumer tech, agritech, retail, and supply chain are being sought, particularly those that strengthen the insurance and finance value chain through innovations in distribution, payments, data and AI, underwriting, health and agriculture, retail and supply, or claims processing.

Successful applicants will gain access to a comprehensive growth ecosystem that includes an intensive Venture Development Bootcamp, a 60-day accelerator program featuring close collaboration with Britam’s business units, and an Investor Demo Day where startups can pitch to regional and international investors. Participants will also receive technology credits to support their technical development and scaling efforts.

Speaking about the launch, Britam said the program reflects its long-term vision of enabling innovation and building partnerships that can drive sustainable growth in the region. By combining the resources of a leading financial services provider with the agility of fast-growing startups, the initiative is expected to unlock new solutions that address pressing challenges across industries.

Applications for the BetaLab Regional Startup Challenge 2025 are now open and will close on Tuesday, September 30, 2025. Interested startups can apply through the official application portal here.