1. What is the timbuktoo ManuTech Accelerator Programme? 

The Accelerator Programme supports earlystage manufacturing and manufacturing technology startups across Africa to strengthen their business models, build investment readiness, and gain access to technical guidance, expert mentors, and catalytic funding of USD 20,000. 

2. How many startups were selected? 

In 2025, 67 startups from the bootcamp and incubation cohorts became eligible for the acceleration phase after completing all requirements. From these, the top 20 highest-scoring startups were selected to advance to the acceleration programme. 

3. How were startups evaluated for the Accelerator Programme? 

The eligible startups made a 10-minute pitch and submitted deliverables. A standard scoring system (out of a total 100 points) was used to assess each venture on: 

• Clarity of problem and solution 

• Understanding of target market and competitiveness 

• Strength and feasibility of the business model 

• Financial viability and investment readiness 

• Team capacity and operational execution 

• Growth potential and scalability 

• Quality of submitted materials (roadmaps, operational plans, financials, etc.) 

4. What score was required to qualify? 

Startups need a minimum score of 60% to be eligible for the accelerator phase. This score corresponds to a business that has achieved product-market fit, validated key assumptions, and is operationally ready for investment.  

From the startups that have scored 60% and above, the top 20 highest-scoring startups were selected for the acceleration program. 
 

5. Who evaluated the startups? 

Startups were evaluated by independent experts from across Africa’s investment, entrepreneurship, innovation, and technology ecosystems.   

6. Why would a startup that received positive feedback not be selected? 

Each startup is provided with feedback from the panel on the pitch day to help founders identify areas of strength and where they can improve. The final selection of the 20 startups with the highest score is based on the total weighted score of their pitch and submitted documents 

7. What opportunities exist for startups that were not selected? 

Those who are not part of the highest-scoring 20 startups remain part of the wider timbuktoo alumni and can still benefit from future webinars, events, and community programmes that will be shared as they arise.