Sierra Leone is set to host the West Africa Startup World Cup semi-finals on April 11, 2025, at Lagoonda in Aberdeen, Freetown.

This is the first time the event is being held in the country and it comes as part of the launch of Felei TechCity, a new tech hub in Sierra Leone.

Thirty startups will take part in the semi-finals 15 from Sierra Leone and 15 from other West African countries. These startups will pitch their ideas to more than 20 international investors, managing over $10 billion in assets. The winning startup will advance to the global finals in Silicon Valley, where they will compete for a $1 million prize.

Felei TechCity, which was introduced by President Julius Maada Bio during the 2024 SL Innovates Summit, will be located in the Jombohun Community, Tinkonko Chiefdom, in the Bo District. The 130-acre space will include labs, co-working spaces, training centers, and startup accelerators aimed at helping local and regional entrepreneurs grow their businesses.

The semi-finals will give startups from Sierra Leone and West Africa a chance to connect with investors and gain the support needed to take their ideas to the next level. This event marks an important step for Sierra Leone’s growing tech scene, offering more opportunities for local startups to expand.

The West Africa Startup World Cup semi-finals are set to bring together entrepreneurs, investors, and tech enthusiasts for what promises to be a big moment in Sierra Leone’s tech development.