The NBPA x UM6P Innovation Challenge JumpShot is a pan-African entrepreneurship program designed to identify, support, and accelerate high-potential startups solving critical social and environmental challenges across the continent. Through a competitive selection process, promising founders gain access to a 3-month virtual accelerator, strategic mentorship, exposure to industry leaders, and connections to resources that can strengthen their business models and growth pathways. With USD 160,000 in equity-free cash prizes awarded to 6 winners, JumpShot gives African founders a platform to scale their impact and take their ventures to the next level.
Equity-free Prize Breakdown (6 winners, Total USD 160,000)
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We are looking for startups that are:
Legally registered and operating in one or more eligible countries
product is live in-market with real users or customers
Such as at least one of- revenue (preferred), paid pilots/contracts or active usage with credible adoption evidence
Solving a real world social or environmental problem with measurable results for a clearly defined user group
Clearly defined user group; specify users using at least two of the following:
Role/profile (farmers, patients, retailers)
Country/region/city or urban/rural
Shared constraint (off-grid, chronic disease, no access to finance)
Hospitals, Schools, SMEs, Cooperatives ...
Low-income households, Micro-enterprises
The Impact Investment Accelerator is designed for growth-stage startups that demonstrate high potential for scalability, financial sustainability, and measurable social and environmental impact. Here are the key eligibility and selection criteria for applicants :
Key Dates
Common Questions We Get
The NBPA Foundation and OCP Group- UM6P join forces to support entrepreneurial initiatives in Africa, providing funding and growth opportunities for local businesses. Together, they empower startups and drive sustainable impact across the continent.
The National Basketball Players Association (NBPA) is the union for current professional basketball players in the National Basketball Association (NBA). Established in 1954, the NBPA’s mission is to protect and advance the rights of our players. They are the game. Funding for Jump Shot is provided by the NBPA Foundation, which is dedicated to preserving the legacy of its members by supporting and assisting people, communities and organizations worldwide. It spotlights and amplifies the global initiatives of professional basketball players, driving positive change through community building, charitable endeavors and social entrepreneurship. For more information, visit www.nbpa.com and follow @thenbpa on social.
University Mohammed VI Polytechnic (UM6P) is a Moroccan university focusing on developing solutions to specific continental and more broadly global challenges. UM6P is oriented towards education and research, with strong links to industry, business, and innovation. The university commits itself to empowering a new generation of talents that will build and lead the future of Africa. For more information please visit: https://www.um6p.ma/en