# Global startup accelerator application cycles

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/global-startup-accelerator-application-cycles
> Updated: 2026-10-13T10:07:49.000Z. Sources: 10. Developments: 2.

Various startup accelerator programs have announced application windows for upcoming cohorts. In September 2026, SiGMA Africa opened applications for its 2027 Africa Startup Pitch in Cape Town, focusing on sectors like fintech, artificial intelligence, and blockchain. Simultaneously, the UK-based Catalyst accelerator announced its spring 2027 programme at Southampton Science Park, offering mentoring and workshops to help founders secure investment.

By October 2026, the Her Startup accelerator launched applications for its second cohort, specifically targeting technology-enabled businesses led by women in Africa. This initiative, supported by the KSH Foundation, Tomorrow Foundation, and EHA Impact Ventures, aims to address the funding gap where African women founders secured less than 1% of the $2 billion raised by continental startups in 2025. The programme provides a 12-week curriculum, stipends, and opportunities to pitch for seed investment of up to $5,000.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-13: Saudi Arabia leads MENA startup funding rebound in Q3 2026

MENA startup funding rose 108 percent to $1.65 billion in Q3 2026, led by Saudi Arabian fintech deals including Barq and Tabby.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/her-startup-accelerator-opens-applications-for-african-women-entrepreneurs

### 2026-09-14: Startup accelerators announce new application windows for 2027

New application windows have opened for startup accelerators: SiGMA Africa's 2027 pitch competition in Cape Town and the UK-based Catalyst programme at Southampton Science Park.

2 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/startup-accelerators-announce-new-application-windows-for-2027

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Cite as: Global startup accelerator application cycles. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/global-startup-accelerator-application-cycles