The Africa Startup Festival (ASF) Lagos 2025 returns with a clear message: Africa's startup ecosystem is maturing, and the conversation is shifting from hype to execution, governance and sustainable growth.
Held at the Balmoral Convention Center at the Federal Palace, the festival brought together founders, investors, operators and policymakers to examine how African startups can grow responsibly while dealing with capital shortages and market volatility.
Panel sessions discussed topics ranging from venture capital accountability to operational efficiency, logistics infrastructure and cross-border payments. Speakers stressed the importance of building flexible business models rather than chasing valuation milestones.
A key feature of the festival was the Antler Super Day pitch session, where selected startups presented to investors and ecosystem leaders, providing insight into the types of businesses currently emerging in African markets.
ASF's Mentor Hours provided another layer of practical value, enabling attendees to engage in one-on-one sessions with mentors in finance, media, product and strategy. The exhibition space highlighted startups developing solutions for SMEs, digital payments, logistics and education.
The festival concluded with the ASF Night Festival, combining networking with cultural performances, reinforcing the role of the community in Africa's startup journey.
ASF Lagos 2025 reflects the growing focus on substance, collaboration and long-term value creation within Africa's innovation ecosystem.
