09 Apr From Cape Town to Techstars: A Biotech Founder’s Playbook for Global Acceleration

Here’s a real question: what does it take for a South African biotech start-up to go global –  and not just survive, but actually thrive?

Well, if you’ve ever found yourself thinking about joining an international accelerator like Techstars, you’re not alone.

At the core of this has been collaboration, a word that gets tossed around a lot in the start-up world. We hear it at pitch nights, on panel discussions –  heck, it’s almost become background noise.

But the actual steps to meaningful, strategic collaboration – especially when you’re scaling from Cape Town to the global stage –  that part? Not always so clear.

That’s why we were especially excited to host a masterclass with Dr. Diego Castillo, co-founder at Biomine Health, who is dedicated to translating biotech innovation into groundbreaking global healthcare solutions.

The energy in the auditorium was electric – packed with curious minds – all eager to hear firsthand how a local company took the leap and joined Techstars, one of the world’s most competitive accelerator programs.

Techstars isn’t just a fancy name. It’s also serious business on the continent right now. It’s known for turning early-stage companies into globally scalable ventures by providing funding, mentorship, and access to a worldwide network.

Dr. Castillo, along with his co-founder Vaughn Barendsen, got accepted into Techstars London, one of the most prestigious accelerator programs in the world. And he’ll be the first to tell you, it changed everything.

“The name of the game is early exposure. If you can learn faster, the better. Apply to accelerators early in your business. Don’t wait until you’ve got it all figured out.”

And that’s the part we don’t talk about enough; the power of showing up before you’re “ready.”

Techstars is doubling down on Africa

In the first half of 2024, it was ranked the second-most active investor in Africa, closing nine deals – that’s 32% of the 28 deals it made globally in that period.

That’s on top of their massive 2023, where Techstars made 56 investments in Africa. That’s more than one per week, officially making them the most active investor in the region.

But here’s the thing Castillo really emphasized: choosing the right accelerator isn’t just about prestige. It’s about alignment. Not all programs fit every founder, every business or every stage of growth.

Especially in biotech, where the timelines are longer, the stakes are higher, and the needs are very specific.

“Validate your products over and over again. At Biomine, we’ve processed more than 30,000 samples. That kind of scale, that kind of scientific momentum, was capable within a quarter, all thanks to the infrastructure and support provided by Techstars”.

Too often, start-ups hesitate, thinking they need a polished product or proven revenue before stepping into global rooms. But according to Castillo, getting in early is the key to accelerating your learning curve – and, in turn, your impact.

One of the most powerful moments of the masterclass came when an attendee asked:

“What’s the goal now – after Techstars? How do you apply what you learned in London to South Africa?”

And Castillo’s answer? Gold.

“You don’t wait to apply what you’ve learned. You carry your mission with you the entire way. It’s all about keeping your why front and center.

Because the biggest mistake founders make? Treating global accelerators like escape hatches instead of stepping stones.

So if you’re a South African founder with global ambitions, here’s your Biomine-inspired playbook:

1. Start with your why. Be crystal clear about your purpose before applying anywhere.
2. Do the homework. Look for accelerators that fit your industry and stage.
3. Build with intention. Don’t lose your identity trying to fit someone else’s mold.
4. Plan your return. Think about how global insights feed back into your local market.
5. Stay connected. Global doesn’t mean distant. Find a way to loop in the ties you’ve made.

Africa isn’t a footnote in the global innovation story anymore and Biotech is one of South Africa’s most promising frontiers. And as Biomine’s journey proves, the world isn’t just watching – it’s opening the door.

So if you’re thinking of taking your start-up global? Do it with clarity, do it with community – and above all, do it with purpose.

Thank you to our current student intern from the University of Cape Town Christina Yasini for the great article.