British-Ghanaian entrepreneur David Boadu’s Vistella Cycling has won the 2026 AXA Startup Angel competition, securing £25,000 to accelerate the growth of its cycling safety business.
Vistella Cycling develops high-visibility cycling products designed to help riders stay safer and more visible on busy urban roads. Its current range includes reflective gloves and backpacks, while the company plans to expand its product offering with a reflective jacket.
The AXA Startup Angel prize also gives Boadu access to mentoring from AXA’s startup network and a year of business insurance, providing additional support as Vistella moves into its next phase of growth.
For Black and Brown entrepreneurs, the award shows how startup competitions can provide access to capital, mentorship and industry networks without relying solely on traditional venture capital.
As cycling safety and urban mobility become more important across UK cities, Vistella’s focus on visibility positions the company in a growing market.
