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Afreximbank has selected eight African startups for the inaugural edition of its acceleration programme, aimed at boosting innovation to support intra-African trade. The startups were chosen from more than 1,600 applicants and are based in countries including Nigeria, Egypt, Ethiopia and Côte d’Ivoire. Participants will take part in a three-month mentoring and training programme and will gain access to the bank’s network, as well as potential equity investment.
Google has opened applications for the 10th cohort of its Google for Startups Accelerator Africa, now focused specifically on artificial intelligence. The 12-week hybrid program targets Series A startups based in Africa or developing solutions for the continent. Selected founders will receive equity-free support, Google Cloud credits, mentorship from AI experts and exclusive access to investors. Applications are open until Wednesday, March 18.
From April 7-9, 2026, Morocco will host GITEX AFRICA, the continent’s premier summit on technology, startups and digital policy. Centered on the theme “AI for Inclusive Transformation,” the event will bring together government officials, investors and tech leaders to examine key pillars of the digital economy, including connectivity, cybersecurity, smart cities and the rapid rise of African fintech.
The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) has launched Get Ready 4 Timbuktoo EdTech, a three-month online incubation programme for African EdTech startups with working prototypes. Up to 50 startups will receive tailored diagnostics, specialised training modules, weekly mentoring, access to grants, and entry into the Timbuktoo network. Applications are open across Africa until February 18, 2026.
Egypt will host the inaugural AI Everything MEA summit on Feb. 11-12 at the Egypt International Exhibition Center, in what organizers describe as a major regional event focused on artificial intelligence. Backed by President Abdel Fattah al-Sisi, the summit will bring together more than 350 companies and institutions from across the Middle East and Africa to discuss infrastructure, governance and investment.
Wema Bank is now accepting applications for its Hackaholics Accelerator 2026, aimed at Nigerian tech startups that have been operating for at least two years and are already generating revenue. The programme offers mentorship, technical support and access to investors and corporate partners, as well as guidance on scaling up. Founders are required to participate for the full duration of the hybrid programme and apply through the bank’s online portal.
VivaTech is now accepting applications for its AfricaTech Awards, which recognise some of the continent’s most innovative startups. Six finalists will pitch in Paris on June 17-20, 2026, ahead of the global awards ceremony. The competition is open to startups headquartered in Africa that have raised at least $150,000 in funding. Applications close on February 16.
The Tony Elumelu Foundation is now accepting applications for the latest round of its entrepreneurship programme. The initiative offers African entrepreneurs 12 weeks of online training, mentorship and $5,000 in seed funding. Successful applicants will also gain access to the foundation’s network and further financing opportunities. Applications close on March 1.
CivicHive has launched its 2026 Civic Tech Fellowship, a 20-week program designed to support 15 West African innovators building tech-driven solutions for civic engagement. Projects focused on responsible AI, climate action, healthcare, or advocacy will receive expert mentorship, monthly stipends, and access to a powerful regional network. Applications are open until February 11 for those looking to turn bold ideas into lasting social impact.
The 2026 UN Global Pulse Accelerator is now supporting teams with proven, implementation-ready innovative solutions. Three selected projects will each receive $60,000 in funding, alongside technical support and mentorship to scale and measure their impact. The program is seeking initiatives that leverage data or AI to advance sustainable development, humanitarian action, and social inclusion. Applications are open through February 11, 2026.
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Heifer International has launched the 2026 AYuTe Nigeria challenge, a competition awarding $40,000 in grants to climate-smart agritech solutions. The grand prize winner will receive $20,000, with second and third place taking home $12,000 and $8,000, respectively. Beyond the funding, these young innovators transforming Nigerian agriculture will receive professional mentorship. The grand finale is set for May 2026 in Abuja.
Cape Town will host the Africa Green Economy Summit 2026 from February 24-27. Centered on the theme "From Ambition to Action," the summit connects decision-makers with investors to accelerate green and blue projects. With a focus on closing the climate funding gap, the event will feature 50 bankable projects in sectors like renewables, sustainable farming, and electric mobility.
Applications are open for the 2026 Female Founder Award, a global programme recognising women-led tech startups. Held during Viva Technology in Paris, the competition offers winners greater exposure, mentorship and support in raising funds. Applications close on Feb. 2, 2026, and selected finalists will be presented at the event.
The ICT Africa Summit, a flagship event on innovation, digital transformation and connectivity, will return for its sixth edition on April 21-23, 2026, at the SAFEX Exhibition Center in Algiers. The summit will bring together policymakers, companies, startups and investors, with the aim of supporting a more inclusive and sustainable digital ecosystem across Africa. Following the 2025 edition, this year’s event will highlight innovation and cross-border collaboration to speed up the continent’s digital transformation.