Programs
Call for Startups
Present your innovation on East Africa's premier industrial electronics stage.
Proudly sponsored by IEEE IES Hubs & Nodes
Learn MoreAbout the Startup Showcase
The IEEE IES East Africa Innovation Summit 2026 is inviting innovative startups to apply for a dedicated pitching slot at the main event. This is a rare opportunity to present your product or idea to a curated audience of engineers, industry leaders, investors, policy makers, and technology professionals from across six East African countries and beyond.
Selected startups will be given a 7-minute pitching slot on the main stage on Friday, 29 May 2026, in Nairobi, Kenya. This is more than visibility — it is a launchpad into a network of technical and business leaders who are actively shaping Africa's industrial future.
🚀 Several startups will be selected for the showcase. Each receives a 7-minute live pitch opportunity at the summit.
Who Should Apply
We are looking for startups working at the intersection of technology and industrial challenge — particularly in areas such as:
- Smart manufacturing and Industry 4.0 / 5.0
- Renewable energy and clean power systems
- E-mobility and sustainable transport
- AgriTech and smart agriculture
- HealthTech and medical infrastructure
- AI, IoT, and edge computing for industry
- Climate change and sustainability solutions
- Digital twins and industrial automation
Applications are open to startups at any stage — pre-seed through Series A — operating in or serving East African markets.
Application Timeline
6 April – 24 April 2026
Expression of Interest
Submit your expression of interest to be considered for the startup showcase.
25 April – 30 April 2026
Application Review
The selection committee reviews all submissions against innovation, impact, and relevance criteria.
5 May 2026
Notification of Acceptance
Selected startups are notified and provided with participation details.
29 May 2026
Showcase at the Summit
Each selected startup presents a 7-minute pitch at the IEEE IES East Africa Industrial Innovation Summit 2026.
Ready to Apply?
Submit your expression of interest using the link below. For any questions, reach out directly to our team.