BUILD 2026 Innovation Expo — Call for Innovators
About this opportunity
BUILD 2026 — Africa's Shared Compute and AI Infrastructure Conference — is hosting an Innovation Expo and inviting African AI startups, builders, developer teams, research teams, students and emerging innovators to showcase AI-powered products and solutions that have moved beyond the idea stage. The expo puts innovators in front of investors, potential customers, partners, policymakers and leaders across Africa's AI ecosystem. Whether you are validating a prototype or growing a live product, BUILD gives you a platform to demonstrate what you are building and open new conversations around it. Selected innovators pitch on the BUILD main stage, demo their product at the BUILD AI Garage, compete for available cash prizes and compute support, connect with investors and potential buyers, and get featured in the Build Innovation Catalogue. Applications take about 10–15 minutes to complete, then go through review and shortlisting before the expo.
Who can apply
- AI startups and product companies
- Independent builders and developer teams
- Research teams and research spin-offs
- Students and emerging innovators
- Founders and early-stage teams anywhere in Africa
- Must have a built and tested AI-powered product, prototype, MVP or solution
- No revenue, customer base or established company required
What you get
- Pitch your innovation on the BUILD main stage
- Live or product demonstration at the BUILD AI Garage
- Compete for cash prizes and compute support opportunities
- Connect with investors, potential buyers, corporate partners, government and development organisations
- Featured in the Build Innovation Catalogue for visibility beyond the conference
- Direct engagement with Africa's AI ecosystem leaders and policymakers
- Application takes only 10–15 minutes to complete
How to apply
- 1Review eligibility
Check that you meet all criteria before starting your application.
- 2Prepare documents
Gather transcripts, recommendation letters, and any required essays or statements.
- 3Submit application
Apply directly through the official link below. Deadline: 21 October 2026.