NAIROBI, Kenya- A new pan-African innovation platform aimed at elevating emerging tech entrepreneurs has been launched ahead of the upcoming Africa Forward Summit in Nairobi.
Dubbed Nova Garage, the initiative is spearheaded by the French-African Foundation and the Autonomous Advancement Initiative, in partnership with Concerto and Nuvision.
The platform will debut during the Africa Forward Summit scheduled for May 11–12, 2026, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, corporate leaders and policymakers to advance innovation across the continent.
The initiative is being rolled out under the high patronage of President William Ruto, underscoring Kenya’s positioning as a key driver of Africa’s digital economy.
Spotlight on young innovators
Nova Garage will feature a curated cohort of 15 entrepreneurs under the age of 35, selected through a pan-African call for applications.
Organisers say the platform is designed to showcase cutting-edge African solutions across sectors such as energy, agriculture, mobility and finance—areas seen as critical to the continent’s future growth.
Selected participants will gain exposure to an international audience of investors and business leaders attending the summit, offering opportunities for funding, partnerships and scale.
Nairobi’s rising tech influence
The launch of Nova Garage in Nairobi highlights the city’s growing reputation as Africa’s “Silicon Savannah,” driven by a vibrant startup ecosystem and increasing investor interest.
Kenya currently hosts hundreds of active startups and continues to attract significant venture capital, particularly in fintech and cleantech, reinforcing its role as a regional innovation hub.
Organisers say the initiative will also deepen economic and technological ties between African countries and France, fostering cross-continental collaboration in innovation and enterprise.
Beyond the summit
While the platform will debut in Nairobi, Nova Garage is designed as a long-term ecosystem to support African entrepreneurs through visibility, networking and strategic partnerships.
It also introduces a broader framework aimed at strengthening Africa’s position in emerging technologies, including artificial intelligence, by promoting sovereignty and co-ownership of critical digital infrastructure.
Call for applications
Applications are open to African entrepreneurs under 35 with solutions beyond the idea stage, including functional prototypes ready for demonstration.
Candidates are required to submit proof of incorporation or business structure, along with a business plan or impact metrics for social enterprises.
Speaking on the initiative, Abraham Korir Sing’Oei said it was time to shift focus to those actively building Africa’s future.
“We have spent decades speaking for Africa’s future. Perhaps it is time we made room for those who are actually building it,” he said.
The deadline for applications is April 23, 2026, with selected innovators set to take center stage at one of Africa’s most anticipated tech gatherings.
