Innovation Expo
Showcase the African AI ventures building on shared infrastructure
The Innovation Expo at BUILD 2026 puts founders, researchers and product teams in front of the investors, buyers and policymakers shaping the continent’s compute agenda.
Most African AI conversations start with models. BUILD starts with infrastructure — and the Expo exists to prove what becomes possible when African teams get reliable access to it.
Selected innovators receive a showcase slot, exhibition space and curated introductions to the conference’s government, investor and operator delegates. The goal is not just visibility: it is to turn shared compute from a conference theme into a customer, partner or funder.
Two showcase rounds are built into the agenda, each followed by an investor clinic where exhibitors can book short meetings with finance and infrastructure partners. A final reception connects the cohort to ministers, DFIs and the conference’s Continental Partners.
Who should apply
- Startups and scale-ups with an African HQ, founding team or primary market.
- Products or research demonstrably built on, or ready for, shared compute infrastructure.
- Sectors include health, agriculture, finance, logistics, climate, education, public services and language tech.
- Early-stage to Series A welcome; research spin-outs and open-source projects also eligible.
Demo to decision-makers
Pitch in front of ministers, infrastructure operators, DFIs and corporate buyers actively looking for African AI solutions.
Meet investors & partners
Dedicated investor clinic and matchmaking with venture, impact and infrastructure finance participants.
Policy feedback loop
Share what regulators, procurers and standards bodies need to know from founders deploying AI on the continent.
GPU & compute access
Connect with the data centre, cloud and sovereign compute partners building Africa’s shared AI infrastructure.
Tell us what you are building
Applications are reviewed by the programme committee. Shortlisted teams will be contacted for a brief pitch call and to confirm exhibition logistics.
Looking to sponsor the Expo instead?
Partner tiers include a premium Innovation Expo pavilion, delegate passes and co-branded outcomes reporting.
Innovator application
Complete the form below to apply for a showcase slot at the BUILD 2026 Innovation Expo.