CALL FOR INNOVATORS
Bring Your Innovation to Build
Showcase what you have built. Connect with the people who can help it grow.
Build 2026 is 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.
You built it. Now bring it to Build.
The Build Innovation Expo creates a platform for innovators to put their work 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 an opportunity to demonstrate what you are building and open new conversations around it.
If you have built it, we want to see it.
We are looking for innovators who have built and tested an AI-powered product, prototype, MVP, or solution.
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
Eligibility note: You do not need significant revenue, a large customer base, or an established company to apply. However, applications based solely on an idea or concept without a demonstrable product, prototype, or proof of concept will not be considered for the Innovation Showcase.
Pitch
Pitch your innovation on the Build stage and put your solution before an audience of ecosystem leaders and decision-makers.
Demo
Show what you have built through a live or product demonstration at the Build AI Garage.
Compete
Compete for available cash prizes and compute support opportunities.
Connect
Engage investors, potential buyers, corporate partners, government, development organisations, and other ecosystem stakeholders.
Showcase
Have your innovation featured in the Build Innovation Catalogue and gain visibility beyond the conference.
Build Impact
Bring practical AI solutions to real African challenges and connect with opportunities to test, improve, and scale your work.
Tell us what you are building
- The problem your innovation solves
- How your solution works and where AI fits in
- Your current product stage and testing experience
- Users, customers, traction, or early validation where available
- Your target market and growth opportunity
- What support or connections would help you move forward
What happens after you apply?
Step 1 — Apply: Submit your innovation through the application form.
Step 2 — Review: Applications will be reviewed by the Build programme team based on the information submitted.
Step 3 — Shortlist: Selected innovators will be contacted with details on the relevant showcase opportunity and next steps.
Step 4 — Build: Selected innovators showcase their work, connect with ecosystem stakeholders, and participate in the opportunities available to them.
Innovator application
Complete the application below to be considered for the BUILD 2026 Innovation Expo. The application helps us understand your product, its current stage, traction, market opportunity, and the opportunities that would be most valuable to you at BUILD.
Connect beyond the showcase.
Selected innovators may have opportunities to engage investors, potential buyers, corporate innovation teams, government, development organisations, technical partners, and other ecosystem stakeholders.
Looking to support the Innovation Expo?
Partner with Build 2026 to support African innovation and connect with the builders shaping practical AI solutions across the continent.