African Startups
Empowering Africa Through Startups Innovation
The Deep Learning Indaba is Africa’s premier gathering dedicated to advancing Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning research, innovation, and collaboration across the continent. As part of the Research in Africa Days at Deep Learning Indaba 2026 in Nigeria, we are excited to invite African startups to participate in the African Startup Track.
Are you a startup leveraging AI, Machine Learning, or Deep Learning to solve real-world problems in Africa? Do you want to pitch your idea, showcase your product, connect with sponsors, researchers, and fellow innovators, and gain visibility on a continental stage?
Then this call is for you.
Why Participate
Selected startups will have the opportunity to take part in one or more of the following activities during Deep Learning Indaba 2026
Startup Pitch Session (Early-Stage Startups)
Pitch your startup in front of Deep Learning Indaba sponsors and partners.
Receive feedback, mentorship interest, and potential follow-up discussions.
Dedicated 1-hour shared session in the official Indaba program.
African Startups Showcase
Present your startup through lightning talks.
Participate in a panel discussion on building, scaling, and sustaining AI startups in Africa.
Engage with researchers, practitioners, and ecosystem builders.
Startup Exhibition & Mentorship Zone
Showcase your solution at a startup booth space.
Network directly with conference participants.
Benefit from peer mentorship, including interactions with more advanced African startups.
Startup Elevator Pitch Video
Selected startups will submit a short elevator pitch video (60–90 seconds).
Videos will be Played during Indaba week and Published on the Deep Learning Indaba YouTube and communication channels after the event.
Gain long-term visibility beyond the conference.
Who Should Apply
Africa-Based
Startups based in or operating in Africa.
AI-Driven
startups using AI, Machine Learning, or Deep Learning meaningfully in their products or services.
Impact-Focused
Startups addressing real-world challenges in sectors such as health, agriculture, climate and energy, education, finance, logistics, creative industries, and public services
All Stages
Startups at any stage, from early-stage (MVP) to scaling startups
.
Key Dates for Submission
Mark your calendars with these essential deadlines to ensure your submission is considered for review.
February 18, 2026
Applications Open
March 20, 2026
Applications close
May 4, 2026
Notification of Selection
June 1, 2026
Acceptance of invitation
What’s in It for Startups?
Startups are a vital part of Africa’s AI ecosystem, and the Deep Learning Indaba provides a unique platform to accelerate your growth.
By participating, you gain direct access to a vibrant community of researchers, investors, industry leaders, and ecosystem builders.
Here’s what you can expect as a startup at the Indaba:
- Visibility at Africa’s largest AI gathering
- Pitching and exhibition opportunities
- Networking with: AI researchers, industry leaders, sponsors and ecosystem partners
- Opportunities for mentorship and collaboration
- Increased exposure through recorded and online content
Join Us in Nigeria
Be part of Deep Learning Indaba 2026, connect with Africa’s growing AI community, and showcase how your startup is contributing to the continent’s innovation ecosystem.
For questions or further information, please contact: riad@deeplearningindaba.com or volviane@deeplearningindaba.com
Let’s innovate, collaborate, and build Africa’s AI future together.