Apply to the African Union Innovation Festival – AU InnoFest’26 ·AU InnoFest’26

Call for Session Proposals: African Union Innovation Festival – AU InnoFest’26

The African Union is inviting innovators, researchers, youth leaders, policymakers, and ecosystem builders to submit session proposals for the African Union Innovation Festival (AU InnoFest’26) — its flagship platform for advancing youth-driven innovation and digital transformation across Africa.

Event Details
Date 29–30 September 2026
Venue AUC Headquarters, Addis Ababa Ethiopia
Theme Vibrant Youth Ecosystems for AI and Digital Sovereignty

About the Festival
AU InnoFest brings together key stakeholders from across the continent to explore cutting-edge ideas, showcase innovations, and co-create solutions that strengthen Africa’s digital future. The 2026 edition will focus on empowering youth-led ecosystems, promoting artificial intelligence development, and advancing Africa’s digital independence and resilience.

Call for Proposals
You are invited to contribute to shaping the festival agenda by submitting a session proposal. This is an opportunity to lead conversations, share expertise, and highlight impactful work in areas such as

Artificial Intelligence and emerging technologies
Digital transformation and innovation ecosystems
Youth empowerment and entrepreneurship
Policy, governance, and digital sovereignty
Tech for development and social impact

Who Should Apply
Youth innovators and tech entrepreneurs
Academics and researchers
Civil society organizations and NGOs
Government representatives and policymakers
Private sector leaders and ecosystem enablers

Why Participate

Gain continental visibility for your ideas and initiatives
Engage with high-level stakeholders and decision-makers
Contribute to shaping Africa’s digital and innovation agenda
Network with diverse actors across the innovation ecosystem

Submission Deadline
11 August 2026

Apply here
Submit Your Proposal⁠

Take advantage of this opportunity to be part of a transformative conversation driving Africa’s innovation and digital future