Kick off the conference with inspiration and excitement

Join fellow attendees in celebrating the start of the conference with an inspiring speech highlighting the conference’s vision and agenda. Discover what’s in store over the next two days and network with like-minded individuals to set the stage for meaningful connections.

Tailored Strategies for Local Changemakers

Local changemakers are the backbone of community development and inclusive innovation, but supporting innovators in grassroots environments requires a unique approach. This masterclass, sponsored by TIA, will explore the complexities of fostering innovation in local spaces, where conventional strategies may not apply.

Participants will learn how to develop and implement tailored frameworks that address the specific dynamics of these communities. The session will cover the importance of gaining buy-in from local leaders, such as traditional chiefs and authorities, and the need to consider local skill gaps and cultural nuances. Experts will share practical programmes and strategies that have successfully empowered local changemakers, driving sustainable development and creating inclusive innovation ecosystems.

Dive into how a leading city, such as Cape Town, is utilising next-gen technologies and data-driven solutions to spearhead its digital transformation. This session will spotlight innovative projects and improved governmental-business communications that are setting the standard for cities worldwide.

As the global investment landscape undergoes rapid changes, limited partners (LPs) are adapting their mandates to stay ahead. This panel will explore the evolving dynamics that are influencing LP decisions in today’s market. Key questions include: How are sectoral and geographical focuses shifting? What impact do specialist funds have on attracting LP interest? And crucially, how can African fund managers maintain and grow their relationships with international investors, particularly in a climate where many are pulling back from the continent?

Our expert panel, comprising seasoned fund managers and LP representatives, will provide strategic insights into navigating these challenges. The discussion will cover the latest trends in LP mandates, strategies for aligning with LP priorities, and practical advice on how African fund managers can retain and attract international capital in this shifting environment.

The global narratives around climate, Africa, and recently, VC, have been similar- negative, despairing, and one-sided. As Southern Africa’s leading climate tech investor with global experience and local knowledge, Holocene Ventures is focused on revealing- and helping to build- a different story for the sector, continent, and investment potential. Learn about what others in the global north don’t know- and can’t see- regarding the potential of climate tech in Africa, as well as an honest assement and way forward on current challenges.

Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Environmental Resilience

The global adoption of generative AI presents a massive opportunity to combine climate positivity with scalable, software-led business models. Across Africa AI has the potential to transform industries by turning data into money and carbon saving insights. Sectors such as energy efficiency, grid optimisation, demand management, virtual power plant and precision agriculture all stand to benefit from AI. This panel will discuss the opportunities to bring together transformative technologies with locally sourced solutions implemented by African entrepreneurs.

Africa presents immense investment opportunities, yet these are often accompanied by unique challenges that require strategic de-risking approaches. This panel will explore practical solutions for minimizing risk while maximizing returns in the African investment landscape. Key topics include accelerating exit strategies, fostering robust ecosystems that support long-term growth, and leveraging intermediaries like venture capital firms to bridge investment between Africa and other regions, particularly the United States.

Our expert panelists, consisting of experienced investors, fund managers, and ecosystem builders, will share insights into the most effective strategies for de-risking investments on the continent. The discussion will cover the creation of cross-continental investment bridges, the role of VCs in de-risking and scaling ventures, and the key levers for ensuring successful exits in African markets.

The Johannesburg Stock Exchange (JSE) is a cornerstone of South Africa’s financial ecosystem and has become a key player in accelerating the growth of startups toward Initial Public Offerings (IPOs). This keynote will delve into the JSE’s role in transforming the landscape for emerging companies, providing startups with the tools, resources, and support they need to scale and list on the exchange.
Participants will gain deep insights into the entire IPO process, from preparing a startup for listing to meeting the JSE’s criteria for potential listings. The session will also explore how the JSE’s strategic initiatives are designed to foster startup growth, enhance visibility, and attract significant investor interest. Additionally, the discussion will unpack the broader concept of acceleration, holistically covering the different dimensions of preparing a startup for IPO beyond financial readiness, including team development, governance, and strategic growth milestones.