About the Forum
Bridging the gap between youth, business, and climate action
Why AYBCIF 2026 Matters
Bridging the gap between youth potential and sustainable development opportunities across Africa.
Zen Forward Africa
The driving force behind AYBCIF
Our Vision
A sustainable, innovative, and inclusive Africa powered by youth-driven solutions and forward-thinking partnerships.
Our Mission
To empower young people and communities across Africa through entrepreneurship, climate innovation, capacity-building, and strategic collaboration between youth, businesses, policymakers, and development partners.
Background & Rationale
Kenya's Youth are at the centre of shaping the country's economic, social and environmental future. With over 70% of the population under 35, young people play a pivotal role in entrepreneurship, innovation and climate action.
However, many young people lack access to platforms where they can connect with experts, policymakers, NGOs and the private sector. This forum will bridge that gap by creating a multi-stakeholder dialogue on how youth can be empowered to build businesses, drive green innovation and actively participate in climate solutions.
Organized In Partnership With
Our Objectives
- 1To inspire and equip youth with knowledge on entrepreneurship, innovation and climate action.
- 2To provide a platform for dialogue, mentorship and networking between youth, corporates, NGOs and policymakers.
- 3To raise awareness of the interconnection between business growth and environmental sustainability.
- 4To showcase youth-led innovations and green startups.
Expected Outcomes
- Strengthened youth knowledge and capacity in business and climate solutions
- Partnerships between youth, corporates, and NGOs for sustainable projects
- Practical takeaways for youth to launch or scale green businesses
- A stronger youth network engaged in climate advocacy and innovation
Target Audience
Our Vision
To create a platform where African youth can engage with business leaders and climate experts to drive sustainable innovation and economic growth across the continent.
Our Purpose
AYBCIF exists to empower the next generation of African leaders with the knowledge, networks, and resources needed to build sustainable businesses that address climate challenges while creating economic opportunities.
The Missing Link: Youth × Business × Climate
While youth are passionate about climate action and entrepreneurs are driving business innovation, these forces rarely converge effectively. AYBCIF bridges this gap by creating a dynamic ecosystem where young innovators meet established business leaders to co-create sustainable solutions.
Youth Energy
Fresh perspectives, digital fluency, and passion for change
Business Expertise
Resources, experience, and market access for scaling solutions
Climate Urgency
Actionable frameworks for sustainable growth and impact
Forum Background
The Africa Youth, Business & Climate Innovation Forum (AYBCIF) was established in response to the growing need for intergenerational collaboration in addressing Africa's most pressing challenges: youth unemployment, economic development, and climate change.
Since its inception, AYBCIF has brought together thousands of young innovators, business leaders, policymakers, and climate experts from across the continent and beyond. Our forums have catalyzed partnerships, launched ventures, and influenced policy decisions that promote sustainable development.
The 2026 edition marks a significant milestone as we expand our focus to include more hands-on innovation showcases, startup pitch competitions, and direct investment opportunities for climate-focused ventures led by African youth.