Sustainable Futures
How Young People Can Drive Business Growth, Innovation, and Climate Action
Organized by Zenforward Africa , in collaboration with Partners
Date
28-29 May 2026
Location
Nairobi, Kenya
Expected
2,000+ Attendees
Event Theme
AYBCIF 2026 focuses on the intersection of youth innovation, business development, and climate action. We're bringing together Africa's brightest minds to explore how sustainable business models can drive economic growth while addressing climate challenges.
Day 1
Youth Leadership
Keynotes, panel discussions, and workshops on youth-led innovation
Day 2
Business & Climate
Sustainable business models, investment opportunities, and partnerships
Day 3
Innovation Showcase
Startup pitches, networking, and closing gala dinner
Forum Programme
Three days of inspiration, learning, networking, and celebration.
Registration & Networking Breakfast
Participant check-in and exhibition area opens
Opening Ceremony
Welcome remarks by Chair AYBCIF. Overview of Zen Forward Africa and AYBCIF Vision.
Keynote Address
Positioning Youth at the Centre of Africa's Sustainable Economic Transition. (Govt Rep & UN Partner)
High-Level Panel 1: Policy Dialogue
Youth, Business & Climate: Shaping Africa's New Economic Frontier. (UN experts, Policymakers, Private sector)
Health Break & Exhibition Tour
Panel II: Climate Finance
Climate Finance, Startup Capital & the Path to Green Entrepreneurship
Lunch & Networking
Breakout Sessions
Green Tech, Agri-Tech, Circular Economy (Parallel Tracks)
Youth Leadership Roundtable
Climate governance, policy influence and youth participation
Investor–Innovator Speed Networking
Startup Showcase
A platform for young African innovators to pitch their green business ideas to investors, mentors, and industry leaders.
Application Criteria
- Youth-led startup (founder under 35 years)
- Focus on climate, sustainability, or green innovation
- Registered or operating in Africa
- Scalable business model with measurable impact
- Commitment to attend AYBCIF 2026 in person
What Selected Startups Get
- 1
Pitch to Investors
5-minute pitch opportunity to a panel of top African investors and VCs.
- 2
Exhibition Space
Free booth to showcase your product to over 2000 attendees.
- 3
Mentorship
One-on-one sessions with industry leaders and business coaches.
Past Success Stories
GreenTech Solutions
James Mwangi, Kenya
"Solar-powered irrigation systems for smallholder farmers"
EcoPackage Africa
Fatima Hassan, Tanzania
"Biodegradable packaging from agricultural waste"
CleanWater AI
David Okonkwo, Nigeria
"AI-powered water quality monitoring for rural communities"
Venue
The forum will be held at a premium conference venue in Nairobi, Kenya's vibrant capital city. The location offers state-of-the-art facilities, easy accessibility, and a conducive environment for networking and collaboration.
Address
To be announced
Dates
28th - 29th May 2026
Secure Your Spot
Join 500+ participants at this transformative event.
Limited to 500 slots only.
For speakers, partners, and selected students.
Full access for professionals and general attendees.
What You Get
- 2-day full access to all sessions
- Workshop participation
- Networking sessions with industry leaders
- Certificate of participation
- Innovation Hub showcase access
- Exclusive event materials
Participant Details
Registering as: Invited / Student (Free)