Young innovators, researchers, entrepreneurs, policymakers, educators and organisations working in Africa’s digital transformation space are invited to submit session proposals for the African Union Innovation Festival (AU InnoFest’26). The festival offers an opportunity to shape discussions on artificial intelligence, digital innovation and youth-led development across the continent.
Scheduled for September 29–30, 2026, at the African Union Commission Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, the festival will be held under the theme “Vibrant Youth Ecosystems for AI and Digital Sovereignty.”
About the Programme
The African Union Innovation Festival (AU InnoFest’26) is the African Union’s flagship convening on youth innovation and digital transformation.
The 2026 edition aims to strengthen youth-led ecosystems that advance Africa’s artificial intelligence capabilities and digital sovereignty through innovation, policy engagement, partnerships and skills development.
The African Union is inviting individuals and organisations to propose sessions that contribute to the festival programme.
Session Formats
Applicants may submit proposals for a range of session formats, including:
- Panel discussions
- Fireside chats
- Lightning talks
- Interactive workshops
- Masterclasses
- Startup pitch sessions
- Innovation showcases
- Design sprints
- Birds of a Feather discussions
Session Tracks
Proposals should align with one or more of the festival’s focus areas, including:
- Digital Public Infrastructure (DPI)
- AI Innovation and Entrepreneurship
- Digital Infrastructure and Trust
- Data Governance and Responsible AI
- Youth Skills and Future Jobs
- Gender and Inclusive Innovation
- Research, Indigenous Knowledge and Emerging Technologies
- Youth Leadership
- Innovation Showcases and Recognition
- Youth Participation
- Digital Rights and the Future African Youth Charter
Who Can Apply
The call is open to individuals and organisations with relevant expertise and ideas that contribute to the festival’s theme and session tracks.
Before submitting a proposal, applicants should have the following information ready:
- Names of all speakers, moderators or panellists
- Their job titles or designations
- Their email addresses
