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

Overview

The African Union Commission (AUC) is inviting session proposals for the African Union Innovation Festival (AU InnoFest’26), the African Union’s flagship event on youth innovation and digital transformation.

AU InnoFest’26 will take place on 29–30 September 2026 at the African Union Commission Headquarters in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, under the theme “Vibrant Youth Ecosystems for AI and Digital Sovereignty.”

The festival aims to bring together innovators, policymakers, entrepreneurs, researchers, development partners, and youth leaders to advance Africa’s digital transformation agenda.

Objectives

The festival seeks to strengthen youth-led innovation ecosystems that support:

• Africa’s AI capabilities.
• Digital sovereignty.
• Innovation and entrepreneurship.
• Policy dialogue and engagement.
• Strategic partnerships.
• Digital skills development.

The call invites organisations and individuals to contribute sessions that help shape the programme and foster collaboration around these priorities.

Who Can Apply?

The call is open to organisations, institutions, networks, and individuals interested in organising sessions aligned with the objectives of AU InnoFest’26.

Applicants should ensure that proposed sessions contribute to the festival theme and support youth-led innovation and digital transformation across Africa.

Proposal Requirements

Before submitting a proposal, applicants should have the following information for all proposed speakers, moderators, or panellists:

• Full name.
• Job title/designation.
• Email address.

Applicants are also required to obtain the consent of all proposed speakers before submitting their personal information.

Event Details

• Event: African Union Innovation Festival (AU InnoFest’26)
• Theme: Vibrant Youth Ecosystems for AI and Digital Sovereignty
• Date: 29–30 September 2026
• Venue: African Union Commission Headquarters, Addis Ababa, Ethiopia

Data Protection

Personal information submitted through the application process will be used solely for reviewing, evaluating, and administering session proposals. For selected sessions, speaker names, affiliations, biographies, and session descriptions may be published in official AU InnoFest’26 programme materials and promotional communications.

How to Apply

Applicants should submit their session proposal through the official application form after confirming participation and obtaining consent from all proposed speakers. Questions regarding the call or the handling of personal information may be directed to the AU InnoFest’26 Team Lead at [email protected].