Nairobi Skyline
Registration Now Open

Africa Youth, Business &
Climate Innovation Forum

"Sustainable Futures: How Young People Can Drive Business Growth, Innovation, and Climate Action."

28th - 29th May 2026
Nairobi, Kenya

Countdown to AYBCIF 2026

00Days
00Hours
00Minutes
00Seconds
About the Forum

Why AYBCIF 2026 Matters

Bridging the gap between youth potential and sustainable development opportunities across Africa.

Africa Youth Forum Logo

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

Zen Forward Africa+ Other Strategic Partners
Youth Innovation Workshop

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

University & college students
Young entrepreneurs and professionals
Climate activists and innovators
NGOs, corporates, and government agencies
Media and development partners
Event Schedule

Forum Programme

Three days of inspiration, learning, networking, and celebration.

08:00 - 09:00

Registration & Networking Breakfast

Participant check-in and exhibition area opens

09:00 - 09:20

Opening Ceremony

Welcome remarks by Chair AYBCIF. Overview of Zen Forward Africa and AYBCIF Vision.

09:20 - 09:40

Keynote Address

Positioning Youth at the Centre of Africa's Sustainable Economic Transition. (Govt Rep & UN Partner)

10:00 - 11:00

High-Level Panel 1: Policy Dialogue

Youth, Business & Climate: Shaping Africa's New Economic Frontier. (UN experts, Policymakers, Private sector)

11:00 - 11:20

Health Break & Exhibition Tour

11:20 - 12:30

Panel II: Climate Finance

Climate Finance, Startup Capital & the Path to Green Entrepreneurship

12:30 - 13:30

Lunch & Networking

13:30 - 15:00

Breakout Sessions

Green Tech, Agri-Tech, Circular Economy (Parallel Tracks)

15:00 - 16:00

Youth Leadership Roundtable

Climate governance, policy influence and youth participation

16:00 - 17:00

Investor–Innovator Speed Networking

Startup Pitch Contest

Got a Winning Idea?

Pitch your startup idea at AYBCIF 2026 and compete for a chance to win KES 350,000 in total prizes! Whether you're solving climate challenges, driving innovation, or building the next big thing — this is your stage.

Any Startup Idea

From tech to agriculture, climate solutions to fintech — all innovative ideas are welcome.

5-Minute Pitch

Present your vision to industry experts and investors. Make every second count!

Win Big

Walk away with cash prizes, mentorship, and connections to accelerate your startup journey.

Prize Pool

🥇
Grand Prize
KES
200,000

1st Place Winner

🥈
Runner Up
KES
100,000

2nd Place Winner

🥉
Second Runner Up
KES
50,000

3rd Place Winner

Ready to pitch your idea?

Register as a contestant and secure your spot.

Register as Contestant
Partner With Us

Sponsorship Packages

Join leading organizations in supporting Africa's youth climate innovation movement. Choose a package that fits your goals.

Custom Partnership?

Have specific needs? Let's create a tailored partnership that works for your organization.

Contact Our Team
Registration Open

Secure Your Spot

Join 500+ participants at this transformative event.
Limited to 500 slots only.

Invited & Students100 Slots
Free

For speakers, partners, and selected students.

General Delegate400 Slots
Ksh 1,000 / day

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
May 28-29, 2026
Nairobi, Kenya

Participant Details

Registering as: Invited / Student (Free)

By registering, you agree to our Terms of Service and Privacy Policy.