Latitude59 Kenya’s 2026 Pitch Competition has attracted a record 509 applications from startups across 25 countries, nearly doubling last year’s submissions as the technology and investment conference expands its reach across Africa.
The competition will select 10 finalists to pitch at the Latitude59 Kenya Edition 2026, scheduled for December 3–4 in Nairobi.
Krista Meinarde, Latitude59’s Head of Investor-Startup Relations, said e-commerce and retail startups account for the largest share of applications, followed by strong representation from fintech, agritech, foodtech and artificial intelligence companies.
The competition has also attracted startups developing workflow and productivity tools. Although most applicants are at an early stage, 43% are already generating monthly revenue, highlighting the commercial traction among this year’s applicants.
Kenya accounts for approximately two-thirds of all applications from Africa, with the remaining submissions coming from East, West and Southern Africa, as well as Central and North Africa.
The 10 selected finalists will receive professional pitch training and mentorship before competing for prizes provided by Latitude59’s partners. One winning startup will also receive an invitation to attend Latitude59 2027 in Tallinn, Estonia, with travel expenses covered by the organisers.
The December 3–4 event will mark the fourth Latitude59 edition held in Kenya. The first day will focus on investor activities and side events, while the main conference and pitch competition finals will take place on December 4.
The event will bring together African founders, international investors and companies seeking opportunities across African and global markets.
Last year’s edition attracted approximately 2,000 participants. Organisers expect a similar turnout this year, including around 600 investors from Africa, Europe, the Nordic countries and Asia.