Startup and technology event Latitude59 is returning to Kenya for the fourth consecutive year, with applications now open for its 2026 Kenya Pitch Competition.
The event will take place in Nairobi on December 3–4, with December 3 dedicated to investor activities and side events, followed by the main conference and pitch competition on December 4.
The competition is open to early-stage startups from Kenya and other African countries. Selected finalists will compete for non-equity funding, partner prizes and an opportunity to pitch on the main stage of the Latitude59 Kenya Edition.
Latitude59 CEO Liisi Org said the event’s continued presence in Kenya reflects its efforts to connect African startups with investors and ecosystem participants from Europe, the Nordic countries, Asia and other international markets.
Last year’s Kenya edition attracted approximately 2,000 participants, according to the organisers. This year, Latitude59 expects a similar turnout, including around 600 investors from Africa, Europe, the Nordic region and Asia.
The organisers are also planning pre-events in Uganda and Zambia, marking the first time Latitude59 will hold activities in the two countries.
Startups participating in the Kenya Pitch Competition will be assessed on factors including their technology component, scalability, product development and traction. The organisers said applicants can come from any sector but should demonstrate a viable technology-driven business and potential for growth.
Latitude59 Head of Investor-Startup Relations Krista Meinarde said startups with a functioning minimum viable product, clear traction and active fundraising plans would be well suited to the competition.
Ten startups will ultimately be selected from the applicants. The finalists will receive pitch training and mentoring before competing in the final competition on December 4.
The finalists will compete for a pool of non-equity funding and partner prizes. One finalist will also receive a fast-track invitation to attend Latitude59 2027 in Tallinn, Estonia, with round-trip travel costs covered by the organisers.
The competition provides early-stage startups with an opportunity to showcase their businesses to investors, partners and other members of the technology ecosystem gathered in Nairobi.
