The Supernova Pitch Competition is AI Everything Kenya's flagship startup pitch competition - one of the largest startup competitions on the African continent. Selected startups pitch to a panel of 100+ investors and VCs from across the globe, with winners earning international recognition and access to the broader GITEX Global Supernova network.

The Supernova Pitch Competition at AI Everything Kenya is among the largest startup competitions on the African continent, with access to 100+ international investors and VCs and a pathway to the global GITEX Supernova network - one of the world's most recognised startup platforms.

Supernova Pitch Competition winners receive global recognition on the GITEX platform, direct investor access, and the opportunity to represent Africa at GITEX Global. All finalists gain live exposure to 100+ investors and VCs attending AI Everything Kenya 2026 in Nairobi.

Applications for the Supernova Pitch Competition 2026 can be submitted through the AI Everything Kenya startup programme page. The selection process includes an initial application review followed by a shortlisting stage ahead of the live pitching event at KICC on 20-21 May 2026.

No. The Supernova Pitch Competition welcomes startups from across East Africa and the wider African continent, as well as international teams. The programme is specifically designed to surface the best tech startups from emerging markets globally.

You’ll be contacted by the team within one week of the event to arrange your prize and next steps.

2 Minute Pitch + 3 Min Q&A per startup. Only 1 person can deliver the pitch on stage.

Supernova Champion:
10 startups will be shortlisted to pitch on 20th May. 5 Startups are selected for the finals on 21st May. 1 winner will be awarded.

Africa Founders Festival - Rising Disruptor Award
5 startups will be shortlisted to pitch on 20th May. The winner will be awarded on 21st May.

Your pitch deck should clearly include the problem you're solving, your solution, business model, market, traction, and team. Here is a good reference for you: How to structure your pitch deck

14th May 2026

No. Each year there is a new selection process. If you miss your pitch, your spot will be given to the next runner-up.

TBA

There will be no sector categories in the upcoming edition as part of AI Supernova Pitch Competition. The selection committee will score, and shortlist startups based on a variety of metrics including sector representation.

You can still engage with investors and a wider audience. A waitlist is maintained for last-minute changes.

13^th May 2026 at 23:59 Kenya time

Your 60 second pitch video should clearly convey your startup’s purpose, the problem you're solving and why it matters - no jargon, just clarity and confidence. Aim to spark curiosity and make investors want to hear more.

The video must not be more than 60 seconds - submissions longer than this will NOT BE CONSIDERED. It must be in English and clearly show your upper body (sitting or standing). Submit your video via YouTube or Vimeo URL. Reference video: The 1 minute Pitch - Keep it Simple

• ● Market Opportunity: Size, competition, scalability
• ● Business Model: Revenue, pricing, target customers
• ● Team: Skills and capability to execute

While we’re unable to provide individual feedback due to the high volume of applications, please know that every submission is carefully reviewed by our judging panel. We truly value the effort behind your application.