Kenya’s Top Startups & MSMEs Set to Compete at the GEC+ Africa Kenya Regional Pitch Competition

Uzuzi Hub, in partnership with NCBA Bank, GEC+ Africa, and GEN Kenya, will tomorrow host the GEC+ Africa Kenya Regional Pitch Competition, bringing together some of Kenya’s most promising startups and entrepreneurs for an afternoon of innovation, collaboration, and entrepreneurship.

The event, taking place on Thursday, 9th July 2026, at Hackhouse Africa, marks the culmination of the University Innovation Challenge, Uzuzi Hub‘s innovation program that serves as Kenya’s pipeline for identifying, mentoring, and preparing high-potential startups for regional and continental opportunities in partnership with NCBA Bank.

This year’s challenge attracted 52 applications from innovative startups and MSMEs across Kenya. Following a rigorous screening process, the Top 10 finalist teams have been selected to pitch innovative solutions addressing challenges across sectors, including healthcare, financial services, agriculture, energy, manufacturing, and e-commerce.

Ahead of the competition, the finalists participated in a bootcamp session to strengthen their business models, refine their investor pitches, and prepare for the next stage of growth.

Uzuzi Hub Takes the Global Stage in Innovation

Held under the theme “Connecting Africa,” the event will feature startup pitches, thought-provoking panel discussions, mentorship, networking opportunities, and an awards ceremony, bringing together entrepreneurs, investors, corporates, ecosystem builders and development partners committed to advancing entrepreneurship across Africa.

The competition is designed to showcase Kenya’s entrepreneurial talent while creating meaningful connections between startups and the partners, mentors, investors, and ecosystem leaders who can accelerate their growth. Outstanding startups will also gain increased visibility within the GEC+ Africa ecosystem, opening doors to regional collaboration and continental entrepreneurship opportunities.

About Uzuzi Hub

Uzuzi Hub is a youth-focused innovation and entrepreneurship hub dedicated to equipping young people and entrepreneurs with the skills, networks, and opportunities needed to build sustainable businesses. Through innovation challenges, entrepreneurship programs, mentorship, digital skills development, and strategic partnerships, Uzuzi Hub empowers innovators to transform ideas into impactful ventures.

About GEN Kenya

GEN Kenya is the Kenyan chapter of the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN), working to strengthen the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by connecting entrepreneurs with mentors, investors, policymakers, and strategic partners. Through collaborative programs and ecosystem-building initiatives, GEN Kenya supports entrepreneurs at every stage of their journey.

About NCBA Bank

NCBA Bank is one of Africa’s leading financial institutions, committed to supporting entrepreneurship, innovation, and sustainable economic growth. Through strategic partnerships and innovative financial solutions, NCBA continues to empower startups and SMEs to grow, scale, and create lasting impact.

About GEC+ Africa

The Global Entrepreneurship Congress Africa (GEC+ Africa) is a pan-African platform connecting entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers, corporates, and ecosystem leaders to advance entrepreneurship across the continent. Launched in 2017, GEC+ Africa forms part of the Global Entrepreneurship Network’s global movement to strengthen entrepreneurial ecosystems worldwide. By fostering collaboration, investment, and knowledge exchange, GEC+ Africa is helping build a more connected and thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem across Africa.

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