Africa has become home to a growing number of startups that are using technology to solve everyday problems. From fintech and healthcare to agriculture and education, entrepreneurs across the continent are building solutions with the potential to make a global impact. To help spotlight these businesses, KPMG Private Enterprise has opened applications for the 2026 KPMG Private Enterprise Global Tech Innovator competition. Now in its sixth year, the competition gives some of Africa’s most promising technology companies the chance to showcase their ideas on an international stage, with the global final taking place in Lisbon, Portugal.
Technology startups and scaleups from 13 countries that make up KPMG One Africa are eligible to apply. These countries are Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Applications close on Sunday, 2 August 2026.
The competition begins with national and regional rounds, where participating companies present their businesses to a panel of judges. Winners from these rounds will go on to represent Africa at the global final, competing alongside some of the world’s most innovative technology companies.
Judges will look at several factors when evaluating entries. These include how innovative the business is, the strength of the entrepreneurial team, its potential for growth, how well it serves customers, and how effectively it manages business risks.
According to Sandeep Main, Partner, Tax & Regulatory Services and Africa Head of Private Enterprise at KPMG, Africa continues to produce entrepreneurs who are finding creative ways to solve complex challenges through technology.
“The Global Tech Innovator competition provides these businesses with a unique opportunity to showcase their solutions, build valuable connections, and gain exposure to investors, industry leaders, and potential partners on a global stage,” he said. “We encourage eligible startups and scaleups from across Africa to enter and demonstrate the incredible innovation emerging from our continent.”
For finalists, the competition offers more than the chance to win a title. It provides opportunities to meet investors, connect with business leaders, exchange ideas with fellow entrepreneurs, and gain international visibility that could help accelerate business growth. The overall winner will be crowned the KPMG Private Enterprise Global Tech Innovator 2026.
The KPMG Private Enterprise Global Tech Innovator competition celebrates technology businesses that are creating meaningful change through innovation. Beyond recognising outstanding companies, it aims to connect entrepreneurs with the people, networks, and opportunities they need to take their businesses to the next level.
KPMG One Africa brings together KPMG member firms across Southern, East, and West Africa. The cluster includes Botswana, Ghana, Kenya, Mauritius, Mozambique, Namibia, Nigeria, Rwanda, South Africa, Tanzania, Uganda, Zambia, and Zimbabwe. Established as a formal One Africa cluster in 2025, it reflects KPMG’s commitment to supporting businesses and entrepreneurs across the continent through a more connected regional network.