69 Days to go – Beyond Access: Owning Capital, Markets & Power Female founders, we’re getting closer!
Cape Town, South Africa – The countdown is on to the 2026 AWIEF Conference, bringing together women entrepreneurs, investors, policymakers and business leaders from across Africa for two days of networking, learning, pitching and collaboration.
Also read: MEET SOME OF THE LEADERS SPEAKING AT AWIEF2026
Nedbank and AWIEF Partner to Launch Women Enterprise Growth and Export Programme in South Africa
Taking place at the Cape Town International Convention Centre on 10–11 November, the conference aims to showcase women-led businesses while tackling some of the systemic barriers that continue to limit women’s economic participation across the continent.
With the theme “You Pitch, You Grow. Africa Advances,” the AWIEF Pitch n Grow™ Competition will give women-led startups and growth-stage businesses an opportunity to pitch their solutions to investors and industry experts. Twelve finalists will receive VIP access to the conference, including flights and accommodation, while gaining exposure to potential investors, industry connections and media opportunities.
The programme will also feature practical opportunities for entrepreneurs to strengthen their businesses. Highlights include a Perfect Pitch Clinic with Liz Jones of Amal Consulting, designed to help entrepreneurs become investor-ready, as well as a masterclass on “Presence, Power and Poise” with Diane Boorman, CEO and Founder of The Diamond Academy.
On Day Two, delegates can participate in the AWIEF–Nedbank Women Enterprise Growth & Export Programme, focused on developing the skills and mentorship needed to take African businesses into international markets.
Technology and marketing will also feature prominently, with Canva presenting a dedicated masterclass aimed at helping delegates create stronger investor pitch decks and social media content. Registered delegates will also receive a complimentary Canva Pro pass for a limited period.
The conference will bring together an impressive line-up of African and international voices, including Ambassador Ninikanwa O. Okey-Uche, Dr Mary Okelo and Nirmala Reddy, alongside other influential leaders working to advance women’s economic empowerment and leadership.
The conference will culminate in the AWIEF Awards Ceremony and Gala Dinner, celebrating trailblazing women, entrepreneurs and leaders driving innovation and economic growth across Africa.
“I have seen AWIEF as an opportunity to celebrate women in business and to get their voices to be heard, their voices to be shared, and their ideas to transform the next generations of women in business.”
Alice Nkulikiyinka, Country Director, Business Professionals Network (BPN), Rwanda
AWIEF says its mission is rooted in collaboration and in creating opportunities that enable women to grow successful businesses and contribute meaningfully to Africa’s economic transformation.
For entrepreneurs, investors and organisations committed to advancing women in business, AWIEF 2026 promises to be a significant platform for connection, investment, skills development and inspiration.
AWIEF Conference 2026
10–11 November 2026
Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), Cape Town
Visit: https://www.awieforum.org/
