Date: 10–11 November 2026
Venue: Cape Town International Convention Centre (CTICC), Cape Town, South Africa
Speaking Opportunities
Panel Discussion: Contribute as a panelist or moderator of interactive conversations and dialogue alongside other industry experts and leaders.
Masterclasses & Workshops: Deliver a 60-minute practical session to equip participants with knowledge, skills, framework, tools, and strategies for business growth and/or career development.
Ignite Talks: Short, inspirational, high-impact talks (max 10 minutes), sharing powerful and authentic personal stories of resilience, experiences, and/or exceptional entrepreneurial journeys.
Thematic Areas
Plenary and panel discussions sessions, masterclasses and workshops will align with the following AWIEF2026 thematic pillars:
1. Owning Capital & Financial Power
Advancing access to and ownership of capital; Impact investing; Fundraising & Investor-readiness; Innovative financing models; Leadership for scale.
2. Commanding Markets, Trade & Value Chains
Key levers for market expansion; Strengthening participation in local, regional, and global value chains; The AfCFTA; Export competitiveness and Supply chains; Agribusiness; Green, blue and circular economy.
3.Technology, Innovation and Future Skills
Intellectual property (IP) and commercialization; AI, data and technology adoption; Building digital skills for career and business growth.
4. Policy and Systems Change
Gender responsive policy and regulatory framework; Inclusive economic transformation; Leadership.
5. Sustainability and ESG
Selection Criteria
• Proven sector/industry expertise and experience
• Relevance to AWIEF2026 theme
• Ability to deliver/facilitate engaging and high-quality masterclass/workshop
Important Information
- Please note the following:
Speaker fee (honorarium), travel and accommodation expenses are not covered - Participation is voluntary and subject to a formal selection process
- Selected speakers will receive complimentary conference access and visibility across AWIEF platforms
Due to the expected high volume of submissions, ONLY selected speakers will be contacted - AWIEF2026 is a fully in-person event, and virtual participation will not be available
Submission Deadline: 31 May 2026