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host an africarena summit in your ecosystem city

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Why Host an AfricArena Summit?

​​​The Perks

  • Position your city as a leading hub for technology and innovation in Africa, attracting international visibility and recognition.

  • Stimulate local economic growth, including increased activity in the hospitality, tourism, and service sectors.

  • Foster connections between local entrepreneurs and global investors, creating opportunities for funding and market access.

  • Showcase your region’s talent and innovative startups, driving partnerships and collaborations.

  • Demonstrate your city’s or government’s commitment to fostering entrepreneurship, innovation, and digital transformation.

  • Gain exposure to global media outlets, industry leaders, and investment communities.

  • Drive long-term benefits through new partnerships and collaborations forged during and after the summit.

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Our Outcomes

  • South Africa: Already one of the top four venture capital (VC) destinations in Africa, AfricArena has helped further catalyze the country’s vibrant startup ecosystem, cementing its position as a preferred hub for VC investment on the continent.

  • Senegal: During AfricArena's Summit series in Dakar (2021–2023), Senegal experienced a dramatic rise in its standing as a tech VC investment destination, jumping from 30th to 5th place within just a few years. This growth reflects the ecosystem's strengthened visibility, connectivity, and access to capital.

  • Tunisia: Between 2021 and 2024, while hosting AfricArena Summits in Tunis, the country’s annual VC investment surged from a modest $3 million to over $50 million, showcasing the remarkable evolution of its tech and entrepreneurial ecosystem.

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key responsibilities of host cities

AfricArena is seeking proposals from cities and government agencies that demonstrate a commitment to hosting a successful summit. The following are the key responsibilities of host cities:
1. Venue and Event Support

  • Provide a suitable venue that can accommodate 200–300 delegates, equipped with:

    • Conference facilities (audio-visual systems, high-speed internet, breakout rooms).

    • Networking spaces for informal meetings and discussions.

  • Accessibility for international and local attendees.

  • Assistance with organizing catering, security, and other logistical aspects.

2. Financial Contribution or Sponsorship

  • A financial or in-kind contribution toward the summit's operational costs, including venue rental, event materials, and staff support.

  • Active facilitation of partnerships with local sponsors and stakeholders.

3. Ecosystem Engagement

  • Actively involve local startups, investors, hubs, and innovation stakeholders.

  • Curate and present local success stories, innovative solutions, and promising startups to be showcased during the summit.

  • Work with AfricArena to source startups for the pitching competitions and innovation challenges

4. Marketing and Media Promotion

  • Commit to promoting the event through local and regional media channels, as well as partnerships with influencers and industry leaders.

  • Support AfricArena in driving attendance and awareness among local and regional stakeholders.

5. Government Facilitation

  • Assist with administrative support, such as:

    • Issuing invitation letters for international attendees requiring visas.

    • Coordinating local permits or approvals needed for the event.

    • Facilitating customs clearance for equipment or materials brought in for the summit.

6. Collaboration with AfricArena

  • Work closely with AfricArena to ensure alignment on event goals, program design, and audience outreach.

  • Ensure that the event integrates seamlessly into the broader AfricArena program and ecosystem.

proposal guidelines

Interested parties must submit a detailed proposal that includes the following:

 

  1. City Overview

    • A brief introduction to your city, highlighting its unique characteristics, accessibility, and innovation ecosystem.

    • Description of why your city is well-positioned to host an AfricArena Summit.

  2. Proposed Venue and Facilities

    • Description of the proposed venue(s), including seating capacity, facilities, and accessibility.

  3. Local Ecosystem Support

    • List of local partners, startups, innovation hubs, universities, corporates, and other stakeholders who will support the event.

    • Proposed strategy to engage these stakeholders in the summit.

  4. Financial and In-kind Contributions

    • Details of your financial contribution or sponsorship offer, as well as any in-kind support (e.g., venue, media coverage, local staff).

  5. Marketing and Promotion Plan

    • Strategy for promoting the event locally and regionally to ensure strong attendance and media visibility.

  6. Government and Administrative Support

    • Details on how your city or government agency will assist with visas, permits, and other logistical requirements.

  7. Budget Overview

    • Provide an outline of the estimated costs of hosting the summit and how your city will contribute to covering these costs.

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Selection Criteria

  • Quality and feasibility of the venue and logistical support.

  • Financial and in-kind contributions.

  • Strength of the local innovation ecosystem and proposed collaborations.

  • Commitment to promoting the event regionally and globally.

  • Alignment with AfricArena’s mission to foster innovation and investment in Africa.

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Submission Timeline

  • Proposal Submission Deadline: January 17th 2025 at 23:59 (SAST) 

  • Shortlisted Cities Announced: January 23rd 2025

  • Final Selection and Announcement: January 29th 2025

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For enquiries or further details, contact us at nafisah@africarena.com 

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Thank you for your submission. We look forward to reviewing your proposal and getting back to you!

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