PRESS RELEASE
Latitude59 Kenya’s Pitch Competition has set a new record, attracting applications from 509 startups across 25 countries in Africa and beyond. The finalists will take the main stage at Latitude59 Kenya Edition 2026 in Nairobi this December.
According to Latitude59’s Head of Investor-Startup Relations Krista Meinarde, the number of applications for the pitch competition in Kenya has nearly doubled compared to last year.
“This year, we’re seeing some interesting shifts in the types of startups applying. E-commerce and retail are leading the way, but we’re also seeing strong representation from fintech, agritech, foodtech and AI startups, as well as companies developing workflow and productivity tools. What’s particularly exciting is that while most applicants are still early-stage, 43% are already generating monthly revenue. That says a lot about the quality of this year’s applicants, and our team is really looking forward to working with the founders,” said Meinarde.
This year, Latitude59 has significantly expanded its reach across Africa, attracting applications from countries throughout the continent. Kenya accounts for approximately two-thirds of all African applications, while the remaining applicants come from other regions, including East Africa, West Africa and Southern Africa. Applications have also been received from Central and North Africa, highlighting Latitude59’s growing presence across the continent.
From more than 500 applicants, 10 of the strongest teams will be selected to receive professional pitch training and mentoring. The finalists will compete on the main stage of Latitude59 Kenya Edition for prizes provided by Latitude59 partners. One startup will also win an invitation to Latitude59 2027 in Tallinn, Estonia, with travel costs covered by Latitude59.
Latitude59 Kenya Edition 2026 will take place on December 3–4 in Nairobi, marking the fourth Latitude59 event held in Kenya. December 3 will be dedicated to investor activities and side events, while the main conference and pitch competition finals will take place on December 4.
Over the two-day programme, African founders, international investors and companies operating across African and global markets will come together in Nairobi to connect, exchange ideas and explore opportunities for international growth. Last year’s event attracted around 2,000 participants from Africa and around the world, and this year the organizers expect a similar turnout of around 2,000 attendees, including 600 investors from Africa, Europe, the Nordics, and Asia.
About Latitude59
Latitude59 is an Estonia-born global platform connecting startups, investors and startup ecosystem builders from around the world. Its flagship event takes place in Tallinn, Estonia, where this year’s 14th edition brought together more than 3,000 participants from over 70 countries, including 800 startup representatives and 60 investors.
Latitude59 has steadily expanded its international presence, having previously hosted events in Singapore, Kenya and the South African cities of Cape Town and Johannesburg. This year, Latitude59 has further strengthened its presence in Africa, hosting events in Uganda and Zambia for the first time to build stronger connections between startup communities across the continent. Through its global network and events, Latitude59 brings together startup ecosystems across different markets, creating new opportunities for founders, investors and companies to grow internationally.
About Estonia
Estonia is home to the highest concentration of unicorns in Europe, boasting 865 startups per 1M people. For years, Estonia has been a role model in the global tech scene. Many Estonian startups, such as Bolt, Admiral Markets, and Yaga, are already active in Africa.
Tickets for the Latitude59 Kenya Edition 2026 to see the finals of Latitude59 Pitch Competition in Nairobi, Kenya are available here: https://latitude59.ee/kenya/
