Africa Takes the Lead at UM6P Deep Tech Summit
Under the theme 'Redefining Progress: How AI is Transforming Deep Tech,' the two-day event brought together startups, investors, academics, and policymakers to explore how Africa can shape the future of science and industry.
Spanning 66 sessions across key areas like AI, cybersecurity, biotech, agritech, and climate tech, the summit focused on Africa's growing role in tackling global challenges through science and innovation.
The DTS Prize was the centrepiece. Tunisia's Cure Bionics won in Life Sciences, Morocco's Sand to Green took the Green Economy prize, and Kenya's Nyungu Afrika was named Most Promising African Startup. Each winner walked away with $50,000 and access to UM6P's research labs and investor network.
Startups also pitched live to top investors in formats like Reverse Pitch and Pitch in the Dark. The Deepfake Challenge, run with INWI, tackled misinformation by bringing together researchers and students to build AI-powered solutions. Yassine Laghzioui, Director of Entrepreneurship at UM6P, said the event proved that real impact happens when science meets markets, industry, and long-term investment.
Key partnerships with Attijariwafa Bank, Africorp Consortium, and H&S were announced to boost tech R&D, startup acceleration, and talent development across Africa.
Yassine Laghzioui, CEO of UM6P Ventures, said the event proved that real impact happens when science meets markets, industry, and long-term investment.
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