If you’ve been building something amazing and wondering how to get it in front of the right people, this might be your moment.
Latitude59, Estonia’s flagship startup event, is back in Nairobi for the third year running – and they’re actively hunting for Africa’s next breakthrough companies.
The numbers tell a compelling story: last year’s competition nearly doubled its applications, and previous winners like Chumz and Vunapay aren’t just surviving – they’re thriving with serious revenue growth.
Why Estonia Keeps Coming Back to Africa
Here’s what’s interesting – Estonia gave the world Skype, Bolt, and Wise. This small Baltic country knows how to turn innovative ideas into global success stories. And their message to African entrepreneurs is clear: you’re next.
“African startups are home to some of the most exciting early-stage founders we’ve met globally,” says Latitude59 CEO Liisi Org. “They’re bold, resilient, and solving problems with global relevance.”
That’s not just feel-good talk. The proof is in their commitment – this is their third consecutive year in Nairobi, with plans to make their African edition the continent’s most impactful startup event by 2027.
What’s Actually at Stake
Beyond the prestige, here’s what the winning startup gets: a fully-funded trip to Estonia for Latitude59 2026, direct entry to the global semi-finals, and access to a network that has helped launch billion-dollar companies.
But even if you don’t win, you’re still in the room with over 350 investors and 3,000 industry professionals from across Africa, Europe, and beyond. That’s the kind of exposure that can change everything.
The Reality Check
This isn’t for everyone. They want startups with proven traction – real customers, real revenue, real growth. Your core team needs to be African-based, and you need to show you’re solving problems that matter.Out of all applications, only 10 startups will make it to the finals at A.S.K Dome on December 3-5. Those selected get professional pitch training and mentoring before taking the stage.
Your Move
Applications close on October 25, 2025. The question isn’t whether you’re ready for this opportunity – it’s whether this opportunity is ready for what you’ve built.
*The competition is open to all African startups with demonstrated traction. More details and applications are available on the Latitude59 website.*
