New DEMO Africa dates announced

The new dates for DEMO Africa 2017 have been announced as 23-24 November 2017 in Johannesburg, South Africa.

Per a statement on the official DEMO Africa website, the change was prompted by consultations with other stakeholders in the host country. The application window to launch at DEMO Africa has been extended to end of August 2017, giving startups more time to refine their applications and those who were time barred can now look forward to finalizing their applications.

Already 800 applications have been received through the online application portal and 12 startups have been short-listed for the direct nomination through the Innovation Tours.

“DEMO Africa is an inclusive event and this year, we received requests from several stakeholders and partners from the host country to move the event forward to allow for better engagement and alignment,” said Harry Hare, DEMO Africa, Executive Producer and Director. “The new dates give everyone a little time to plan effectively and we are confident of a highly successful event topping that of last year,” he concluded.

Last year the event attracted over 600 participants among them investors, CEO’S, media and policy makers from across Africa. “The drive now is to make sure that we recruit the best of African startups to showcase at DEMO Africa and bring investors from as many countries as possible.

“Last year, the dedicated deal zones and showcase pods were a buzz of activity.” said Mbugua Njihia, the Event Director.

“We are excited to work with the DEMO Africa team again this year to bring African Entrepreneurship and Innovation to the fore here in Johannesburg”, said Shaun Govender, the CEO, at The Business Place who are the local partners for DEMO Africa.

“Last year’s event was an eye opener for us on the quality of the innovation and creativity of entrepreneurs from the entire continent, we are now aligned and making all necessary arrangements to make sure we have another successful event this year” he concluded.

Startups can continue to apply through the DEMO Africa website until August 31st.