Blockchain AIT - South Africa

The programme will include curated interactions with blockchain students and researchers at the University of Zurich and Stellenbosch University, ecosystem partners, industry players, and local innovators — coordinated with local partners on the ground including Innocircle, the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), and the National Research Foundation (NRF).

Selected participants will pitch their solutions to an international student cohort, engage as mentors and sparring partners for student project teams, and complete a guided market exploration in South Africa. A return visit by selected African innovators to Switzerland is planned for late 2026 or early 2027.

Startups and researchers will be selected based on the fit of their solution with African needs, the potential of their technology, and expected benefit from the programme. Ventures at prototype or research stage will be considered. No existing Africa strategy is required — that is what the programme is for.

Eligibility:

Startups and innovative researchers based in Switzerland working with blockchain technology with potential relevance or application in Africa. Applications are welcome across all fields — finance, health, agriculture, legal, logistics, social impact, and beyond.

The call for African partners will be integrated into DDiB

Funding:

Travel and accommodation for the South Africa component (19–29 July 2026) are covered. A contribution to Zurich logistics costs is available for participants based outside Zurich.

Submission deadline: 15.06.2026

Apply here.