Great Rift Valley Innovation Summit
The inaugural Great Rift Valley Innovation Summit, presented by the Ethiopian Diaspora Trust Fund (EDTF), convened over 500 attendees from across the entrepreneurial, philanthropic, and investment ecosystems for a dynamic two-day gathering in Addis Ababa.
About this Summit
The Great Rift Valley Innovation Summit is a first of its kind event presented by the Ethiopian Diaspora Trust Fund (EDTF), to foster tech-enabled innovation and entrepreneurship in agriculture, healthcare, and education. We’re bringing together hundreds of investors, companies, startups, jobseekers and entrepreneurs together, to make their mark on Ethiopia’s future. Programming for the Summit includes an exhibitor hall to connect companies and startups to emerging talent, workshops and panel discussions, and our inaugural Great Rift Valley Pitch Competition, where startups from across the country will participate in Africa’s largest grant funding event: $750,000 in non-dilutive grant funding for the 18 most impactful companies!
Workshops & Panel Discussions
Our workshops and panel discussions are curated to offer valuable insights and knowledge to innovators and professionals at all stages in their careers, from those just entering the job market to executives with established careers, and everyone in between.
Pitch Competition
The Great Rift Valley Pitch Competition will award $750K USD in non-dilutive grant funding to early-stage and growth-stage companies that are driving innovation in Education, Health, and Agriculture. These three sectors are critical to Ethiopia’s future, and the competition aims to support ventures that are tackling the most pressing challenges within these areas. Apply now for the chance to compete!
Panelist
Unpacking Investment Barriers: Funding Challenges and Opportunities
Founder and CEO
Luminare Media Quality Improvement
Captain and Managing Director
Abyssinian Flight Services & Aviation Academy
Venture Capital Investor and Managing Director
Techstars Toronto Accelerator
Chief Representative
Dubai Chamber International
Why Startups Disappear in Ethiopia: Overcoming Growth Barriers and Ensuring Long-Term Expansion and Opportunities
CEO
Medanit Medical Directory
Founder & Managing Director
Lersha
Country Manager
Reach for Change
Keynote Speakers, Reflections
CEO
Ethiopian Investment Holdings
Country Manager
VISA
Board Member
EDTF
Country Manager
EDTF
Judges
Managing Director
Techstars Toronto Accelerator
Senior Partner
Melala Partners
CEO / Co-Founder
Araya Ventures
CEO / Co-Founder
RENEW Capital
Opening Remarks & Fireside Chat
Chair
EDTF
Director
Innovative Finance Lab
President
EYEA
- Legacy Builder Award
The Legacy Builder category is for startups that have moved beyond the MVP stage and are now in market entry or growth mode. These companies have established their foundations and are focused on scaling, expanding, and strengthening their market presence. Legacy Builder startups are designed for long-term impact, leveraging experience, strategic planning, and industry insights to sustain growth. They demonstrate resilience and leadership, shaping their industries through innovation, operational excellence, and a commitment to lasting success.