Kenyan media platform TechMoran has announced the launch of the StartupEast Conference & Awards, a regional platform designed to identify, elevate, and connect early-stage startups across East Africa. The initiative culminates in a flagship conference in Nairobi on December 3, 2026, accompanied by an open call for nominations to uncover the region’s hidden tech talent.

The platform targets early-stage companies that have raised less than $2 million and are under eight years old. StartupEast is deliberately seeking ventures across diverse sectors, including artificial intelligence, fintech, agritech, health tech, and enterprise software, that possess a working prototype, minimum viable product, or early market traction.

“StartupEast is about finding the founders and companies that are still early enough to surprise the market,” said Sam Wakoba, Co-Founder of TechMoran. “There are founders across East Africa building real businesses and winning their first customers without necessarily having the visibility that comes with a major funding round. We want to find them early and connect them to the people and opportunities that can help them grow.”

In the months leading up to the December event, the platform will host monthly #TechNights to facilitate organic deal-making, discussions, and networking among founders, angel investors, venture capitalists, and corporate leaders.

The evaluation process will prioritize founder resilience, product strength, problem relevance, and scalable market opportunities. Following the shortlisting phase, selected startups will proceed to a public vote before final recognition at the December conference.

With categories spanning Startup of the Year, Most Promising Startup, and various sector-specific honours, the ultimate goal remains bridging the gap between emerging ventures and tangible commercial support.

Startup nominations are now open through TechMoran HERE by October 20, 2026. The StartupEast Conference & Awards 2026 will take place on December 3, 2026.

Those interested in attending the conference can register through StartupEast HERE.