The United Kingdom's Department for Business and Trade – Africa launched the UK–Africa Ecosystem Week, a new support programme for African technology companies. This initiative took place during London Tech Week, one of the world's largest technology gatherings.
The programme offers curated sessions, dedicated workspaces, and concierge support to help African founders access and navigate opportunities. It aims to improve business growth goals for participating companies from countries such as Ghana, Nigeria, South Africa, Kenya, Egypt, and Algeria.
This initiative represents a new phase in the UK’s commitment to becoming a global hub for African technology companies. It builds on several years of growing engagement between the UK and African tech ecosystems. The program targets high-growth founders and delegations, facilitating connections with key market entry stakeholders and investors.
Anthony William Catt, Founder of Ventures 54 and UK-Africa Sandbox, highlighted the increasing interest from African founders in the UK market. He stated, “We’ve seen a clear increase in the number of African founders coming to London Tech Week to explore the UK market.” Mr. Catt also emphasized that the program provides a dedicated support track for founders to maximise their engagement.
Ben Ainsley, His Majesty’s Trade Commissioner (Acting) for Africa, noted the UK's position as a global tech leader. He explained that the UK offers a deep venture capital pool and access to global talent. Mr. Ainsley added that the UK Government is committed to supporting high-growth international companies seeking success in the UK market.
The UK–Africa Ecosystem Week welcomed delegations and founders from across Africa. It began on Sunday, June 7, with a welcome reception at Africa Centre. The week concluded on Wednesday, June 10, with the flagship UK–Africa Ecosystem Day and a London Africa Network closing mixer.
Participants received VIP access and concierge-style support to tailor their week. They also gained access to a dedicated Africa Lounge for meetings and Africa-focused panels. The program provided practical support on UK market entry, investment, and commercial expansion opportunities. This support extends beyond London Tech Week through the evolving UK–Africa Sandbox, a year-round platform.
This broader platform aims to support African founders entering the UK market. It also opens pathways for UK scale-ups into African ecosystems. The initiative expands on existing in-country sandbox programmes in South Africa and Nigeria. It now includes wider pan-African partnership and ecosystem initiatives, enhancing cross-continental technological collaboration. The UK sees this as a strategic move to strengthen economic partnerships with African nations, providing benefits to both regions.