South Africa is set to host the BRICS Startup x SME Summit 2026, with Johannesburg becoming a meeting point for entrepreneurs, startups, small and medium-sized businesses, researchers, investors, corporates, policymakers and ecosystem builders from across the Global South. Taking place from 10–12 November 2026 at the Wits School of Governance, the summit is being convened by Social Impact Africa as a side track of the 2026 AfricaLics International Conference.

Under the theme “From Ideas to Impact,” the summit is designed to move the startup conversation beyond simply having an idea and towards the realities of building, funding, scaling and creating value. The programme includes founder conversations, market-validation and design-thinking sessions, practical discussions around AI and SME automation, investor and social-impact sessions, as well as opportunities for startups and SMEs to showcase their products, technologies and prototypes through Startup Square.

For South Africa, the Johannesburg setting also places the summit within a broader conversation about innovation, research and economic development. The accompanying AfricaLics conference is expected to bring together academics, government, industry, civil society and international development organisations, with its programme focused on innovation and development in Africa. Together, the two programmes create a space where entrepreneurship can be discussed alongside research, markets, investment, policy and the institutions that influence how businesses develop.

For founders, SMEs, researchers, investors and entrepreneurs interested in exploring opportunities across African and Global South markets, the summit offers an opportunity to step into conversations around capital, partnerships, market access, technology and ecosystem development.

Registration is currently open, with the organisers stating that the registration deadline is 5 November 2026, participation and related travel costs are the responsibility of attendees.

If your business is building something and you’re looking for the people, markets or conversations that could help take it further, this event may be one to have on your calendar.