Gabon’s Ministry of Digital Economy, Digitalization and Innovation, alongside the Gabonese Business Federation (FEG), launched Kimba Connect 2026 on Monday at the headquarters of the Bank of Central African States (BEAC) in Libreville. This groundbreaking national open innovation challenge aims to bridge the gap between businesses facing digital transformation hurdles and local startups equipped to deliver tailored digital solutions.
The program operates through a challenge-based approach, inviting enterprises to present their most pressing digital transformation barriers. Startups then compete to propose innovative solutions, with the most promising projects receiving tailored support for development and implementation.
Applications are open until midnight on Tuesday, July 14. The initial selection phase concludes on July 24, followed by a final showcase event scheduled for August 4, 2026.
Mark Alexandre Doumba, Gabon’s Minister of Digital Economy, emphasized the program’s core philosophy: “True innovation only has meaning when it addresses real-world needs.” He highlighted how Kimba Connect 2026 will convert corporate challenges into growth opportunities while providing startups with expanded market access and heightened visibility.
Organizers envision multiple outcomes from this initiative: fostering open innovation, strengthening ties between established businesses and emerging tech ventures, accelerating national digital transformation, showcasing Gabonese talent, and boosting the country’s economic competitiveness.
This initiative aligns with Gabon’s broader strategy to accelerate digital modernization and nurture homegrown innovation. By creating a collaborative framework between the private sector and startups, the government aims to develop Gabon-designed digital solutions that address the modernization challenges faced by local enterprises.
Through these partnerships, authorities hope to enhance business competitiveness, support innovative entrepreneurship, and contribute to diversifying the national economy.
