Applications are now open for H.E.R.O. – Harmonic Euro-African Ramp-up Orbit | Kenya Edition 2026, a free acceleration and internationalization program designed for ambitious startups in Kenya and East Africa that are ready to scale, strengthen their international positioning and connect with the European innovation ecosystem.

Promoted by Harmonic Innovation Group and organized by BeEntrepreneurs APS, H.E.R.O. supports high-potential startups through a journey that includes a competitive open call, an intensive one-week bootcamp in Nairobi, a Demo Day at the Residence of the Italian Ambassador in Nairobi and, for the 3 winning teams, a fully funded Italian Roadshow in November 2026.

The program aims to create a bridge between East African innovation and the Italian and European ecosystem, providing selected founders with access to training, mentoring, international networks, investors and corporate partners.

 

WHO CAN APPLY
H.E.R.O. is looking for founders and startups with strong local roots, high growth potential and the ambition to expand beyond local markets.

The program is open to startups working across a wide range of sectors, including but not limited to:

• AgriTech
• HealthTech
• Fintech
• EdTech
• CleanTech
• Blue Economy
• Logistics
• Tourism
• Other innovative and impact-driven sectors

This opportunity is particularly relevant for startups that are ready to refine their business model, improve their investor readiness and explore new international market opportunities.

 

BENEFITS
Selected startups will have access to a high-value acceleration and internationalization journey, including:

• Intensive training: a one-week bootcamp in Nairobi with hands-on workshops focused on value proposition, business modelling, go-to-market strategy, fundraising and investor storytelling.
• Mentorship and networking: selected founders will benefit from mentoring and networking opportunities with entrepreneurs, investors, innovation experts and ecosystem actors from Kenya, Italy and Europe.
• Demo Day: startups will have the opportunity to pitch during a high-profile Demo Day at the Residence of the Italian Ambassador in Nairobi, in front of investors and key stakeholders.
• Italian Roadshow: the 3 winning teams will take part in a fully funded Italian Roadshow in November 2026, gaining direct exposure to the Italian and European innovation ecosystem.
• Long-term international connections: H.E.R.O. is designed as more than a traditional acceleration program: selected founders enter a long-term network of investors, mentors and corporate partners in Italy and Europe.

 

KEY DATES

• Application deadline: July 15, 2026
• Bootcamp in Nairobi: August 3–7, 2026
• Italian Roadshow for the 3 winning teams: November 2026

 

Do not miss this valuable opportunity for Kenyan startups ready to strengthen their international positioning and build new connections with the European innovation ecosystem.

Your next international growth opportunity could start here.