Cape Town to Host Global Leaders at the 2026 Counder Conference

Cape Town is set to become a focal point for international business and investment when the Counder Conference 2026 convenes from January 27 to 29 across multiple venues in the city. This premium, invite-only event is expected to draw around 500 carefully selected global leaders - including family office principals, institutional investors, venture capital partners, and top entrepreneurs - for three days of strategic dialogue, collaboration, and opportunity exploration.

A Growing Global Stage

Counder, a global network that connects visionary leaders and innovators, chose Cape Town as the host city for its flagship conference amid South Africa’s recent G20 presidency, reflecting the country’s increasing significance in global economic discourse. The city’s dynamic business environment and strategic position as a gateway to African markets make it an ideal hub for the event.

The conference will be held in prestigious locations such as the German Residence and Norval Foundation in Tokai, offering attendees inspiring settings for both formal sessions and informal interactions.

Theme: Trusted Connections and Collaboration

Under the conference theme “Trusted Connections in Cape Town,” organizers aim to foster meaningful relationships and strategic partnerships among participants. Sessions will focus on emerging global trends and markets, with a strong emphasis on innovation, investment, and cross-border co-operation.

Rather than large, general presentations, Counder’s format prioritizes expert-guided roundtables, proprietary matchmaking systems, and strategic breakouts to ensure that engagement leads to real opportunities and collaboration.

Focus Areas and Strategic Discussions

The conference agenda highlights several key themes that reflect the current global business climate:

• Tech Innovation & AI: Exploring how artificial intelligence and digital technologies are reshaping industries, especially in emerging markets.

• Renewables & Energy Transition: Conversations around renewable energy adoption and investment opportunities across Africa and beyond.

• Biotech & Healthcare Innovation: Trends in biotech solutions and healthcare delivery systems with global relevance.

• Africa’s Emerging Markets: In-depth discussions on the continent’s demographic advantages, mobile-first adoption, and rapidly developing ecosystems in fintech, e-commerce, and climate tech.

Sessions will include case studies, investor insights, and opportunities to connect with thought leaders shaping global markets.

Who’s Attending

Counder Conference 2026 will bring together industry visionaries from across continents - including leaders from the Americas, Europe, Middle East, Asia-Pacific, and Africa. Attendees represent a mix of tech investors, family offices, startup founders, and seasoned business operators focused on co-investment and global expansion. While not a publicly ticketed event, participation is typically by invitation or approved application, ensuring a curated group aligned with the conference’s mission of fostering high-quality dialogue and action.

Why It Matters

The Counder Conference represents a pivotal moment for Cape Town and the broader African ecosystem. It builds on South Africa’s recent role on the global stage and aims to sustain momentum by bringing private sector leaders together to discuss investments, innovation, and collaborative pathways forward. For the host city, the event not only reinforces Cape Town’s reputation as a global business destination but also provides opportunities for local entrepreneurs, investors, and innovators to engage with influential international players