Call For Applications: GEF Entrepreneurs Investment Program 2026 (Up to

The Global Entrepreneurship Festival (GEF) has opened applications for the Entrepreneurs Investment Program (EIP) 2026, offering selected entrepreneurs access to up to $35,000 in total seed investment alongside mentorship, business training, investor pitching and global exposure. Applications close on October 6, 2026, and successful applicants will be expected to attend GEF 2026 in Cairo from November 6–8 at the JW Marriott Hotel.

"The programme is designed for entrepreneurs and startups looking to develop their businesses, prepare for investment and connect with investors, partners and other members of the global entrepreneurship ecosystem," the EIP description states.

Programme structure and funding terms

The EIP will provide a combination of cash and business support to participating startups. Investment awarded under the programme is structured as 50% cash funding and 50% non-cash business support, with the total package capped at $35,000 per participant. The non-cash component may include business coaching, mentorship, legal and regulatory support, accounting and financial advisory, digital solutions, branding, marketing, investor introductions and business development support.

Applicants should note that the $35,000 is not presented as a guaranteed cash grant. Investment may be disbursed in tranches based on agreed milestones and key performance indicators, and the programme may take an equity interest — typically 1% to 5% — in participating businesses. "The final percentage is to be agreed and documented in a separate investment agreement before disbursement," the EIP terms state.

Who can apply and application requirements

The call is open to entrepreneurs and startups with innovative ideas or ventures across stages — from founders building prototypes to businesses already operating in the market that are seeking to grow beyond their current footprint. Applicants must be at least 21 years old.

• Programme: GEF Entrepreneurs Investment Program (EIP) 2026
• Organiser: Global Entrepreneurship Festival
• Investment: Up to $35,000 in total seed investment (50% cash / 50% non-cash)
• Event dates: November 6–8, 2026
• Event venue: JW Marriott Hotel, Cairo, Egypt
• Application deadline: October 6, 2026

The online application asks founders to provide personal and business details including full name, contact information, country of operation, business or startup name, sector, co-founder information, website or landing page where available, and confirmation of availability to attend GEF in Cairo. "Applicants should note that the application form specifically asks them to confirm whether they will be in Cairo from November 6–8, 2026," the programme information cautions, emphasising that full participation in required activities and physical presence at the festival are part of programme completion requirements.

Outlook for applicants and ecosystem impact

Selected entrepreneurs will receive access to startup clinics, mentorship, incubation and investor pitching opportunities designed to prepare ventures for further fundraising and partnerships. The EIP aims to link founders with investors and potential partners and to provide global exposure during the November festival.

Interested entrepreneurs can complete the EIP 2026 online application through the official Global Entrepreneurship Festival website. Prospective applicants should review the EIP terms and conditions carefully, particularly the milestone-based disbursement structure and possible equity arrangements, before submitting their forms by October 6, 2026.