How ZBIF works
A structured pipeline from challenge to deal, connecting Zimbabwe's industry with its innovation ecosystem, sourced and screened long before the forum itself.
Four stages from problem to signed deal
Work happens before anyone arrives in Bulawayo. Forum week is where matched teams pitch, then sit with the people who can say yes.
-
Companies submit challenges
Industry posts real operational problems: software, hardware, ops, training or process, with context and, where possible, a pilot budget.
-
Innovators get matched
Startups, universities and researchers are screened, then paired to challenges that fit their sector and capability.
-
Solutions get built
Matched teams develop a demonstrable answer with mentor and industry-owner feedback before forum week.
-
Deals close at the forum
Teams pitch live, then move into private Deal Rooms with the buyers and investors who can say yes.
What success looks like
ZBIF is not judged on attendance. These are the numbers the platform is built to track.
Challenges submitted
Real operational problems posted by industry.
Innovators registered
Startups, universities and SMEs on the platform.
Matches made
Innovators paired to the right challenges.
Pitches confirmed
Teams progressing to the forum stage.