Supported by world-class organisations, global leaders gain shared experiences and insights in a stunning, natural environment - creating a uniquely trusted, connected and collaborative exchange.
1 TargetCollaborating on tomorrow's most important opportunitiesBe Part of Counder
The Why
Especially in our digital era, tomorrow's most important opportunities require trusted human connections to drive transformative investment and collaboration. Counder Conference is where visionary leaders, investors, executives and top experts from around the world connect and engage with world-class organisations.
In Cape Town's inspiring setting, as one of the world's top ranked destinations, we bridge established and emerging markets, creating a unique setting where trusted connections form around future-defining sectors. These connections deliver measurable advantage in navigating disruption and unlocking collaborative potential that shapes tomorrow's global landscape—from strong investment returns to social impact—Counder Conference serves as the spark.
The Who
By invitation/application-only, Counder Conference brings together a carefully selected collective of visionary leaders & world-class organisations. They embody a forward-thinking mindset, a commitment to collaborative exploration, and a drive for measurable impact.
We unite leaders from across industries and disciplines unlike any other conference. This rich diversity of perspectives creates the ideal environment for breakthrough thinking and cross-sector collaboration.
Leaders & Organisations at Counder are characterised by:
Investor | Non-Executive Director, African Rainbow Capital & TymeBank
Shola Akinlade
Co-Founder & CEO, Paystack | Private Investor
Sherine Kabesh
Co-Founder, Flash | Private Investor
Fedor Holz
EPT & WPT Champion | Private Investor
Raphael Strauch
Founder, Token2049 | Technology Investor
Christoph Zoeller
CEO, Instaffo | Private Investor
Caroline Greyling
Museum Director, Norval Foundation
Claudia Zeisberger
Professor of Entrepreneurship & Family Enterprise, INSEAD
2026 Verticals & Topics
The Role ofDeep-Tech
The Role ofDeep-Tech
Quantum. Fusion. AI-designed proteins. Deep-tech is where science fiction becomes investable. At Counder 2026, we’re not just talking tech - we’re decoding the playbook for global transformation. Join founders, funders, and futurists as we dive into what’s real, what’s next, and what it takes to scale deep-tech with depth. This is where vision meets velocity.
What happens when the next unicorn isn’t from Silicon Valley - but Lagos or Jakarta? At Counder 2026, we explore how emerging markets are rewriting the global script. Expect bold insights, unexpected data, and real talk from the people shaping what’s next. It’s not about catching up - it’s about leapfrogging. The future is being built elsewhere.
Together with our partners, we’re shaping the frontier of thought and opportunity. Contribute your edge, define what’s next, and engage a visionary community. Be a partner of Counder.
Together with our partners, we’re shaping the frontier of thought and opportunity. Contribute your edge, define what’s next, and engage a visionary community. Be a partner of Counder.
At Counder, we know true progress thrives at the intersection of trusted connections, groundbreaking insights, and immersive experiences. We unite visionary leaders from around the world to explore tomorrow's most important opportunities together.
Our Collective fosters exclusive collaborations, strategic co-investments, and impactful outcomes. Whether you're a visionary investor seeking new frontiers or a leading pioneer in your field, you're invited to be a part of Counder. Together, let's shape the future and build a legacy that resonates across generations.
Counder Conference is our annual highlight— the full gathering of visionary leaders to explore tomorrow's most important opportunities together. Supported by world-class organisations, global leaders gain shared experiences and insights in a stunning, natural environment - creating a uniquely trusted, connected and collaborative exchange. It's where big ideas are born, trusted connections are made, and collaborative action on tomorrow's most important opportunities begins.
It is located in Cape Town not out of chance, but because: what better city to represent the future?
What does it cost to attend Counder Conference?
Counder Conference is FREE to attendbut by invitation or application only. We curate every participant to ensure alignment with our mission and maintain the integrity of our community. While attendance is free, we welcome those who want to contribute to support Counder as Mission Partners (contributing to our network growth) or Equity Partners (investing in our long-term impact). This approach removes financial barriers while reinforcing our commitment to building a collaboration-driven, high-trust network focused on shaping the future—together.
Where and when does the conference take place?
It's held every year at the end of January/beginning of February in Cape Town, South Africa. Exact dates vary, so check counder.com/conference for the latest schedule.
Why is the conference held in Cape Town?
Cape Town's unique position as an emerging city of the future driven by its blend of innovation, natural beauty, and cultural richness makes it the perfect base for Counder and our conference—inspiring creativity and connection.
What can attendees expect at the conference?
Participants immerse themselves in dynamic discussions, forge high-level connections, and experience curated networking activities that spark collaboration.