As artificial intelligence continues to reshape global industries, Specno, one of South Africa’s leading digital innovation agencies, is sounding a clear message ahead of its flagship Innovators Den event on 29 May 2025: Access to AI is not enough — now we must build the right thing.
This year’s forum, hosted in Cape Town, is set to tackle the central theme: “Is South Africa ready for AI?”. Bringing together tech entrepreneurs, investors, and product builders, the event promises to be more than just a discussion — it’s a call to action for smart innovation in an AI-saturated world, where predictions for the global AI market value are anywhere between $2.6–$4.4 trillion (McKinsey), $4.8 trillion (UN) and up to $15.7 trillion (PwC).
“AI hasn’t just given us a single tool — it’s unlocked an entire sandbox of possibilities,” says Daniel Novitzkas, Chairman of Specno. “But with this democratisation of innovation, the pressure isn’t just to build — it’s to build what matters, and to make sure Africa isn’t left behind in the process. A pretty UI or flashy rollout is not enough. What separates real impact from digital noise is how well we understand the user and the problem we’re solving.”
Novitzkas highlights that for small businesses and startups, speed alone is no longer a differentiator. The rise of AI means almost anyone can launch a product — but sustainable growth depends on real usability, validated need, and contextual relevance, especially on the African continent.
“Great tech doesn’t emerge from hype. It comes from understanding what users truly need — not just what they say they want — and validating those insights through iterative design and expert feedback,” he adds. “This is what the Innovators Den is all about: turning smart ideas into smarter, sustainable impact, not just for South African businesses, but for use and deployment across Africa too.”
One success story born from this philosophy is Wardworx, a medical app built by South African doctors, for doctors, in collaboration with Specno. It streamlines patient task management in hospitals — a high-pressure environment where real-time data matters more than bells and whistles. This kind of product, deeply rooted in real-world challenges, embodies the type of innovation that the Innovators Den aims to foster.
The event will also reflect on past alumni, including JOBJACK and AgriKool, and will offer a platform for emerging ventures looking to go from idea to impact with the backing of experienced product strategists and builders.
