Startup Capital of Africa: How Kenya is Shaping the Future

Startup Capital of Africa: How Kenya is Shaping the Future

Entrepreneurship
Photo Courtesy: Citizen TV Kenya Every so often, you come across a story that makes you pause and say, “This is it—this is what real resilience looks like.” And this year, Kenya has done just that. In 2024, Kenyan startups secured $638 million in funding, the highest in Africa. Yes, you read that right—despite a tougher climate for investment across the continent, Kenya stood tall. According to Africa: The Big Deal Report, the country accounted for 88% of East Africa’s total funding and more than a quarter of Africa’s total. This was not just luck—it is a result of the grit, innovation, and relentless drive that defines the Kenyan startup ecosystem. It is about impact, not just numbers. And at the heart of this success are bold entrepreneurs, visionary investors,…
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How to Register Your Business in Kenya in 2025

How to Register Your Business in Kenya in 2025

Entrepreneurship, How To's
So, you have got a brilliant business idea, and you are ready to take over the world (or at least Kenya, for now). But before you start making sales and stacking profits, there is one crucial step you cannot skip—registering your business. Yes, it sounds like a lot, but trust me, it is easier than you think. Let us break it down: What You Will Need to Register Your Business Before you dive into the registration process, make sure you have these key documents and information ready. It will save you a lot of back-and-forth: Your ID/PassportA clear copy of your Kenyan ID (for citizens) or passport (for foreigners) is needed to confirm your identity.  KRA PINA Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) PIN is mandatory for business registration. If you don’t…
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Best Businesses to Start in Kenya on a Budget

Best Businesses to Start in Kenya on a Budget

Entrepreneurship, How To's
Starting a business is an exciting journey, but when you are working with a tight budget, it can feel overwhelming. You may ask yourself, “Can I really do this without millions in the bank?” The truth is, you can—especially in Kenya, where small businesses are thriving. In fact, 98% of businesses in Kenya are small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), according to a tracker by the Central Bank of Kenya. This sector is the heartbeat of our economy, creating jobs and driving innovation. So if you are thinking about starting something of your own, you are definitely not alone. The key to success lies in starting small, focusing on your skills, and tapping into what your community needs. Here are some businesses that are ideal for anyone looking to get started…
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Surviving (and Thriving) During the Holiday Business Rush

Surviving (and Thriving) During the Holiday Business Rush

How To's
Earlier this week in the office, the conversation naturally turned to Christmas plans. For most, it was the usual: traveling upcountry, enjoying nyama choma, and spending time with family. But Steve Njooro, founder of Soft Sage(Paid), and an incubatee here at @iBizAfrica, brought us back to the entrepreneurial reality, saying, “For me, the holiday season is a workday—just on overdrive.” His platform, which helps businesses capture client information, reward loyalty points, and send personalized communications, embodies the hustle many entrepreneurs face during this time. For entrepreneurs, the holiday season is not just another month—it is often the busiest and most important time of the year. With Black November sales, Christmas shopping chaos, and back-to-school prep right after New Year's, the pace can feel non-stop. To help you make it through,…
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What Entrepreneurs Should Know About Kenya’s New Banking Reforms

What Entrepreneurs Should Know About Kenya’s New Banking Reforms

Entrepreneurship
Let’s face it: entrepreneurship in Kenya is not for the faint-hearted. The hustle is real. Navigating unpredictable markets and chasing down payments is part of the daily grind for entrepreneurs. Now, just as we are catching our breath, here comes another curveball: proposed banking reforms that could shake up the financial landscape. The big question is, what do these changes mean for you—the entrepreneur who is out here grinding every day? Let us break it down and see how you can stay ahead of the game. The Core Capital Proposal: What is Changing? The government wants to raise the minimum core capital for banks from Ksh. 1 billion to Ksh. 10 billion over the next three years. Minimum core capital refers to the amount of money banks are required to…
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Ballots and Business: How the U.S. Election Could Impact Kenyan Startups

Ballots and Business: How the U.S. Election Could Impact Kenyan Startups

Entrepreneurship, WEIP
As the U.S. presidential election draws global attention, it is crucial to understand how this major event could ripple through economies across the world, including here in Kenya. While the U.S. election might seem far removed from the daily operations of African startups, changes in U.S. policies—particularly regarding trade, foreign investment, and international development partnerships—can significantly shape the opportunities available to African businesses in the years to come. The U.S. is a key player in global markets, and its foreign policies often have far-reaching effects. For startups engaged in tech, agribusiness, renewable energy, or export-oriented sectors, shifts in leadership can influence access to capital, markets, and partnerships. In recent years, initiatives like Prosper Africa have fostered closer economic ties between the U.S. and Africa, aiming to increase trade and investment.…
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