The United Republic of Tanzania
Information and Communication Technologies Commission

Who We Are

Tanzania ICT Startup is a platform governed by the ICT Commission of Tanzania. It is designed to register ICT startups, hubs, and accelerators and ensure their recognition and promotion to digital consumers, investors, and business partners. The platform connects these entities with market opportunities, investors, and corporate partners by facilitating visibility and credibility. Aligned with the ICT Commission’s mandate, this platform fosters innovation, drives investment in the ICT sector, and supports research on emerging digital trends. We are committed to creating a collaborative environment where registered startups, hubs, and accelerators can access the resources and networks needed to thrive, contributing to Tanzania’s growing digital economy. We also encourage the growth of grassroots programs aimed at nurturing ICT talent and fostering innovation from the ground up. These programs ensure that emerging startups and innovators from all regions of Tanzania can access the support they need to develop and scale their solutions.

What We Do

Tanzania ICT Startup provides a comprehensive platform for registering and supporting ICT startups, hubs, accelerators, and grass-root ICT innovation programs in Tanzania. Our key offerings include:

  • Registration & Recognition:
    We offer an official platform for ICT startups, hubs, accelerators, and grass-root ICT innovation programs to gain recognition and visibility within the country.
  • Market Linkages:
    Connecting startups, institutions, and organizations with investors, corporate partners, and key industry players to unlock growth and business opportunities.
  • Grass-root ICT Innovation Programs:
    Supporting local ICT talent, innovation, and institutions through programs aimed at fostering the development of digital solutions across Tanzania.
  • Capacity Building:
    Offering resources, training, and workshops to help startups, institutions, and ICT professionals grow and build sustainable businesses.
  • Networking & Partnerships:
    Facilitating collaborations between innovators, investors, and industry leaders to create a vibrant digital ecosystem.
  • Access to Funding:
    Connecting startups and organizations with investors and funding opportunities to scale their solutions and drive innovation.

The following are the systems registration stakeholders

ICT Grassroot Programmes

A grassroots program is all about empowering local communities to take charge of their own challenges and opportunities. It fosters change from the ground up, directly involving the people who are most affected. These programs create sustainable solutions by leveraging local knowledge, skills, and resources. Examples of grassroots initiatives include:

  • Basic Computer Training:
    This involves teaching individuals’ essential skills like using a keyboard, navigating the internet, sending emails, and understanding basic online safety. The goal is to ensure everyone, regardless of their background, can take advantage of digital tools.
  • Community Tech Centers:
    These are local hubs equipped with computers and internet access. They serve various purposes, such as providing a place for online education, helping people apply for jobs, or accessing government services online. Think of them as community libraries focused on technology.
  • Tech Awareness Campaigns:
    These campaigns inform people how technology can enhance their lives. For example, educating farmers on how to use apps to track weather conditions or market prices, or showing small business owners how to sell products online.
  • Teacher and Staff Training:
    This involves equipping teachers, healthcare workers, and other community leaders with technology skills. For teachers, this might include integrating digital tools into their teaching methods. For healthcare workers, it could be using electronic health records or telemedicine.

ICT Startup

An ICT (Information and Communication Technology) startup is a new company that innovates in the digital tech field. These startups are known for their fresh ideas and potential for quick growth. Activities involved in the startup journey include:

  • Innovation:
    ICT startups often bring unique solutions to the market. This can be anything from ground breaking software to advanced AI (Artificial Intelligence) applications. For instance, creating a new mobile app that solves a specific problem or a cybersecurity solution that protects companies from online threats.
  • Growth Potential:
    These startups aim to scale rapidly, meaning they want to expand their reach and operations quickly. They design their products or services to handle growth without needing a proportionate increase in resources.
  • Flexibility:
    ICT startups must adapt quickly to new technologies and market changes. If a new tech trend emerges, they’re usually among the first to pivot and incorporate it into their strategies.
  • Funding:
    Early-stage ICT startups often rely on outside funding to get started. This can come from venture capitalists, angel investors, or government grants. These funds help them develop their products and enter the market.

ICT Innovation Hub

An incubation hub is like a nurturing greenhouse for startups. It provides the environment and support needed for new businesses to grow and thrive. Activities under incubation programs include:

  • Mentorship and Funding Assistance:
    One of the key offerings of an incubation hub is access to mentors. These mentors are typically industry experts who provide guidance on various aspects of running a business, such as marketing strategies, financial planning, and product development. Incubation hubs help startups identify and apply for funding opportunities, whether through grants, loans, or venture capital.
  • Workspace:
    Incubation hubs often provide office space at low or no cost. This includes desks, high-speed internet, meeting rooms, and sometimes even legal and accounting services. This kind of infrastructure support is crucial for startups that might otherwise struggle to afford it.
  • Networking:
    Startups in an incubation hub get opportunities to meet potential investors, partners, and customers through organized networking events. These connections can be invaluable in gaining funding and building a customer base.
  • Training:
    Hubs offer regular workshops and training sessions on essential business skills. Topics might include business planning, marketing, finance, and legal compliance, all aimed at helping startups build a strong foundation.

Digital Accelerators

A digital accelerator is designed to fast-track startups that are ready to scale. It's like giving a turbo boost to companies with high growth potential. Activities implemented by digital accelerators include:

  • Structured Programs:
    Digital accelerators have intensive programs that include workshops, boot camps, and one-on-one coaching. These programs usually last for a few months and are designed to accelerate the startup’s growth.
  • Tech Access:
    Startups in an accelerator get access to advanced technology like development tools, platforms, and software. This helps them build and test their products more efficiently.
  • Market Validation:
    Accelerators help startups refine their products by getting feedback from experienced mentors and potential customers. This process ensures the product meets market needs before a large-scale launch.
  • Investor Pitches and Global reaches:
    One of the key goals of an accelerator is to prepare startups for investment rounds. This involves coaching them on how to pitch their business to investors and setting up meetings with venture capitalists and angel investors. Accelerators often have connections to international markets, helping startups expand their reach beyond local boundaries