Côte d’Ivoire has unveiled its Startup Act, a new framework that is aimed at supporting the growth of tech start-ups in the country. This move is part of the country’s broader plan to prioritize technological innovation. The Act is set to boost the visibility and recognition of start-ups in Côte d’Ivoire, with eligible companies having access to state-of-the-art infrastructure and other amenities to aid success.

A committee of experts and enthusiasts will also be established to encourage and acknowledge excellence in the sector, and deserving start-ups will be granted an annual award. Recipients of this award will have access to new opportunities in financing, training, promotion, and access to public contracts and international markets.

Florence Tahiri Fadika, technical advisor in charge of innovation and change at the Ministry of Digital Economy, Telecommunications and Innovation, believes the Startup Act, combined with planned technology parks and start-up campuses, will make Côte d’Ivoire a hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. She also stated that a mapping study is currently underway to target the needs of the ecosystem, and that planned construction projects for technology parks and startup campuses will help make Côte d’Ivoire an attractive hub for startups from Africa and beyond.

Côte d’Ivoire’s Startup Act is based on a reflection initiated in 2018 and a benchmarking study with Tunisian counterparts in 2022. Tunisia was one of the first African countries to introduce a Startup Act, and its experience was identified as a valuable resource for Côte d’Ivoire.

While awaiting parliamentary approval, the government hopes the Startup Act will provide a much-needed boost to the country’s start-up sector and foster a culture of innovation and entrepreneurship.