The Zanzibar Startup Association (ZSA) is a member-based organization committed to building a thriving, inclusive startup ecosystem across the islands.
We bring together entrepreneurs, investors, enablers, and policymakers to champion innovation, advocate for startup-friendly policies, and empower local founders to turn bold ideas into sustainable ventures.
get to know us
what we do
Programs & Services
Policy & Advocacy
ZSA represents startup voices in policymaking and advocating for a better business environment in Zanzibar.
Capacity Building
We equip startups with the tools, knowledge, networks, and confidence they need to thrive. Through tailored workshops, mentorship, ecosystem partnerships, and capacity-building programs, ZSA empowers entrepreneurs to move from ideas to impactful ventures.
Networking
Regular events, forums, and meetups connect startups with investors, mentors and fellow innovators.
highlights
Zanzibar to Host Landmark Tech & AI Expo this August
July 10, 2025
Zanzibar is set to host one of Africa’s most anticipated innovation gatherings next month—the Tech & AI International Expo 2025, taking place from August 22–23 at the Golden Tulip Resort near Zanzibar Airport. The event will bring together over 1,000 participants from across Africa and beyond, including tech founders, investors, researchers, policymakers, and AI professionals. The […]
Growing Startup Ecosystem in Tanga
June 13, 2025
On June 11, 2025, Zanzibar Startup Association participated in the Mawimbi Summit 2025 at Hotel Slipway, hosted by INCO under the Mawimbi Program. The summit gathered entrepreneurs, business support organizations from Tanga, SmartLab, and key stakeholders from Dar es Salaam to discuss the importance of empowering rural entrepreneurship in Tanzania. Zanzibar Startup Association contributed as a panelist, sharing insights on decentralizing entrepreneurship […]
CSO Week 2025
June 9, 2025
Zanzibar Startup Association at CSO Week 2025 Theme: Pathways to Progress Date: 2nd–6th June 2025 Zanzibar Startup Association (ZSA) had the privilege of representing Zanzibar’s vibrant and emerging startup ecosystem at CSO Week 2025, Tanzania’s premier civil society platform. Held under the powerful theme “Pathways to Progress,” this year’s event brought together changemakers from civil society, public institutions, startups, […]
Africa Governance Internet Forum
June 6, 2025
On May 30th, 2025, Zanzibar Startup Association (ZSA) was honored to be officially invited to the AfIGF 2025 Side Event, co-hosted by THN and GIZ Tanzania. This exclusive gathering brought together 30 influential stakeholders across Africa to engage in high-level dialogue around digital inclusion, with a focus on empowering women, youth, and marginalized communities through […]
News & updates
our partners
By connecting policy-makers, businesses, universities, donors, incubators, and investors, we create an enabling environment that supports the launch, growth, and sustainability of startups in Zanzibar.
Ikram Soraga CEO - ZSA
