Zanzibar Startup Association

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empowering Zanzibar's startup ecosystem

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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.

what we do

Policy & Advocacy

Policy & Advocacy

ZSA represents startup voices in policymaking and advocating for a better business environment in Zanzibar.

Capacity Building

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

Networking

Regular events, forums, and meetups connect startups with investors, mentors and fellow innovators.

Form partnerships

Partnerships help ZSA scale impact by connecting with organizations and individuals who provide resources, expertise, networks, or influence to support startups.

Create awareness

Creating awareness means informing, inspiring, and engaging the public and stakeholders on the value and potential of startups and innovation in Zanzibar.

Activities

ZSA organizes local innovation events and actively engages in external forums to support startups, share best practices, and build strategic, impactful partnerships.

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Number of Startups

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Partnerships formed

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Events Hosted

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news & updates

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 […]
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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, […]
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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 […]
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Funding Opportunities

Secure the capital. Unlock the resources. Bring your startup to life.

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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
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Tanzania Coat of Arms - CORRECT VERSION
Funguo logos-Color version
EN Co-funded by the EU_POS
Option B landscape with tagline v2
UNDP Blue jpg large
smz
Tanzania Coat of Arms - CORRECT VERSION
Funguo logos-Color version
EN Co-funded by the EU_POS
Option B landscape with tagline v2
UNDP Blue jpg large
smz
Tanzania Coat of Arms - CORRECT VERSION
Funguo logos-Color version
EN Co-funded by the EU_POS
Option B landscape with tagline v2
UNDP Blue jpg large

Zanzibar Startup Association

Nurturing Startups in Zanzibar