The initiative was unveiled at the BIC Somali Innovation Forum in Mogadishu as part of the BIC Somali Project, funded by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).
Somalia has launched a national startup network aimed at strengthening the country’s innovation ecosystem by enhancing collaboration among entrepreneurs, business support organizations, and public institutions.
The initiative was unveiled at the BIC Somali Innovation Forum in Mogadishu under the BIC Somali Project, which is funded by the European Union and implemented by the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO).
The newly created network seeks to link startups with incubators, chambers of commerce, government agencies, and other key stakeholders. Through these connections, entrepreneurs are expected to gain improved access to mentorship, business development support, funding opportunities, and strategic partnerships. The initiative is intended to accelerate entrepreneurship, promote innovation, and contribute to Somalia’s ongoing digital and economic transformation.
Since its establishment, the BIC Somali Project has played a significant role in developing the country’s emerging startup ecosystem through various training and incubation programmes. Organizers disclosed that the project has received more than 3,600 applications across three cohorts.
Approximately 500 entrepreneurs have completed foundational entrepreneurship training programmes, while over 200 startups have received incubation support. In the most recent cohort, assistance was provided to 75 businesses.
The launch comes as Somalia continues to grapple with rising youth unemployment. Nearly 500,000 young people enter the labour market every year, while the economy creates only about 80,000 new jobs annually. Officials believe that strengthening support for startups and small businesses could play a vital role in generating employment opportunities, encouraging innovation, and promoting private sector-led economic growth.
At the same time, the government is advancing efforts to improve the country’s innovation ecosystem through the development of intellectual property legislation. The proposed legal framework is expected to offer stronger protection for innovators and make it easier for registered businesses to attract investment and secure financing.
Officials have also urged entrepreneurs to formally register their businesses, noting that formalisation can enhance credibility, protect intellectual property, and open access to funding opportunities and sustainable business growth.
Backed by international development partners and increasing regional economic cooperation, the national startup network is expected to serve as a stronger platform for innovation, entrepreneurship, job creation, and sustainable private sector development across Somalia.
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