iceaddis is a major player that is advancing tech innovation in Ethiopia. As a dynamic innovation hub, it offers a collaborative workspace, incubation programs, and a wealth of resources to support the country's entrepreneurs and innovators.
iceaddis is an Addis Ababa-based innovation and entrepreneurship center that is key in strengthening Ethiopia's tech ecosystem. It was founded in 2011 by three former GIZ (German Development Agency) staff in Ethiopia, namely Markos Lemma, Florian Manderscheid, and Oliver Petzoldt,
The heart of its ecosystem lies in its co-working space, an open environment where entrepreneurs, developers, and creatives can come together, share ideas, and collaborate on joint projects. The space fosters the creation of strong networks and stimulates entrepreneurship by offering practical support and mentoring opportunities.
In addition to the coworking space, iceaddis offers incubation programs to help start-ups turn their ideas into successful businesses. These programs offer personalized coaching, access to experienced mentors, and funding opportunities to help entrepreneurs get their businesses off the ground.
Its flagship program is ice180, a 180-day support program designed to enable high-potential entrepreneurs to start their businesses. The program aims to make startups investment-ready “with entrepreneurial knowledge skills, and a strong networking.”
iceaddis is also committed to defending the interests of technology start-ups. As one of the founding members of the i4policy community, it advocates innovative companies and start-up communities to policy-makers and regulators. The innovation center regularly organizes conferences, competitions, and hackathons, enabling participants to share knowledge, develop skills, win awards, and foster collaboration.
To date, it has supported over 190 entrepreneurs, accelerated 35 startups, and incubated 54 companies. It has also organized over 350 events, bootcamps, and hackathons in Ethiopia. The center works with local and international organizations as advisors on youth programs and joint project management in various sectors.
Melchior Koba
