Africa’s innovation scene is about to get a major boost with the launch of the Chanzo OneSpace Startup and Scaleup Accelerator (COSSA) programme.

This groundbreaking initiative, led by the Two Rivers International Finance & Innovation Centre SEZ (TRIFIC SEZ) in collaboration with Horizons Offices Limited’s OneSpace and Chanzo Capital, aims to be a game-changer for tech ventures across the continent.

Empowering Scaleups, Building African Multinationals

COSSA has a primary focus on transforming promising tech scaleups into African multinational corporations (MNCs). By providing a comprehensive support system that addresses the unique challenges faced by African businesses looking to scale, COSSA empowers them to conquer new markets and establish themselves as regional and even global leaders.

The COSSA Advantage

The programme’s strength lies in its ability to offer a powerful combination of resources:

Capital Injection: Funding from Chanzo Capital’s KINGS Fund provides the financial fuel needed to accelerate growth initiatives.
Capacity Building: Mentorship, training, and workshops equip participating companies with the knowledge and skills required for successful scaling.
Community Connection: COSSA fosters connections with a network of investors, mentors, and potential partners, opening doors to valuable collaborations and future funding opportunities.

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TRIFIC SEZ: The Launchpad for Success

COSSA leverages the robust infrastructure and strategic incentives offered by TRIFIC SEZ, Kenya’s first services-focused Special Economic Zone. This translates to several key benefits for participating companies:

Reduced Operational Costs: Tax breaks, customs duty exemptions, and other financial incentives offered by the SEZ status significantly lower the cost of doing business, allowing startups to dedicate more resources to innovation and expansion.
World-Class Facilities: OneSpace provides high-end office spaces and services, creating a professional and conducive environment for growth.
Prime Location: TRIFIC’s strategic location within Nairobi’s prestigious diplomatic blue zone offers easy access to talent, resources, and potential partners.

Beyond the Infrastructure: A Thriving Ecosystem

TRIFIC goes beyond just providing physical space; it cultivates a holistic live-work-play ecosystem. This includes residential areas, hospitality options, social amenities, and access to cutting-edge technology,basically everything a company and its talent need to thrive.

A Stepping Stone to Global Recognition

Upon successful completion of the COSSA programme, participating scaleups gain access to a wider investor audience through a dedicated pitching event. This provides a platform to showcase their growth potential and secure the funding needed to take their ventures to the next level.

The first class of COSSA participants is a testament to the programme’s focus on promoting regional expansion. Companies like SaveApp and CheckUPS COVA from Kenya are prime examples of ventures set to make their mark not just in their home country but across Africa.

Collaboration for Continental Growth

COSSA serves as a shining example of collaboration between leading African institutions. It acknowledges the challenges faced by businesses seeking to expand across the continent and leverages the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCTA) to create a breeding ground for pan-African corporations.

The launch of COSSA marks a pivotal moment for Africa’s tech ecosystem. By empowering homegrown innovation, promoting cross-border collaboration, and providing the tools and resources needed for successful scaling, COSSA has the potential to transform Africa into a global powerhouse for tech innovation.

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With this programme in place, the future of African tech is bright and promising. The support and infrastructure provided by COSSA will enable African entrepreneurs to compete on a global scale and attract investment from around the world.

As more businesses take advantage of the opportunities presented by the AfCTA and COSSA, we can expect to see a surge in innovative solutions and products coming out of the continent.

Africa is set to become a hub for tech innovation, and COSSA is leading the way towards a more prosperous future for the continent.