Positioning itself as a major player in technological innovation in Ethiopia, iceaddis offers collaborative workspace, incubation programs and resources to support local entrepreneurs.
iceaddis is an entrepreneurship and innovation center based in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, playing a role in strengthening the local technology ecosystem. It was co-founded in 2011 by CEO Markos Lemma, Oliver Petzoldt and Florian Manderscheid.
It relies on its co-working space to bring together entrepreneurs, developers and other creatives to share ideas and collaborate on projects. The space fosters the creation of viable networks and stimulates the entrepreneurial spirit by providing practical support and mentoring opportunities.
iceaddis offers incubation programs to help start-ups turn their ideas into reality. These involve personalized coaching by experienced mentors, as well as access to funding opportunities. The center’s flagship program is ice 180, designed for high-potential entrepreneurs. It lasts 6 months, and aims to prepare for investment in the start-ups supported through effective entrepreneurial know-how and networking.
A founding member of the i4policy community, iceaddis represents the interests of the innovative business community to political authorities and regulators. It has also become a hub of events and activities for entrepreneurs. Conferences and competitions are regularly organized, enabling participants to gain knowledge and skills, and promote themselves.
Iceaddis has already accelerated 35 start-ups, supported over 190 entrepreneurs and incubated 54 companies. It has organized over 350 bootcamps and hackathons in Ethiopia. It works with local and international organizations as a consultant on youth programs, and on the joint management of multi-sectoral projects.