Somalia's Innovation Hub iRise, Helping Build Next Gen Entrepreneurs and Tech Leaders

iRise Hub is a Somali innovation hub helping to build the country’s next generation of entrepreneurs and technology leaders. The organisation was co-founded by Abdihakim Ainte (CEO) and launched in 2016 in Mogadishu as one of the first community-driven innovation spaces in Somalia.

Designed to nurture local talent and ideas, iRise Hub provides entrepreneurs with mentorship, co-working space, incubation programs, and practical skills training—creating an environment where young innovators can transform ideas into scalable businesses.

At its core, iRise Hub focuses on equipping Somali youth with the tools and networks needed to succeed in the digital economy. Through startup bootcamps, hackathons, accelerator programs, and mentorship initiatives, the hub supports ventures across sectors including fintech, health-tech, agriculture, and digital services.

Over the years, iRise Hub has grown into a vibrant ecosystem with over 40,000 community members, 80 mentors, and 20+ innovation programs, helping nurture thousands of aspiring entrepreneurs and contributing to the rise of Somalia’s startup culture.

Since its launch, iRise Hub has organised more than 350 events and supported over 3,000 startups, making it one of the most active innovation platforms in the Horn of Africa.

The hub regularly collaborates with international development agencies, universities, and technology partners to expand opportunities for Somali entrepreneurs and strengthen the country’s digital economy.

For its leadership in fostering entrepreneurship and youth innovation, iRise Hub and its founder Abdihakim Ainte have gained recognition within regional and global innovation networks, positioning the hub as a key catalyst for Somalia’s growing tech ecosystem.