Harare, Zimbabwe #934 Position in Global Startup Ecosystem Ranking in 2025

Startup Ecosystem in Harare 🇿🇼

TL;DR

Harare is currently ranked as the 934th city in the Global F/MS “Best Cities for Startups” Index. The city offers a unique blend of entrepreneurship and innovation, attractive for those willing to navigate its challenges.

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Startup-Friendly Stuff 📈

1. Ease of Company Registration

• Business Registration: Registration processes are relatively straightforward, though they can be slower than desired.
• Startup Incentives: Some government programs and initiatives aim to foster tech startups, providing essential resources.

2. Employment Law 🏢

• Labor Regulations: Strong regulations protect workers; however, compliance can be tricky for fledgling startups.
• Hiring Foreign Talent: Though work permits are required, the application process is generally clear.

3. Taxation 💰

• Corporate Tax Rate: The standard rate hovers around 25%, with certain incentives available for startups engaged in innovation.
• VAT Regulations: A VAT rate of 14.5% applies, which is competitive in the region.

4. Quality of Life 🌆

• Living Standards: Moderate; Harare boasts several amenities, but the cost of living can vary significantly across neighborhoods.
• Culture and Leisure: The city is rich in culture, with numerous parks, galleries, and culinary options reflecting its vibrant heritage.

5. Bureaucracy 🗂️

• Ease of Navigation: While there is a governmental framework to support startups, bureaucratic hurdles can be a challenge.
• Government Support: Recent initiatives showcase increased efforts to support innovation and startups.

6. Visas for Entrepreneurs 🌍

• Startup Visas & Permits: Options exist for business visas, although securing them may require patience.
• Residency Options: Various pathways are available for entrepreneurs looking to settle in the city long-term.

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Startup Community 🤝

7. Networking Events

• Regular meetups, hackathons, and workshops help foster community engagement.
• Local conferences attract a mix of local startups and international participants.

8. Subsidies and Funding 💵

• Growing availability of grants and financial programs aimed at supporting innovative startups.
• Initiatives from NGOs and foreign investors actively seek to bolster the local ecosystem.

9. Venture Capital (VC) Presence

• Investments: The VC landscape is emerging, with a focus on tech startups.
• Major Firms: A few local and international firms are beginning to invest in promising businesses, although options remain limited compared to larger ecosystems.

10. Incubators & Accelerators 🚀

• A handful of incubators are dedicated to supporting startups in agriculture, fintech, and tech innovation.
• Programs often include mentorship opportunities and light funding options.

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Technology & Industry Priorities 🔧

• Focus Areas: Fintech, agritech, e-commerce, and health tech are currently prioritized in Harare’s startup scene.
• Government Initiatives: Emphasis on sustainable development and technology-driven solutions in key industries.

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Business Culture 🏙️

• Language: English is the primary language of business, making it accessible for foreign entrepreneurs.
• Work Environment: Collaborative and resourceful, with a community-oriented approach toward problem-solving.

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General Pros and Cons ⚖️

Pros:

• A nurturing yet evolving tech ecosystem provides opportunities for resourceful entrepreneurs.
• Growing government focus on innovation and support for startups.
• An emerging community of local entrepreneurs eager to collaborate and share resources.

Cons:

• Infrastructure challenges can hinder operational efficiency.
• Investment opportunities are still in their formative stages, leading to potential cash flow issues.

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Initiatives for Female Entrepreneurs 👩‍💼

• Increasingly supportive initiatives aimed at empowering women in business.
• Networking groups and programs specifically designed to enhance the visibility of female-led startups.

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Harare offers a distinctive environment for ambitious entrepreneurs ready to make their mark in a developing startup ecosystem. 🚀

MeanCEO Index for Harare 🇿🇼

Harare may not be the first city that comes to mind as a startup hub, but it has its unique advantages for female entrepreneurs. Here’s how the city scores based on the MeanCEO Index criteria that assess its friendliness towards women in business.

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1. Weather ☀️

• Score: 6/10
  • Harare enjoys a mild climate with a good number of sunny days, especially in the dry season. Winters are relatively warm, but the rainy season can be a challenge for outdoor activities.

2. Location 🏞️

• Score: 4/10
  • While not located by the coast, Harare’s beautiful parks and proximity to wildlife are notable. However, access to beaches and warm waters isn’t available, limiting the leisure experience.

3. Women Friendly 👩‍💼

• Score: 6/10
  • There are growing initiatives aimed at empowering women in business, yet traditional gender roles can pose challenges. However, support from local organizations is increasing.

4. Foreigners Friendly 🌍

• Score: 7/10
  • Overall, Harare is relatively welcoming, especially in urban settings. The local community shows openness to making new friends, though cultural adjustments may be needed.

5. English as a Business Language 📚

• Score: 10/10
  • English is the primary language of business, making it very accessible for foreign entrepreneurs, particularly women looking to navigate the landscape.

6. Delicious Cuisine 🍽️

• Score: 5/10
  • While Zimbabwean cuisine has flavorful offerings, it often incorporates onions, which might alienate some. However, local dishes can be healthy, contributing positively to the score.

7. Ease of Getting Married and Starting a Family 💍

• Score: 5/10
  • The dating scene varies, but many individuals are family-oriented and supportive. However, the pressure of societal norms can sometimes complicate personal relationships.

8. Medicine 🏥

• Score: 4/10
  • Access to healthcare can be variable, with wait times sometimes lengthy and costs fluctuating. Booking appointments may require persistence.

9. Ease of Transportation & Traveling 🚍

• Score: 5/10
  • Public transport options exist, but they’re often limited. Ride-sharing services are available, though the lack of a robust public transport system can be cumbersome.

10. Startup Mindset 💡

• Score: 7/10
  • The entrepreneurial spirit is evident, with communities willing to support one another. However, the prevalent challenges of infrastructure and investment can dampen some ambitions.

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MeanCEO Index Score: 57/100 🌟

Harare presents a mixed bag for female entrepreneurs. While there are some supportive elements like the use of English in business and a budding network for women, challenges such as fluctuating healthcare access and the need for improved infrastructure remain. However, for those agile enough to adapt and innovate, Harare offers a nurturing ground for entrepreneurial pursuit.

Here’s to tackling the startup landscape in Harare! 🚀