ASSEK

ASSEK We are the Association of Startup and SMEs Enablers of Kenya, elevating Startups and SMEs.

  is entering a new era of opportunity powered by entrepreneurship, innovation, digital transformation, and regional int...
05/05/2026

is entering a new era of opportunity powered by entrepreneurship, innovation, digital transformation, and regional integration. As East Africa emerges as a global innovation hotspot, stronger collaboration, aligned policies, and connected ecosystems are critical to unlocking inclusive growth, job creation, trade, and sustainability across the region.

​In response, ASSEK will host the official Pre-Launch Event for the 2nd Edition of the Regional Innovation & Entrepreneurship Summit for East Africa (hashtag ) 2026.

This virtual, high-level convening will officially unveil the summit’s vision, theme, objectives, partnership opportunities, and participation pathways.

​Taking place on 19th May 2026, the 1.5-hour online event will gather regional and global ecosystem leaders to build early momentum, foster collaboration, and position East Africa as a borderless, competitive innovation and entrepreneurship region ahead of one of the region’s flagship summits.

Register here: https://luma.com/2a9sqdgx

ASSEK Regional Chapter - Great Riftvalley EditionKenya’s Entrepreneur Support Organization (ESO) ecosystem has experienc...
04/05/2026

ASSEK Regional Chapter - Great Riftvalley Edition

Kenya’s Entrepreneur Support Organization (ESO) ecosystem has experienced significant growth over the past decade, with increasing numbers of incubators, accelerators, innovation hubs, and business development service providers. However, this growth has largely been fragmented, resulting in duplication of efforts, limited collaboration, and suboptimal impact for entrepreneurs. While Nairobi has emerged as a central hub, regions such as the Great Rift (with Nakuru as a key node) present immense untapped potential across sectors including agribusiness, manufacturing, logistics, tourism, and SMEs. Despite this potential, ecosystem actors in these regions often operate in silos, limiting opportunities for scale, shared learning, and coordinated support. In response, the ASSEK Regional Champions Initiative seeks to establish structured regional chapters that foster collaboration, strengthen ecosystem coordination, and enhance sustainability of ESOs across Kenya. This meetup represents the first convening of ESO leaders and ecosystem stakeholders in the Great Rift region, serving as a foundational step towards building a functional, collaborative regional ecosystem.

Event Details
Date: 9th May
Time: 3:30 PM – 6:30 PM
Venue: Africa Tech Space, Nakuru
Convened by: ASSEK – Regional Champions Initiative
Host (Regional Champion): Africa Tech Space (ATS)
Cost: KES 1,500
Payment details: Mpesa Pay bill: 522522 Account no: 1284184080

Register here: https://bit.ly/GreatRift1

Enquiries reach out to us via [email protected] or James - 0707 828319 or Patrick - 0721 236 204

See you there!

01/05/2026

Celebrating the entrepreneurial spirit, innovation, and the dignity of work—honoring the hands and minds that build our great nation.
At ASSEK, we champion excellence, leadership, and impact this Labor Day.

🤝🏿Join Us for an Ecosystem Webinar on Green Jobs: Advancing Youth Employment in East Africa🌱Youth unemployment in East A...
10/04/2026

🤝🏿Join Us for an Ecosystem Webinar on Green Jobs: Advancing Youth Employment in East Africa🌱

Youth unemployment in East Africa remains high despite growing investments in entrepreneurship and the green economy. At the same time, the region faces sustainability challenges that require coordinated, systemic solutions.

Green entrepreneurship offers a pathway to tackle both issues, but its success depends on strong collaboration across the wider ecosystem, including government, support organizations, funders, entrepreneurs, and communities.

To deepen understanding of these dynamics, ASSEK will host a virtual dialogue bringing together evidence, ecosystem insights and lived experiences to inform more effective youth-focused and sustainable interventions.

Logistical information:
🗓️Date: Thursday 23rd April, 2026
⏰ Time: 7:00 PM - 8:00 PM EAT
🔗RSVP here: https://lnkd.in/dAb5JwJJ

Be part of the conversation shaping more effective, youth-centered, and sustainable ecosystem interventions.

Driving Collective Action to Strengthen Kenya’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem🌍ASSEK in collaboration with the Allan Gray Cen...
10/04/2026

Driving Collective Action to Strengthen Kenya’s Entrepreneurial Ecosystem🌍

ASSEK in collaboration with the Allan Gray Centre for Africa Entrepreneurship (AGCAE) and Stellenbosch University , successfully convened ecosystem leaders and Enterprise Support Organizations in Nairobi for the Kenya Entrepreneurial Ecosystem Building Workshop.

The workshop created a platform for stakeholders to identify key ecosystem gaps and explore priority areas including policy, markets, culture, support, finance, human capital, and data, while shaping actionable steps toward stronger collaboration and a more coordinated ecosystem.

Key Takeaways:
✅Stronger Coordination: Ecosystem actors must work more intentionally to reduce fragmentation and align initiatives.
✅Data and Impact Measurement: Reliable ecosystem data is essential for informed decision-making and measuring impact.
✅Collaborative Action: Pillar-based working groups will drive collective solutions across policy, markets, culture, support, finance, human capital, and data.

We extend our sincere appreciation to the leaders and partners who contributed their insights and expertise during the workshop: Phumlani Nkontwana, representative of Stellenbosch University and the Allan Gray Centre for Africa Entrepreneurship (AGCAE), Mercy Kimalat CEO of ASSEK, Mike Mutungi, CEO of I Choose Life - Africa and Roselyn Marandu-Kareithi (PhD), Country Director Kenya & Stakeholder Management Lead, Eastern Africa at Allan & Gill Gray Philanthropies.

Together, we continue working toward a stronger and more connected entrepreneurial ecosystem in Kenya.

hashtag

Happy Monday!😄Today’s Monday Motivation features a powerful reflection from Salome Ayugi, Associate Director, Sinapis an...
30/03/2026

Happy Monday!😄

Today’s Monday Motivation features a powerful reflection from Salome Ayugi, Associate Director, Sinapis and ASSEK Vice Chairperson of the Board.

She reminds us that;
True leadership is rooted in intentional action, creating strong foundations that empower others to grow, spark innovation, and build thriving ecosystems. It goes beyond titles, focusing instead on cultivating environments where people excel, ideas flourish, and collaboration drives meaningful, lasting impact.

This approach is reflected in the work of Sinapis, a global community equipping entrepreneurs with the tools, networks, and capital pathways needed to succeed. Through intensive training, tailored advisory, and a strong alumni network, Sinapis is shaping investor-ready founders who are building businesses with both social and spiritual impact.

This week, let’s move beyond individual wins and focus on collective success. By investing in people, sharing knowledge, and building inclusive systems, we don’t just lead; we unlock potential, accelerate innovation, and build ecosystems that thrive.

🔗Learn more about Sinapis: https://www.sinapis.org/

SPURRING ECOSYSTEM COORDINATION VIA MULTISTAKEHOLDER PLATFORMS IN NAKURU COUNTY In partnership with SNV_Kenya and ASSEK,...
27/03/2026

SPURRING ECOSYSTEM COORDINATION VIA MULTISTAKEHOLDER PLATFORMS IN NAKURU COUNTY

In partnership with SNV_Kenya and ASSEK, under the IYBA SEED Project, we convened a high-impact culminating Multi-stakeholder Platform (MSP) session in Nakuru County on 19th March hosted by Nakuru Box. The forum brought together diverse ecosystem actors with a shared goal: to establish a structured and functional MSP that enhances coordination while strengthening stakeholder capacity for meaningful engagement.

The engagement prioritized building a cohesive platform where government, private sector, grassroots organizations, business support institutions, youth innovators, and development partners can collaborate effectively. The session emphasized practical approaches to improving policy coherence, addressing ecosystem bottlenecks, and co-creating solutions grounded in the realities of Nakuru’s entrepreneurial landscape.

Key focus areas included:
☑️Structuring and clustering ecosystem actors into a coordinated MSP framework
☑️Enhancing stakeholder capacity for effective participation and policy dialogue
☑️Aligning ongoing programs and ecosystem initiatives to reduce duplication
☑️Joint identification of priority gaps affecting enterprise growth
☑️Developing actionable, locally driven solutions for ecosystem strengthening

Discussions underscored the value of coordinated multi-stakeholder action in unlocking inclusive economic opportunities. By advancing a structured MSP and investing in stakeholder capacity, participants committed to strengthening collaboration, promoting inclusive entrepreneurship, and expanding opportunities for women and youth across Nakuru County.

Special Acknowledgement to our partners:
GIZ, Enabel, Expertise France, and the Slovak Agency for International Development Cooperation.

Sincere appreciation to Mercy Kimalt, Nduta Ndirangu, Vincent K. Kimosop and the entire team for their invaluable support and contributions.

Building partnerships | Aligning action | Accelerating inclusive entrepreneurship in Nakuru.

CATALYZING ENTREPRENEURIAL COLLABORATION IN KISUMU COUNTYIn partnership with SNV and ASSEK, under the IYBA-SEED Project,...
25/03/2026

CATALYZING ENTREPRENEURIAL COLLABORATION IN KISUMU COUNTY

In partnership with SNV and ASSEK, under the IYBA-SEED Project, we advanced a dynamic Multistakeholder Platform (MSP) session in Kisumu County on 17th March hosted by WiseHub. The engagement focused on two key priorities:
✅Structuring and grouping existing ecosystem actors into a functional MSP for effective county coordination
✅Capacity building to strengthen stakeholder participation and collaboration.

The session aimed to enhance policy alignment, address ecosystem challenges, and develop practical, realistic solutions that reflect local realities. By fostering structured coordination among stakeholders, the forum provided a platform for dialogue, knowledge exchange, and collective action to strengthen Kisumu’s entrepreneurship ecosystem.

Key areas of focus included:
✅Mapping and organizing ecosystem actors for coordinated engagement
✅Building stakeholder competencies for meaningful policy contribution
✅Promoting alignment of programs and ecosystem initiatives
✅Facilitating joint identification of priority ecosystem gaps
✅Designing actionable and locally responsive solutions

The discussions reinforced the importance of coordinated multi-stakeholder engagement in driving sustainable ecosystem development. Through the formation of a structured MSP and targeted capacity strengthening, stakeholders are better positioned to promote inclusive entrepreneurship, expand opportunities for women and youth, and support sustainable economic growth at the county level.

Special Acknowledgement to our partners:
GIZ KENYA, Enabel, Expertise France, and the Slovak Agency for International Development Cooperation

Special gratitude to Mercy Kimalat, Nduta Ndirangu, Vincent K Kimosop and the entire team for their outstanding work.

BUILDING MOMENTUM FOR INCLUSIVE ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN UASIN GISHU COUNTYIn collaboration with SNV_KenyaSNV ASSEK, under th...
25/03/2026

BUILDING MOMENTUM FOR INCLUSIVE ENTREPRENEURSHIP IN UASIN GISHU COUNTY

In collaboration with SNV_KenyaSNV ASSEK, under the IYBA SEED Project we successfully hosted a dynamic Multi-stakeholder Platform (MSP) session in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County, on 16th March. The forum brought together community-based entities, county government representatives, private sector actors, civil society, youth innovators, business support organizations, and development partners, all committed to strengthening the local entrepreneurship ecosystem.

The discussions centered on two main priorities: establishing a functional MSP for effective county coordination and enhancing the capabilities of community-based entities. These initiatives aim to enhance policy alignment, address intricate ecosystem challenges, and collaboratively develop practical solutions that align with local realities.

Through the session, participants explored:
✔️ Promoting community engagement in policy dialogue
✔️ Fostering policy coherence across ecosystem stakeholders
✔️ Collaborative problem-solving to address ecosystem challenges
✔️ Co-creating strategies for sustainable entrepreneurship ecosystem growth
✔️ Setting up structures for ongoing multi-sector engagement

The session highlighted the crucial role of community-based entities in informing responsive policies and advancing inclusive development. Participants expressed strong commitment to forming a coordinated MSP framework that enhances collaboration, aligns county priorities, and strengthens ecosystem support for entrepreneurs.

Special Acknowledgment to Our Partners:
GIZ, Enabel, Expertise France, and the Slovak Agency for International Development Cooperation

Through these partnerships, we continue to nurture coordinated action, build robust networks, and advance inclusive entrepreneurship ecosystems that expand opportunities for women, youth, and MSMEs in Uasin Gishu County.

Thank you Kimalat, Ndirangu, K Kimosop, Chepkemoi Magdaline and the rest of the team for their support.

Happy International Women's Day 2026!This  , we champion the call: Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls. Wom...
08/03/2026

Happy International Women's Day 2026!

This , we champion the call: Rights. Justice. Action. For ALL Women and Girls. Women still hold only 64% of the legal rights men do, a reminder that equality demands action—not rhetoric. At ASSEK, we’re working to make opportunity accessible to every woman entrepreneur in Kenya. With a network of 200+ ESOs, we strengthen an inclusive startup ecosystem through advocacy, capacity building, and collaboration.

We’re also pushing to decentralize entrepreneurship support so women across all counties—not just major cities—can access funding, digital tools, and innovation hubs.

This , we reaffirm our commitment to expanding access, removing barriers, and ensuring no woman is left behind.

When women rise, ecosystems thrive.

Happy New Week! Today’s Monday Motivation comes from Mr. Isaiah Gichana CPA(K), ACCA,MBA,CRM, - Finance Director at Afri...
23/02/2026

Happy New Week!

Today’s Monday Motivation comes from Mr. Isaiah Gichana CPA(K), ACCA,MBA,CRM, - Finance Director at Africa Biogas Limited and serves as Treasurer on ASSEK Board.

He reminds us that:

“Every shilling has a purpose, every decision has an impact, and with careful stewardship, we help our entrepreneurial community grow stronger together.”

As we step into the week, let’s commit to financial stewardship for the sustainability of entrepreneurship initiatives that empower MSMEs to be profitable, job creators, and drivers of inclusive economic growth.

May our decisions—big or small—reflect intentionality, accountability, and a shared vision for a thriving MSME ecosystem. Here’s to a productive week anchored in purpose and responsible action!


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Pinetree Plaza, Kaburu Drive
Nairobi

Opening Hours

Monday 08:30 - 17:30
Tuesday 08:30 - 17:30
Wednesday 08:30 - 17:30
Thursday 08:30 - 17:30
Friday 08:30 - 17:30

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