Nairobi Startups Receive Training in Export Readiness

Nairobi County partnered with international trade organizations and local incubators to launch a Startup Export Readiness Training Program. The initiative was designed to equip startups with the skills, knowledge, and tools needed to access global markets. County officials emphasized that the program aligns with Kenya’s Bottom-Up Economic Transformation Agenda (BETA), which prioritizes entrepreneurship and trade as drivers of inclusive growth.
The training covered key areas such as international trade regulations, export financing, digital trade platforms, and market entry strategies. Startups were also introduced to risk management tools, including export insurance and compliance frameworks, to help them navigate challenges in cross-border trade. By embedding export readiness into startup development, Nairobi aims to strengthen its role as East Africa’s innovation and trade hub.
Entrepreneurs praised the program for offering practical guidance and mentorship, noting that it helps bridge critical gaps in knowledge and financing. Analysts highlighted that export readiness training is particularly transformative for Nairobi startups, as it enables them to scale beyond local markets and tap into regional and global value chains. The program also complements earlier initiatives such as the Export Financing Platform (May 2025) and the EU–Kenya Business Forum (May 12–13, 2025), which focused on digitalising trade.
Looking ahead, Nairobi County plans to expand the training to include creative industries, agritech, and green startups, ensuring that diverse sectors benefit from global trade opportunities. Officials believe that by embedding export readiness into entrepreneurship programs, Nairobi can accelerate job creation, attract investment, and reinforce its position as a gateway economy for Africa.