Kigali - Norrsken Foundation has made significant strides in fostering impact entrepreneurship and technological innovation in Rwanda, according to Abraham Augustin, an advisor at the foundation. Established in Rwanda three years ago, Norrsken has become a pivotal part of the country's tech ecosystem, promoting businesses that positively impact society and the environment.
According to Africa News Agency, Norrsken’s mission centers on leveraging entrepreneurship as a force for societal and environmental good. "We believe that technology is a powerful tool to amplify impact," Augustin stated, highlighting how technology enables solutions to reach more people effectively. Norrsken supports this mission through its hubs, which provide resources, networking, and learning opportunities for impact entrepreneurs. The Kigali hub is home to over 300 companies, with some receiving significant investments and recognition, such as Edencare, which joined the Y Combinator program in San Francisco.
The choice of Rwanda as the location for Norrsken's first African hub was strategic, driven by the country's ambition to become a tech hub. This decision has been vindicated by the growth and success of the Kigali hub, which now plans an expansion to accommodate up to 1,500 members. "We have also explored similar opportunities in other parts of Africa, Europe, and the US," Augustin explained, indicating potential future expansions driven by local leadership and favorable conditions.
Norrsken's influence extends beyond its physical spaces. It has actively participated in shaping policies such as the Rwanda Startup Act, significantly impacting the local tech landscape. Moreover, the foundation manages two funds, Norrsken22 and the Africa Seed Fund, which invest in growth-stage and early-stage companies across the continent, respectively.
As for the broader appeal of the Rwandan and African tech sectors, Augustin is optimistic. "There are definitely opportunities to make investments," he said, suggesting that the variety of investment vehicles, including venture capital, grants, and private equity, makes Africa attractive to diverse investors.
Looking forward, Norrsken aims to catalyze more investment and foster companies that address global environmental challenges while providing attractive workplaces. "Our goal is to catalyze the capital that allows these companies to grow," Augustin concluded, reflecting on the foundation's ambitions to influence impact entrepreneurship from Rwanda across Africa and globally.