AfriLabs, the pan-African network that admitted its 100th member hub in 2018, has continued growing as one of the continent’s largest connectors of tech and innovation hubs, giving African entrepreneurs a shared pipeline of resources, mentorship and cross-border collaboration.
What a network like AfriLabs actually does
Rather than running programmes directly, AfriLabs connects individual innovation hubs, incubators and accelerators across dozens of African countries, letting them share knowledge, collaborate on programming and build collective capacity that no single hub could achieve alone. This network effect matters because a hub in a smaller market gains access to resources, partnerships and best practices developed across the entire continent, not just locally.
Why hub networks matter for individual entrepreneurs
For an entrepreneur working with a local innovation hub, being part of a larger continental network can mean access to cross-border programmes, investor introductions and peer connections that a standalone local hub simply couldn’t offer. South African hubs have been part of this network from early on, giving local entrepreneurs a direct line into opportunities happening well beyond South Africa’s own borders.
What to look for in a local innovation hub
Beyond the physical space and basic mentorship a hub provides, entrepreneurs should ask whether it belongs to a broader network like AfriLabs, since that affiliation often signals access to a wider pool of programmes, funding opportunities and cross-border connections than an isolated local initiative can offer. A hub’s track record of alumni who’ve gone on to raise funding or scale internationally is a more reliable signal than its physical facilities alone.
Frequently asked questions
What does AfriLabs actually do?
It connects individual tech and innovation hubs across Africa, letting them share resources, knowledge and collaborative programming at a continental scale.
Why does being part of a hub network matter for entrepreneurs?
It gives access to cross-border programmes, investor introductions and peer connections that a standalone local hub couldn’t offer alone.
Are South African hubs part of the AfriLabs network?
Yes, South African hubs have been part of the network since its early growth, connecting local entrepreneurs to continent-wide opportunities.
What should entrepreneurs check when choosing a local innovation hub?
Whether it belongs to a broader network, and its track record of alumni who’ve gone on to raise funding or scale their businesses.
Is a hub’s physical space the most important factor to consider?
No, its network affiliations and alumni track record are generally more reliable indicators of real value than facilities alone.
Originally published in June 2018. Updated September 2026.
Small business and innovation support via the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition.
Further reading
Originally published in June 2018. Updated September 2026 to confirm AfriLabs has continued growing well past its 100th member hub, and link current examples of South African entrepreneurs benefiting from hub-network support.
