How Itana is Pioneering Africa’s First Digital Economic Zone for Tech Talent
Itana is working to give the world a million reasons to believe in Africa.
Itana, a trendsetting Nigerian startup, is set to revolutionize Africa’s tech landscape by creating the continent’s first digital economic zone. This bold initiative aims to foster a dynamic environment where tech talent and service-driven businesses can thrive. Itana draws inspiration from global success stories like Silicon Valley and Dubai’s Digital Free Zone.
Growing Tech Talent in Africa
Founded by Luqman Edu (CEO), Coco Liu (COO), and tech pioneer Iyinoluwa Aboyeji, Itana is anything but ordinary. Aboyeji, the co-founder of African unicorns Andela and Flutterwave, brings deep experience and passion for tackling the barriers facing African startups. Their goal? To create a dedicated space for innovation, free from the usual regulatory hurdles.
Itana is designed to give African tech talent the infrastructure, support, and flexibility they need to grow. The plan is to replicate the success of top global tech hubs, but tailor it for Africa.
Big Moves and Bold Partnerships
Recently, Itana announced a game-changing partnership with the Africa Finance Corporation (AFC) to develop its digital economic zone. The first phase of this project, worth a staggering $100 million, will build a tech campus in Lagos to house around 5,000 people. This campus will be a major hub for Africa’s growing digital economy.
That’s not all. In August 2024, Itana teamed up with Accelerate Africa to support early-stage entrepreneurs. This partnership makes it easier for startups to register within the Itana zone and tap into its many benefits.
The Itana App
Itana has also launched an app that simplifies business registration and banking services. Through the app, companies can register with Nigeria’s digital free zone, access banking features, and enjoy perks like tax exemptions and operational flexibility. The streamlined process is accessible to both local and international businesses, making it a one-stop solution for entrepreneurs.
Why Join Itana?
Joining Itana comes with major advantages. Businesses registered with the digital economic zone get exemptions from corporate income tax, VAT, and import duties. Plus, companies can operate with full foreign ownership and accept payments in any currency. With the Itana app, setting up a business is just a few clicks away.
As Africa’s digital economy rapidly expands—seeing internet users rise from 216 million in 2015 to 728 million in 2024—Itana is perfectly positioned to lead the charge. By offering a supportive framework and a dynamic ecosystem, Itana aims to attract global businesses while fostering homegrown innovation. Its ultimate goal is clear: unlock Africa’s immense economic potential and help build the continent into a global leader in the digital economy.
