What Is The SME Lab?
SME Lab is our flagship research initiative. Its goal is simple: to study the small and medium businesses that are quietly powering Africa's digital economy - and share what we learn with the next generation of innovators and leaders.
Why SME Lab Matters
Small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of many economies - especially in emerging markets across Africa. By gathering data directly from entrepreneurs, startups, and business owners, SME Lab uncovers real world insights that can help:
- Understand how digital tools are used by growing businesses.
- Identify the key challenges small businesses face in going online.
- Highlight opportunities where technology can drive growth and efficiency.
In some countries, SME Lab research also focuses on regional insights - for example tailored findings about Nigerian, Kenyan and South African businesses and their digital journeys.
How Research Helps You
Whether you're a startup founder, small business owner, digital marketer, or developer, research from SME Lab gives you:
- Clarity on how digital technologies are transforming businesses across Africa.
- Actionable insights you can use to grow your business or product.
- Real stories and data from other entrepreneurs like you.
