The global business environment is changing, creating new opportunities for Nordic companies in Africa. The continent is developing rapidly – its population is expected to double by 2050, urbanization is accelerating, and digitalization is advancing at pace.

The new guide, Nordic Business Expansion to Africa: A Practical Guide, offers practical advice and insights for Nordic SMEs and startups seeking to understand and take advantage of African markets. While the guide focuses particularly on technology and geospatial companies, its content is useful for any business interested in exploring opportunities in Africa.

Practical tips for market entry

The guide has been produced by Location Innovation Hub in collaboration with the University of Turku. It brings together key findings and recommendations from a webinar series held in spring 2025, featuring experts from organizations such as the World Bank, the European Space Agency (ESA), and Business Finland.

The guide provides practical guidance on topics such as:

• how to find the right local partners and build trust,
• what technology and business opportunities exist across Africa,
• how to navigate funding mechanisms, regulations, and data security, and
• how to plan a successful market entry, from risk management to a step-by-step checklist.

"The startup and internet economy in Africa is projected to reach $180 billion by 2030, while markets are actively seeking partners to co-create technology solutions adapted to local needs. Location Innovation Hub aims to help businesses grow and encourages them to seize opportunities beyond Europe. We have a lot of technological expertise with strong export potential, as long as there is the courage to grow," says Antti Jakobsson, Project Manager at Location Innovation Hub.

Download the guide and explore the webinars

• Download the free guide at www.locationinnovationhub.eu/growthinafrica
• You can also find the webinar recordings on the same page.
• For questions or feedback about the guide, contact the Location Innovation Hub office at locationinnovationhub(a)nls.fi