Founders' Perspective: The Offline Work Required to Build an Online Startup

May 15, 5:00 – 6:00 PM (UTC)

Kampala

The Offline Work Required to Build an Online Startup in Africa" highlights the essential groundwork—networking, market research, logistics, trust-building, and local partnerships—needed to successfully launch and scale an online business in Africa's unique, infrastructure-challenged environment. Offline efforts often determine the viability and sustainability of digital ventures on the continent.

Virtual event
Fireside ChatPanel Discussion

About this event


Event Title: The Offline Work Required to Build an Online Startup in Africa.

Description:

Building an online startup in Africa? Be prepared to do a lot of offline work. While the dream is to launch a sleek app or platform, the reality is that success often depends on hustling on the ground—networking, educating users, navigating infrastructure gaps, and building trust in cash-driven, fragmented markets.

In this one-hour virtual discussion, three African startup founders who built digital businesses will share their unexpected journeys—from managing last-mile logistics to convincing skeptical customers, dealing with unreliable internet, and even handling paperwork in government offices. They’ll reveal why building the app was just 1% of the battle, while 99% of the work happened offline.

Why is this especially true in Africa?

Unlike in Europe or North America, where digital adoption is high and infrastructure is reliable, African startups must:

✔ Educate users – Many customers are new to digital services.

✔ Navigate informal economies – Cash still rules, and trust is earned in person.

✔ Solve infrastructure gaps – From electricity to internet, offline fixes are often needed.

✔ Build relationships – Governments, partners, and customers often require face-to-face engagement.

Join us for an eye-opening session that will reshape how you think about building an online business in Africa—because the real work happens offline.

🗓️ [15/05/2025] | 🕒 [09:00PM] |📍 Virtual

Moderated by Jonathan Ntege Lubwama

🔥 Perfect for founders, investors, and anyone interested in Africa’s tech ecosystem!

Check out what happened

Organizers

  • Rodgers Nyanzi

    TrailblzrGO Venture Studio

    Chapter Director

  • Muhanguzi Joseph

    Joshtecs Solutions

    Community Manager

  • Jonathan Lubwama

    Startup Grind Kampala

    Head of Community

Global sponsor

Google Cloud logo

Google Cloud

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