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7 Co Working Spaces in Kenya for Entrepreneurs

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  • Nairobi Garage: Largest network in Africa with 5 locations in Nairobi, offering hot desks, private offices, and networking events like "Founder’s Forum."
  • The Mint Hub: Located in Westlands, it provides polished spaces with flexible memberships and regular events like Google Business Group meetups.
  • The Foundry Africa: A creative hub in Westlands with rustic décor, a rooftop lounge, and 24/7 secure access for designers and media professionals.
  • iHub: A tech-focused space in Nairobi supporting startups with mentorship, workshops, and funding opportunities.
  • RealtyBoris: Offers flexible workspaces across Nairobi, from hot desks to private offices, fostering collaboration in open-plan layouts.
  • Ikigai: Wellness-centered workspaces blending nature and productivity, with yoga areas and biophilic designs in multiple Nairobi locations.

These spaces are redefining work environments in Kenya by offering flexibility, collaboration opportunities, and tailored amenities for business growth.

Starting a business in Kenya; the future of coworking spaces

1. Nairobi Garage

Nairobi Garage

Nairobi Garage is the largest coworking space network in Africa and a key player in Kenya’s entrepreneurial scene. With five locations across Nairobi – Kilimani, Spring Valley, Karen, and Westlands – it provides entrepreneurs with well-equipped spaces to help grow their businesses [2][3].

The workspaces are designed for productivity and come with a range of options, including flexible hot desks and private offices. Each space is outfitted with essential business infrastructure. Additionally, meeting rooms and event spaces are available for professional presentations and team collaborations [2][3].

What sets Nairobi Garage apart is its strong focus on building a community. The space organizes networking events and workshops tailored to entrepreneurs’ needs. For example, their monthly "Founder’s Forum" connects startup founders with experienced business mentors, while "Tech Tuesday" sessions dive into the latest technology trends and their applications [2][3].

Another advantage is its multi-location setup. Members can work from any of the five locations, making it easier to stay close to clients or partners. This interconnected network encourages collaboration and business partnerships, which is especially useful for startups looking to scale [4][5].

While Nairobi Garage offers a broad range of support for growing businesses, other spaces like The Mint Hub focus on more specialized entrepreneurial needs.

2. The Mint Hub

The Mint Hub

Situated in Western Heights, Westlands, Nairobi, The Mint Hub provides a polished workspace tailored for entrepreneurs and creatives. It’s designed for startups and business professionals who need a reliable workspace, complete with high-speed internet, boardrooms, and round-the-clock access [2][3].

Membership options are flexible, ranging from Ksh 10,000 for virtual desks to over Ksh 65,000 for private offices, accommodating various business needs. Members benefit from attentive customer service, ensuring a smooth and supportive experience [3].

One standout feature of The Mint Hub is its focus on building connections. The space hosts regular networking events and professional meetups, including Google Business Group gatherings, fostering collaboration and idea-sharing [4]. Members appreciate the well-equipped boardrooms and the professional atmosphere, making it a top choice for meetings and training sessions.

"At the Mint Hub, we foster networking and collaboration to help startups grow."

The hub attracts a diverse group of professionals, including architects, photographers, interior designers, and IT specialists. Additional amenities include reception support, digital advertising services, and storage options [3][4].

While The Mint Hub shines with its strong sense of community, The Foundry Africa offers a different coworking experience tailored to creative professionals.

3. The Foundry Africa

The Foundry Africa

Perched on the 3rd Floor of Nelleon Place, Rhapta Road in Westlands, Nairobi, The Foundry Africa offers a coworking experience tailored for creative entrepreneurs. Its rustic décor and artistic touches create an inspiring atmosphere that balances creativity with professionalism [2].

This space is designed for those in design, media, and other creative fields, blending artistic ambition with business expertise [3]. A standout feature is its rooftop lounge, complete with outdoor garden spaces – an ideal spot for laid-back meetings or brainstorming sessions, setting it apart from more conventional coworking setups [2][3].

The Foundry Africa ensures members have everything they need to work efficiently. Amenities include 24/7 secure access via fingerprint entry, CCTV surveillance, high-speed internet, and reliable backup power. This setup allows members to focus entirely on their projects without worrying about operational hiccups [3][4].

"At The Foundry, we cultivate a collaborative space where creativity and innovation thrive."

Membership starts at Ksh. 20,000 per month, offering access to a vibrant community of innovators. The Foundry takes care of all the logistics, giving entrepreneurs the freedom to concentrate on their work [2][3].

While The Foundry Africa is a haven for creative entrepreneurs, iHub caters more to Kenya’s expanding tech innovation scene [4].

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4. iHub

iHub

Located in Nairobi, iHub has been a key player in East Africa’s tech scene since 2010. This hub has supported over 20,000 members and helped launch more than 300 startups through its programs and resources [2][3].

The space is designed with productivity and comfort in mind, offering high-speed internet, meeting rooms, event spaces, lounge areas, and a kitchen stocked with complimentary refreshments [3]. Membership options are tailored to fit various needs:

Membership Type Features Ideal For
Hot Desk Flexible seating, community access Freelancers, early startups
Dedicated Desk Personal workspace, 24/7 access Growing startups, remote teams
Private Office Enclosed space, dedicated facilities Established companies, teams

What sets iHub apart from standard coworking spaces is its focus on tech innovation. It provides incubation programs, mentorship, training workshops, and funding opportunities specifically for digital startups [2][4]. Regular networking events and seminars further connect entrepreneurs with investors and industry leaders [3].

"iHub is more than just a co-working space; it’s a community of innovators and entrepreneurs working together to build a better future for Africa." – Erik Hersman, Co-Founder of iHub

With its strong support system, iHub has become a central hub for tech startups and innovators in Nairobi. While iHub excels in fostering digital innovation, spaces like RealtyBoris offer premium, tailored work environments for entrepreneurs with different needs.

5. RealtyBoris

RealtyBoris

RealtyBoris offers workspace solutions across Nairobi, making it easy for entrepreneurs to find a convenient location no matter where they are in the city [1]. With multiple sites strategically placed, it’s a practical option for businesses needing flexibility and accessibility.

They provide three main workspace options to suit different needs:

Space Type Best Suited For Key Features
Private Offices Growing Teams Enclosed spaces with dedicated facilities
Hot Desks Solo Entrepreneurs Flexible seating and access to a community
Dedicated Desks Small Startups Fixed workstations with business amenities

The environment at RealtyBoris is both professional and welcoming, designed to boost productivity while encouraging meaningful connections [2]. Thanks to its open-plan layout, the space naturally fosters collaboration, creating opportunities for members to network and share ideas [1][3].

One of RealtyBoris’s standout features is its focus on building a strong community. Shared spaces and facilities make it easier for members to meet potential collaborators, clients, or mentors [1]. Plus, their membership plans are designed to accommodate businesses at various stages of growth, offering flexibility without the need for long-term commitments.

Pricing is competitive, ensuring businesses of all sizes can find a suitable option [1]. Members can adjust their workspace needs as they grow, seamlessly transitioning from hot desks to private offices while staying within the same supportive community.

Though RealtyBoris is a top choice for flexible and professional workspaces, The Village Market provides a distinct mix of work and leisure for entrepreneurs seeking a different vibe.

6. Ikigai

Ikigai

For entrepreneurs seeking a workspace that blends professionalism with tranquility, Ikigai offers a unique environment tailored to business needs.

Note: The previous Section 6 (The Village Market) has been removed, and this section has been renumbered accordingly.

7. Ikigai

Ikigai provides both indoor and outdoor workspaces in five prime Nairobi locations: Westlands, Lavington, Brookside, Lower Kabete, and Riverside [1]. These spaces blend professional-grade facilities with a wellness-centered design to help entrepreneurs thrive [2].

Here’s what Ikigai offers:

  • Fast, secure internet backed by cybersecurity measures
  • Backup power systems to ensure uninterrupted work
  • Meeting rooms and private offices for professional use
  • A specialty coffee bar to fuel your day
  • Flexible indoor and outdoor workspaces [2][3]

Ikigai’s design isn’t just functional – it’s built to boost productivity while supporting mental and physical health. Features like yoga, meditation areas, and biophilic design (bringing nature indoors) create a refreshing alternative to standard coworking spaces [2][4].

"Ikigai’s modern, nature-inspired design makes it a workspace you look forward to every day." – Logan Christi, Member

The space also nurtures a collaborative community. Regular networking events and mixers bring together professionals from diverse fields [3]. Plus, the Ikigai app streamlines everything – from booking meeting rooms to accessing services. Members enjoy 24/7 access to all locations with a single membership, making it a great option for entrepreneurs on the move [2][3].

"If you’re looking for a workspace that responds to your physical, psychological and social wellbeing – Ikigai is the place." – Elmah, Senior Associate at Energy Company

For those curious about what makes Ikigai stand out, personal tours are available. With its emphasis on wellness and productivity, Ikigai is helping redefine coworking spaces in Kenya to meet the evolving needs of entrepreneurs [3][4].

Conclusion

Kenya’s co-working spaces play a key role in supporting entrepreneurs by providing the infrastructure and community needed to cut costs and grow businesses. These spaces go beyond the traditional office setup, encouraging collaboration and fresh ideas.

From Nairobi Garage’s widespread network to Ikigai’s focus on wellness, entrepreneurs can find options tailored to their specific goals – whether it’s networking, flexible work arrangements, or access to specialized services.

What stands out is how these spaces contribute to Kenya’s entrepreneurial scene. Many entrepreneurs report lower expenses, better productivity, and stronger professional networks thanks to these setups.

As the entrepreneurial landscape in Kenya evolves, these workspaces are leading the way in redefining co-working across Africa. Picking the right space, however, means weighing your unique needs. Here are some key factors to think about:

  • Location: Convenience for your team and clients
  • Budget: Aligning with your current business phase
  • Community: A culture that resonates with your values
  • Networking: Opportunities to build connections
  • Amenities: Tools and services that support daily tasks

The future of co-working in Kenya is bright, with spaces increasingly adopting tech-driven solutions and expanding to new areas. These changes ensure entrepreneurs have access to modern, flexible environments that keep pace with their needs.

Whether you’re working solo or managing a growing team, these seven co-working spaces offer environments designed to help your business succeed. Take the time to visit and see which one aligns best with your goals.

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Written by Kevin Mwangi

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