The Zanzibar Business Plan Competition 2026: Official Launch Announcement!
The Coprosperity Fund team is excited to announce the official launch of the Zanzibar Business Plan Competition 2026, a first-of-its-kind initiative aimed at funding and supporting high-potential business ideas and entrepreneurs across Zanzibar.
The competition will run from 15th January to 15th March 2026 and is open to small business owners, startups, and entrepreneurs on the island of Zanzibar. The launch event will take place at Mercury’s in Stonetown, Zanzibar, from 3pm to 5pm on Thursday January 15th.
At the end of the competition, the top three best business plans will receive investments and support from the Coprosperity Fund (see below for details), providing these entrepreneurs with an opportunity to scale their ideas and create sustainable impact. Five other businesses will receive certificates of recognition for their outstanding participation.
About the Zanzibar Business Plan Competition
The Zanzibar Business Plan Competition is designed to energize the local startup ecosystem by promoting entrepreneurship, innovation, and inclusive economic growth, including empowering local businesses, community groups, women leaders, and youth-led enterprises among others.
It is the first initiative of its kind in Zanzibar, and an outgrowth of the Coprosperity Fund’s mission to fund and support small businesses in Tanzania and the East African Community.
Coprosperity Fund also welcomes partners, institutions, and other stakeholders to collaborate in supporting this initiative through sharing the Competition announcement and materials on social media and their networks, as well as mentorship, outreach, and ecosystem development.
Competition Details and How to Apply
The Zanzibar Business Plan Competition is a limited time event open to entrepreneurs located on the island of Zanzibar. Details are as follows:
Competition Period: 15th January – 15th March 2026
Eligibility: Entrepreneurs located on the island of Zanzibar.
Funding and Support Awarded to: Top 3 Business Plans. 5 follow up Certificates of Recognition.
1st Prize: $3000 (8,000,000 TZS) Investment and Support
2nd Prize: $1500 (4,000,000 TZS) Investment and Support
3rd Prize: $500 (2,000,000 TZS) Investment and Support
How to apply: Email contact@coprosperityfund.com, or fill out the form on our website here.
Entrepreneurs and partners are encouraged to take part and be part of building a stronger, more inclusive startup ecosystem in Tanzania!
Hi, I do like to fully participate in coprosperity fund for business plan in Zanzibar.
I am interested in participating in this competition to test my business skills.
Ideas on How Zanzibar Can Grow Its Commercial Economy
1. Strengthening the Blue Economy (Ocean-Based Business)
Zanzibar can grow its economy by investing more in the blue economy. This includes modern fishing, fish processing, and export of seafood products. By building cold storage facilities and fish processing industries, Zanzibar can reduce losses and add value to marine products. The government can also promote seaweed farming, ship repair services, and marine transport. Protecting the ocean environment will ensure long-term economic benefits and attract international investors.
2. Modernizing Agriculture and Clove Value Addition
Agriculture is a key sector in Zanzibar, especially clove farming. Zanzibar should move from exporting raw cloves to producing value-added products such as clove oil, cosmetics, medicines, and spices for international markets. Using modern farming methods, irrigation systems, and digital agriculture tools can increase productivity. Supporting farmers with training, finance, and access to global markets will make agriculture more commercial and competitive.
3. Developing Sustainable and High-Value Tourism
Tourism is one of Zanzibar’s strongest economic sectors. Zanzibar can increase revenue by focusing on high-quality and sustainable tourism rather than mass tourism. This includes eco-tourism, cultural tourism, historical tourism, and marine tourism such as diving and sailing. Improving infrastructure, digital marketing, and service quality will attract international tourists who spend more and stay longer. Local communities should be involved so that tourism benefits the wider economy.
4. Integrating the Three Sectors for Strong Commercial Growth
Zanzibar can achieve strong economic growth by linking the blue economy, agriculture, and tourism. For example, seafood and agricultural products can supply hotels and restaurants, while tourism can promote Zanzibar’s local products to global markets. This integration creates jobs, increases exports, and strengthens Zanzibar’s international commercial position.
MY PROJECT
DEVELOPMENT OF ORGANIC HERBAL REMIDIES FOR POULTRY DEASES .
My project focuses on treating poultry diseases using organic herbal remedies to protect both poultry and human health.
The overuse of chemical drugs in poultry leads to drug residues in meat and eggs, contributing to increased human health problems and antibiotic resistance.
This project provides a safe, natural, and sustainable solution for healthier poultry and safer food for people.
Nataka kuanzisha biashara
My project focuses on treating poultry diseases using organic herbal remedies to protect both poultry and human health.
The overuse of chemical drugs in poultry leads to drug residues in meat and eggs, contributing to increased human health problems and antibiotic resistance.
This project provides a safe, natural, and sustainable solution for healthier poultry and safer food for people.
Very nice can’t wait to join these competition
Good
Very much interested. This is a good opportunity for Zanzibarian youths.
It’s inspiring to see such initiatives that support sustainable growth, job creation, and community development in Zanzibar, aligning well with the region’s long-term goals for economic empowerment. This is a prime opportunity for individuals to showcase their skills and ideas, and I look forward to seeing the creativity and potential that will emerge from this competition.
Hi!I’m Panja from Songwe growing Cardamom, Rosemary,Turmeric,Lemon grass and Natural Honey(Stinging and stingless)
Could you join me!!