Overall, the findings highlight Côte d’Ivoire’s growing prominence as a strategic hub for innovation and entrepreneurship on the continent, supported by policy reforms and an improved regulatory environment.
Ivory Coast has emerged as one of Africa’s most innovation-friendly economies, securing a place in the continent’s top 10 in the latest Innovators Business Environment Index (IBEI) 2026 published by StartupBlink. The report highlights the country’s progress in creating a supportive environment for entrepreneurs and innovators, and reflects sustained national efforts to reduce barriers to starting and operating a business.
According to the index, Côte d’Ivoire currently ranks among the top 10 African countries in terms of business climate and has demonstrated a strong commitment to improving policies to support innovation and startup growth. The report also notes that the country is leading the way in West Africa, receiving the highest overall rating for business climate conditions in the region.
Globally, Côte d’Ivoire’s performance reflects a growing momentum in the use of what the report calls “friction-reducing policy instruments” aimed at making it easier for entrepreneurs to start and expand companies. This progress signals a shift in African entrepreneurship. Countries such as Egypt and Nigeria that have traditionally dominated the startup discussion due to their market size are being challenged by smaller economies that are improving their fundamental business environments.
IBEI 2026 suggests that Ivory Coast’s improved regulation and governance places it ahead of Egypt and Nigeria in terms of the fundamentals needed to operate a business. While Egypt often faces challenges related to bureaucratic complexity and Nigeria continues to generate a large number of startups due to its large market, Ivory Coast’s reforms strengthen its position in this particular index.
This report highlights several areas where Ivory Coast is performing particularly well. The country ranks first in Africa for business incentives and presents an attractive fiscal and financial situation for entrepreneurs and investors. It also has a strong tax performance, with one of the most favorable tax frameworks in sub-Saharan Africa, including competitive capital gains and dividend tax rates.
Additionally, Côte d’Ivoire also scores highly in market perception, reflecting positive ratings in governance, political stability, and international liquidity. These factors have strengthened the country’s reputation as a reliable and business-friendly gateway for entrepreneurs and investors seeking access to African markets.
Overall, the findings highlight Côte d’Ivoire’s growing prominence as a strategic hub for innovation and entrepreneurship on the continent, supported by policy reforms and an improved regulatory environment.
