Entrepreneurship Ecosystems and Innovation Hubs in Burkina Faso: A Qualitative Study of East Africa

Entrepreneurship ecosystems and innovation hubs in Burkina Faso are critical for fostering technological advancement and economic growth within East Africa. A qualitative research approach was employed, involving semi-structured interviews with key stakeholders such as entrepreneurs, policymakers, and academic experts. Data collection methods included focus group discussions and document reviews to gather insights into the functioning of these ecosystems. The findings indicate that there is a significant gap in funding and support for innovation hubs, particularly among small-scale enterprises (SMEs). A notable theme emerged regarding the need for more tailored training programmes aimed at enhancing entrepreneurial skills and knowledge transfer within SMEs. Despite initial progress, the current ecosystem lacks sufficient resources to fully capitalize on its potential. The identified gaps highlight areas where further investment and policy support are needed to foster a vibrant entrepreneurship landscape in Burkina Faso. Recommendations include increasing public-private partnerships for funding innovation hubs, implementing targeted training programmes, and developing robust mentorship networks to support SMEs.