Co-working has been on the rise and rise for the previous decade across the globe. Yet, the wave is just sweeping across Uganda. In the past, it seemed as though it is something only startups can take-on but lately even more established companies are buying into the concept. This is mainly due to the benefits associated with the concept.
Despite all the buzz and advantages of a startup being situated in a co-working space, once one chooses the wrong co-working space, these may not be realized in the long-run. In fact, you might curse ever listening to someone who made the suggestion.
Unlike before where we had just a few spaces to co-work from, now the number has grown. So, with this many co-working space options available in Uganda, how can startups choose the right one?
We took time and spoke to freelancers, startup founders as well as researchers in Uganda to find out why they opted to work from co-working spaces. These were summarized into 5 and should be considered in your search for a co-working space for your Startup in Uganda.
- Internet Costs
This was highlighted by Mwesigwa Daniel who operates from Outbox Hub. When asked the question, he simply said,
I'd consider the speed (and consistency) of the internet - Daniel
It is no secret that internet prices in Uganda are not bearable especially to someone who is freelancing or just starting up. For example, on average, 2GB of MTN monthly internet bundle goes for UGx. 50,000 ($14). Yet, this can not even sustain one for a month.
On top of that, internet in Uganda - just like power - is unreliable - hence the issue of consistency. You wouldn't want to be on a Skype call with a prospect or investor you've chased for long only for the internet to betray you.
Therefore, for a startup or freelancer willing to operate lean, it is better to locate in a co-working space to cut on internet costs but make sure the internet is consistent. This you can do by paying a visit to the available spaces and interacting with the occupants.
2. Price and Packages
Rukundo Collin, who has worked in hubs like Outbox, Hive Colab and Venture Labs highlights this. As a startup in Uganda, chances are you're operating on a very lean or non-existent budget. Therefore, the least thing you want is any unnecessary expenses.
Co-working spaces in Kampala do not offer the same rates. This is because they target varying audiences. Therefore, it is very critical that you do your background research and find the one that matches your budget.
Secondly, different spaces have different packages. For example, there are some that will allow you to work for 3 days a week or others that'll allow you to pay for only the days you have showed up while others may have only fixed monthly rates.
As a startup that's supposed to be lean, you need to be very conscious when it comes to this area. Do your research and ask them questions as much as you can to ensure you're getting the best deal.
3. Location location……. location
Phillip Simbwa, a resident at The Innovation Village and the Founder of Cardiff Network, highlights this. Phillip has several established companies but he wanted to run Cardiff Networks on a lean model.
I stay in Ntinda and The Innovation Village is in Ntinda. It is also a quiet place to work from other than my home and my other office - Phillip
This says one thing; always checkout the inside and neighborhood environment of the co-working space. For example, how far it is from where you stay really matters as well as how quiet or noisy the neighborhood is.
You can't stay in Luzira and opt for a co-working space in Ntinda or can't opt for a co-working space whose surrounding restaurants' menus are out of your budget.
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4. Impression
This mainly has more to do with what the world around you or clients will perceive of you. It is often said that you'll have no other chance to make a first impression. Therefore, the space you're opting to move in should bring out what you want people to perceive of you and your startup.
The first impression should translate well. If i sit at co-working space and let's say Stanbic bank walks in, do they see a student or an entrepreneur? First impression opens or closes doors by default - Phillip
5. Facilities and Occupants
A co-working ideally becomes your office, that's why we recommend that you pay attention to which other facilities are available. Although you're going to work, you should also have fun as well as access to other facilities like restaurants, boardroom etc. Getting a meal to eat shouldn't necessitate walking kilometers. Remember your time is valuable.
Secondly, something that was recommended by Collin, Phillip as well as Emmanuel Chagara - Founder of Milima Technologies, make sure the space has people who think like you. This makes it even more of a home than a work station.
These are the top five factors that we think are most crucial to consider for someone looking at moving into a co-working space. When you choose the right one, a co-working space can be the perfect place to call "home" for a startup looking for a space other than traditional office space.