Tax Masterclass for the Startup Ecosystem
On 28th August, we had the privilege of convening a deeply engaging Tax Masterclass for the startup ecosystem, delivered in partnership with Andersen and hosted at Norrsken. The session brought together founders, ecosystem players and tax experts for an in-depth exploration of the tax considerations that so often determine whether early-stage ventures thrive or falter.
The discussions explored a wide range of issues central to startup growth and sustainability. Participants examined the fundamentals of Rwanda’s tax system, including corporate income tax, value-added tax, PAYE, and withholding obligations and considered how these interact with day-to-day operational realities. Beyond compliance, the conversation extended into the strategic dimensions of company building: how to structure funding and shareholder agreements with foresight, how to anticipate the tax implications of grants and alternative financing pathways, and how to distinguish, both legally and financially,between engaging employees and consultants. Each of these topics was approached with the practical lens of what founders must know to safeguard their runway, maintain credibility with investors, and ultimately unlock scalable growth.
What made the session particularly valuable was not only the depth of expertise shared but also the energy and openness of the participants. The room was alive with probing questions, candid reflections, and a shared commitment to demystifying issues that are often treated as opaque or intimidating. It was a reminder that when founders are equipped with knowledge, they make sharper decisions, avoid preventable pitfalls, and position themselves as investment-ready leaders.
We extend our sincere gratitude to Andersen for their expert guidance, to Norrsken for providing such a convening space, and above all to the founders and participants who came ready to learn, engage, and challenge assumptions. As we reflect on the impact of this Masterclass, we look forward to building on this momentum and continuing to host sessions that inform, empower, and strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem. Here’s to a future of more informed, confident, and investment-ready startups across the continent.