About CivaLabs

We are creating a centralised hub that dismantles systemic barriers and drives sustainable growth for underrepresented minority Innovators and entrepreneurs.

At CivaLabs, we adopt a holistic, inclusive, and action-oriented strategy to create a thriving ecosystem for underrepresented minority innovators and entrepreneurs in the UK. By integrating modern physical infrastructure with tailored services and strategic partnerships, we foster an environment where innovative ideas flourish, businesses grow, and transformative solutions emerge.

  • Our Vision

    CivaLabs is dedicated to transforming the innovation landscape for underrepresented minority groups in the UK.

  • Our Mission

    We catalyse breakthrough ideas and provide comprehensive, culturally relevant support, from state-of-the-art workspaces to expert guidance on business incorporation and funding, empowering our community to drive scalable, market-ready businesses that solve real-world challenges. By integrating cutting-edge technology with expert mentorship, we drive forward-thinking solutions that enhance the UK’s economic and social fabric.

Our Theory of Change

  • Core Problem
  • Inputs
  • Core Activities
  • Outputs
  • Outcomes
  • Impact

Core Problem

Underrepresented entrepreneurs in the UK face systemic obstacles, including:

Limited access to affordable, professional workspaces Gaps in funding and business support (e.g., incorporation, regulatory guidance) Fragmented networks hindering access to mentorship and strategic partnerships

Inputs

- Modern Co-Working Spaces: Affordable, state-of-the-art facilities that provide a productive environment. - Centralised Business Support: One-stop hub offering business incorporation assistance, registered addresses, and regulatory guidance. - Tailored Training Programs: Courses on entrepreneurship, innovation, and digital transformation. - Incubation & Networking Opportunities: Structured mentorship, technical assistance, and direct access to investors. - Strategic Partnerships: Collaborations with universities, councils, tech firms, and community organisations.

Core Activities

Facilitating Collaboration: Provide dynamic co-working spaces that encourage creative problem-solving and innovation.

Capacity Building: Deliver tailored workshops, training sessions, and incubation programs to enhance entrepreneurial skills. Investor Engagement: Organize pitch events, meetups, and matchmaking sessions to connect entrepreneurs with funding opportunities. Business Enablement: Offer comprehensive support for business incorporation, regulatory compliance, and market entry. Community Events: Host networking events, mentorship programs, and career development initiatives.

Outputs

Increased number of entrepreneurs accessing professional workspaces and support services.

Increased number of African entrepreneurs accessing professional workspaces and support services. Enhanced entrepreneurial skillsets through targeted training. Strengthened networks via established connections between entrepreneurs, investors, and mentors. Improved business operations with successful incorporation and regulatory compliance for startups. Expanded opportunities for students and early-career professionals through internships and mentorship.

Outcomes

Empowered entrepreneurs with the capacity and confidence to scale and sustain their businesses.

Improved access to funding, networks, and strategic market opportunities. Creation of innovative, scalable, and impactful businesses contributing to economic and social growth. A robust, inclusive entrepreneurial ecosystem that supports diversity and fosters ongoing innovation.

Impact

A thriving community of entrepreneurs driving innovation and contributing significantly to the UK’s economy.

A replicable model for inclusive entrepreneurship that fosters sustainable, long-term change. Systemic transformation promoting equity, opportunity, and diversity within the UK’s entrepreneurial landscape.

The Humans of CivaLabs

Meet Our Team

Busayo Morakinyo

Executive Director

Dapo Awobeku

Director of Research & Development

Wale Ogunjobi

Director of Business and Entrepreneurship

Solomon Ayodele

Director of Innovation & Digital Transformation

Israel Olaniyan

Programmes Lead