The Ethiopian Capital Market Regulatory Sandbox is a framework established by the Ethiopian Capital Markets Authority (ECMA) that allows businesses to test innovative capital market products and services in a controlled environment under regulatory supervision. This helps ensure that new technologies are safe and beneficial before they reach the wider market.
The sandbox is open to a wide range of firms, including:
Participants can test their products in a safe environment with reduced regulatory barriers, receive tailored guidance from regulators, gain credibility with stakeholders, and potentially accelerate their time to market. Participation also provides access to critical infrastructures and databases needed for testing and development. It is important to note that the program does not provide financial aid to program participants.
Interested parties should first engage with the sandbox team to discuss their proposals. If deemed suitable, they can submit a detailed application through the designated online platform. Applications are reviewed based on predefined eligibility criteria, and successful applicants will collaborate with regulators to develop and execute a testing plan.
Support includes:
While the sandbox is open to all types of financial innovations, it particularly welcomes technologies that can significantly improve financial inclusion, enhance consumer protection, streamline payments and settlements, or strengthen the overall financial infrastructure in Ethiopia.
The testing phase can last up to 12 months, but the duration can vary depending on the specific needs of the project and the outcomes of the initial testing phases.
Upon completion of the testing phase, participants are required to submit a detailed report of their findings and outcomes. Based on this report, a decision will be made regarding the future of the product or service—whether it can transition to full market deployment, needs further testing, or should cease operations.
Address
Minaye Corporate Building 15th Floor
Flamingo Area, Kirkos
Addis Ababa, Ethiopia