In a historic move to transform its economic landscape, Cape Verde has officially launched TechPark CV, a cutting-edge technology and innovation hub that aims to connect the continents of Africa, Europe, and the Americas through digital excellence.

Backed by a €45.59 million investment from the African Development Bank (AfDB), nearly 2% of the nation’s GDP, TechPark CV is not just an infrastructure project; it’s a strategic leap toward Cape Verde’s ambition to become the “Tech Islands of West Africa.”

Unveiled this week across two campuses in Praia (Santiago Island) and Mindelo (São Vicente Island), TechPark CV is designed to fuel technological advancement, attract international investment, and catalyze job creation. Already home to 23 companies with capacity for 1,500 professionals, the park offers high-speed digital infrastructure, coworking spaces, data centers, training hubs, and a world-class conference center.

The launch event in Praia drew global attention, gathering over 300 companies, including more than 100 international firms and industry giants like Intel, Microsoft, and Smart Africa. The presence of dignitaries such as Cape Verdean Prime Minister Ulisses Correia e Silva and AfDB President Dr. Akinwumi A. Adesina underscored the project’s regional and international significance.

A highlight of the inauguration was a panel on Africa’s digital future featuring leaders from Intel, Microsoft, Smart Africa, and former French Minister Elisabeth Moreno. The discussion focused on how innovation and inclusive technology can drive Africa’s growth in the global digital economy.

“TechPark CV is the realisation of our ambition to transform Cape Verde into a technology hub for West Africa,” said Carlos Monteiro, President of TechPark CV. “Our unique mid-Atlantic location creates a gateway for investment and partnerships linking Africa, Europe, and the Americas. At its core, this project is about building a community where innovation, collaboration, and the spirit of morabeza drive shared prosperity.”

Designated as a Special Economic Zone for Technologies (ZEET), TechPark CV offers generous incentives, including VAT and import tax exemptions and a 2.5% corporate tax rate for qualifying businesses. These benefits will draw a new wave of entrepreneurs, tech startups, and global partners.

From artificial intelligence and blockchain to fintech, big data, and IoT, the park is poised to become a regional powerhouse for emerging technologies. In partnership with ECOWAS, it will also serve as a launchpad for expanding digital innovation across West Africa.