How to Apply

How to Apply

Ready to innovate? Do you have a well-defined innovative solution for the Ethiopian financial sector? Applications for the first cohort of Regulatory Sandbox are open for 30 days and will close on 30th September, 2024. You can explore the application process and eligibility criteria on this website.

Application Process

The application for the Ethiopian Capital Market Regulatory Sandbox program is available on this website. Carefully review and complete the application form, ensuring you answer all questions thoroughly.

Remember the Following Prerequisites:

Note: Firms with capital market service products or services under the regulatory mandate of ECMA will be considered to enter the sandbox if they meet the following specific prerequisites.

  1. Focus on Ethiopian Consumers: The proposed solution should primarily target and benefit consumers residing within Ethiopia.
  2. Genuine Innovation: The solution should offer something new or significantly different from existing products or services in Ethiopia. This can include novel technology, delivery channels, or business models.
  3. Consumer Benefit: The solution should provide clear advantages for Ethiopian consumers, with a particular focus on supporting Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) and startups.
  4. Ready for Testing: The applicant firm must be prepared to test their solution with real customers in a live market environment. This implies a fully operational product or service with all necessary partnerships and consumer protection measures in place.
  5. Need for Regulatory Support: The application should clearly explain how the sandbox can aid the testing process. This might involve seeking regulatory clarification, navigating ambiguities, testing within a controlled environment, or receiving feedback for further development.

Application Form

Thank you for your interest in the Regulatory Sandbox. Applications for this cohort are now closed. Please check back soon for updates on the next cohort and future opportunities to participate.

Next Steps

The Ethiopian Capital Market Authority (ECMA) will scrutinise all applications. We expect to notify applicants of the outcome with in three weeks after the end of the application window.
If selected for the Sandbox, we will reach out to discuss your testing plan and provide any necessary regulatory tools. The sandbox process involves:

  • Testing Plan Agreement: Collaborate with us to define a clear testing plan for your solution.
  • Regulatory Tools: Receive any necessary regulatory tools or exemptions specific to the sandbox environment.
  • Testing Phase: Conduct your testing with real customers in a controlled environment.
  • Exit Strategy: Develop a plan to transition your solution to the broader market upon successful testing.

Contact us!

Have questions about the Ethiopian Capital Market Regulatory Sandbox? We’re here to help! Feel free to reach out to us at regulatorysandbox@ecma.gov.et and a member of our team will be happy to assist you.

Generic selectors
Exact matches only
Search in title
Search in content
Post Type Selectors

Public Announcement

This public notice is directed at publicly held companies established or raising capital through public subscription under the Commercial Code of Ethiopia. Specifically, it concerns companies with more than fifty (50) shareholders, regardless of the sector or industry in which they operate.
Please select either button for further information.

Announcement - Amharic
Announcement - English
Capital Market Summit 2024

Be part of a groundbreaking event where industry leaders and experts will gather to explore the future of capital markets. Don’t miss your chance to connect, learn, and engage with key players in the industry. Reserve your spot now!

Register now!