Launch guide

Validate your idea

Talk to 10+ potential customers. Confirm they'll actually pay your intended price before spending anything.

Write your business plan

Use the Plan Builder in this app — idea, market, money, operations. It becomes your roadmap and your funding document.

Choose your legal structure

Individual enterprise (fastest) or Limited Company (protects personal assets, needed for bigger contracts).

Register at RDB

Register online at org.rdb.rw or any RDB office. Business registration in Rwanda is free and usually completes within 6 working hours.

Get your TIN from RRA

Your Taxpayer Identification Number is issued automatically with registration. Declare taxes monthly via RRA e-tax.

Trading license from your district

Apply at your district office or via Irembo. Food businesses also need a hygiene inspection and food-handler health certificates.

Open a business bank account

Separate business money from personal money from day one. Compare BK, Equity, Access Bank and Umurenge SACCOs.

Set up EBM invoicing

RRA requires EBM e-invoices for registered businesses; VAT registration is mandatory above RWF 20M annual turnover.

Register employees with RSSB

Once you hire staff, register them with RSSB for pension and medical insurance (Mamateli covers you as owner too).

Soft launch & marketing

Open quietly first, fix issues, then promote hard: WhatsApp status, Instagram, local influencers, opening-day offers.