Exploring the Role of ICT in Empowering Grassroots Innovation and Entrepreneurship: A Cross-Sectional Study of Iringa Region in Tanzania

ICT-enabled grassroots innovation has been extensively researched; however, there is a lack of empirical evidence as to its potential contribution to resource-scarce settings in Africa. This paper aims to explore the transformative role of ICT from idea generation to sustained entrepreneurship using the Iringa region in Tanzania as a case study. This qualitative study delves into the experiences of four grassroots entrepreneurs, revealing the interplay between technology, resource scarcity and the aspirations of those entrepreneurs. Data was collected through semi-structured interviews and was examined extensively using thematic analysis. This revealed how ICT assists innovative young entrepreneurs to identify and utilize available resources to address challenges and to seize growth opportunities. The findings showed that ICT plays three pivotal roles in the establishment and growth of community-based innovative startups: (i) providing access to information and knowledge, (ii) facilitating resource allocation and utilization, and (iii) fostering collaborative and networked ecosystems.