A Curious Dive into the Ecosystem Shaping How We Work
Is it just me, or are coworking spaces mushrooming all over Nairobi?
From the heart of the CBD to the leafy lanes of Westlands and the startup buzz in Kilimani, it feels like there’s a new shared workspace popping up every few blocks. And these aren’t just empty rooms with desks and Wi-Fi. They’re vibrant, thoughtfully designed environments, filled with creatives, entrepreneurs, remote workers, and digital teams — all building, learning, and connecting.
I’ve spotted spaces like Nairobi Garage, Regus, Hadeed Coworking, Jenga Leo, Ikigai, iHUB, and WOJO, just to name a few. Their aesthetic is modern, their vibe is energetic, and their clientele? Purposeful.
Naturally, I got curious.
Why the sudden boom?
What exactly is the business model?
And who are these spaces really meant for?
The Rise of Coworking in Nairobi
To understand what’s happening, we need to recognize the shifts in how people work — not just globally, but here in Kenya too.
The pandemic accelerated remote work. Startups have become more agile. Freelancing and digital entrepreneurship are now viable career paths. Traditional office leases feel outdated for many early-stage teams. And with that shift came a demand for flexible, functional, and inspiring places to work — without the overhead of a full office setup.
Coworking spaces answered that call.
But as I looked deeper, I realized something else: this isn’t just about office space. It’s about community, structure, and access.
Who Are Coworking Spaces Built For?
Coworking spaces are particularly powerful for:
- Remote workers who need a distraction-free, professional setup
- Freelancers who want to separate home life from work life
- Startups and small teams that need flexibility as they grow
- Digital creatives looking for collaboration and networking
- Young professionals navigating careers in an increasingly decentralized world
They’re also great for people who are still figuring things out — experimenting with ideas, building virtual companies, or simply seeking a more intentional space to focus and learn.
Why This Matters — Especially for Young Kenyans Working Remotely
If you’re a young person navigating remote work, digital gigs, or even job hunting online, coworking spaces can be a game-changer.
Here’s why:
✅ They give you structure
Let’s be honest: working from home can blur the lines between rest and productivity. A coworking space creates routine and helps build discipline.
✅ You get to network organically
You’re surrounded by people building real things — and that creates space for learning, collaboration, and even client opportunities.
✅ You access opportunities
Coworking spaces often host events, programs, or workshops where deals happen, mentors show up, and partnerships begin.
✅ You look more professional
Imagine meeting a potential client in a modern boardroom, versus a noisy café or your kitchen.
✅ You avoid isolation
Remote work can be lonely. Coworking spaces bring back that human touch — even if it’s just sharing lunch with someone in the same boat.
So, How Do These Spaces Make Money?
After looking around and speaking with people in the space, I found that coworking businesses have a surprisingly diverse model. Here are some of their key revenue streams:
1. Flexible Memberships
This is the core. Members pay for what they need — daily, weekly, monthly hot desks or even private offices. It’s flexible and scalable.
2. Event Space Rentals
Most coworking spaces offer bookable areas for trainings, workshops, and networking events. It’s income for them, and a community-building tool.
3. Value-Added Services
High-speed Wi-Fi, printers, lockers, meeting rooms, coffee bars, virtual mail addresses — these extras are either bundled into packages or offered à la carte.
4. Corporate Partnerships
Large companies sometimes use coworking spaces to house remote teams, avoiding the costs and rigidity of traditional leases. It’s lean and efficient.
5. Innovation & Incubation Programs
Some spaces partner with NGOs, VCs, or development organizations to run startup incubators or accelerator programs. These attract funding and elevate the space’s brand.
Final Thoughts: Coworking Spaces Are More Than Desks
Here’s my takeaway: coworking spaces aren’t just a trend. They reflect a broader shift in the way we work — from isolation to interaction, from solo hustle to community-driven growth.
As a young person navigating today’s evolving work culture, you don’t need to have it all figured out. But surrounding yourself with energy, structure, and opportunities can make the journey less lonely — and more productive.
For me, this discovery has opened up a new world of possibility. I’m starting to explore these spaces myself, and I’ll definitely be sharing what I learn along the way.
Have you worked from a coworking space before? What was your experience like? And if not — would you consider it now?
If you found this insightful this next piece will definitely add to your knowing: Top Coworking Spaces in Nairobi