Who We Are!

Labs for Development began in March 2020 as a youth-led, Sudan-focused organization. We recognized the need for greater collaboration among young civic innovators across Sudan, as many of the challenges we address—such as misinformation, conflicts, gaps in civic education, and limited capacity within civic organizations—transcend regional boundaries.

Today, we operate from Nairobi, Kenya, and Cairo, Egypt, providing coworking spaces, media production support, and capacity-building programs tailored to Sudanese youth both inside and outside Sudan.

Our Mission!

We support youth-led initiatives through mentorship, training, and resources while combating misinformation and hate speech and promoting civic engagement, democracy, and transitional justice. We equip young people with the skills to drive meaningful change in their communities. Through our resources and networks, we help youth connect, collaborate, and scale their impact.

How We Work

At Labs for Development, we follow five core approaches to empower Sudanese youth, women-led initiatives, and civic actors. From capacity building to content creation, coworking spaces, research & policy analysis, and tech & AI solutions, each approach strengthens local leadership, fights misinformation, and drives collaboration for sustainable progress. By blending these methods, we create an environment that fosters resilience, innovation, and impactful change in and beyond Sudan.

1. Capacity Building and Training

Labs for Development empowers youth- and women-led initiatives by equipping them with the skills and resources needed to grow, thrive, and sustain long-term impact. Through tailored workshops, hands-on training, mentorship, and networking opportunities, we strengthen their leadership, organizational, and advocacy capabilities.

Our programs focus on strategic planning, financial management, digital literacy, and effective communication, enabling these initiatives to navigate challenges, expand their reach, and drive meaningful change within their communities.

2. Content Creation

Harnessing the power of media, we combat hate speech, disinformation, and harmful narratives by promoting media literacy, fact-based storytelling, and responsible digital engagement. Through compelling and informative content, we foster civic awareness, encourage democratic participation, and advance transitional justice, peace, and coexistence. Our goal is to empower communities to engage in constructive dialogue, challenge misinformation, and advocate for positive social change.

3. Coworking Spaces and Events

Labs for Development operates dynamic coworking spaces in Nairobi and Cairo, designed to support Sudanese civic and media actors. These spaces foster collaboration, networking, and collective action, providing a secure and resource-equipped environment where individuals and organizations can work together. Beyond offering essential facilities, they serve as hubs for capacity building, skill development, and knowledge exchange. Our spaces also host events, workshops, and training sessions, empowering Sudanese change-makers with the tools and support needed to amplify their impact in media, civic engagement, and advocacy.

4. Research & Policy Analysis

We have launched Two Forty Nine Company as a research and development arm of Labs for Development specializing in policy analysis and evidence-based advocacy. Registered in Kenya, it supports informed decision-making and innovative solutions for civic engagement and social impact, producing research that drives actionable policies and transformative initiatives.

5. Tech Solutions

We equip civil society organizations with innovative tech solutions and training, enabling them to operate efficiently, scale their impact, and achieve long-term sustainability. By harnessing the power of AI and digital tools, we empower organizations to streamline their operations, enhance advocacy efforts, and drive meaningful change in their communities.

Our Previous Projects

We partner with local and international organizations to develop initiatives that empower Sudanese youth, amplify diverse voices, and encourage constructive engagement. From media training and peacebuilding efforts to digital advocacy and civic innovation, each project is crafted to address real needs and create lasting impact across Sudan and East Africa.

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Partnerships & Funds

We’re proud to work with a diverse group of donors and partners who share our commitment to empowering youth and fostering social change. Current and past supporters include:

Contact Us

Have a question, need some info, or just want to say hi?

Interested in our coworking spaces, joining an upcoming program, or exploring partnership opportunities? We’d love to hear from you.

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