• Algeria launched its first national start-up cluster focused on artificial intelligence and cybersecurity on April 18 in Algiers.
• Authorities aim to expand the country’s start-up base to 20,000 by 2029 under a broader knowledge-economy strategy.
• The cluster integrates universities, research centers and businesses to accelerate innovation and commercialization.

Algeria launched its first national start-up cluster dedicated to artificial intelligence and cybersecurity on April 18 in Algiers, as the government intensifies efforts to build a technology-driven economy by 2028.

The government hosted the launch at the Sidi Abdellah science and technology hub. Authorities positioned the initiative as a new step in structuring the national innovation ecosystem. Officials aim to strengthen the competitiveness of technology start-ups and increase their contribution to the domestic economy.

The cluster brings together start-ups, universities, research centers and private-sector players within a single framework. It supports collaboration on joint projects and promotes the emergence of innovative solutions in strategic sectors, including artificial intelligence, cybersecurity and smart digital services.

The program accepts start-ups from both academic institutions and the broader entrepreneurial ecosystem. Authorities designed this approach to stimulate synergies and accelerate the conversion of innovative projects into commercially viable applications.

The ministries of Higher Education, Knowledge Economy and Telecommunications jointly support the initiative. The cluster forms part of a broader government strategy to scale up the entrepreneurial ecosystem.

President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has set a target of reaching 20,000 start-ups in Algeria by 2029. Authorities plan to rely on universities as a primary source of innovation and skilled talent to meet this goal.

Authorities reported in June that Algeria had registered 1,600 micro-enterprises, 130 start-ups and 1,175 projects labeled as “innovative.” They also recorded more than 2,800 patents filed with relevant institutions.

Algeria is leveraging structures such as clusters to accelerate its transition toward a knowledge-based economy. The government views technological innovation as a key growth driver.

Globally, clusters act as catalysts for competitiveness. They stimulate technological development, enhance regional attractiveness and support the emergence of high-potential companies.

Samira Njoya