Leveraging its extensive experience, robust network, and forward-thinking vision, StartUp Maroc plays a pivotal role in fostering the growth of entrepreneurial and innovative ecosystems in Morocco and across Africa. The organization empowers aspiring entrepreneurs to transform their ideas into impactful ventures that generate positive social change.
StartUp Maroc is an organization that promotes entrepreneurship in Morocco and across Africa. Founded in 2011 by a group of young Moroccan entrepreneurs, including CEO Zineb Rharrasse, the organization is dedicated to nurturing high-potential entrepreneurs and startups poised to reshape the country, the continent, and the world.
Its comprehensive approach to entrepreneurial support encompasses a diverse range of activities designed to empower entrepreneurs and startups. The organization's flagship initiative, the Startup Africa Summit, serves as a platform for fostering collaboration, exchanging experiences, and exploring investment opportunities. This summit highlights the transformative power of innovation and the diaspora in shaping Africa's future.
Its suite of comprehensive programs to empower entrepreneurs includes the StartUp Maroc Booster program. This flagship initiative focuses on strengthening startups through three key pillars: financing, acceleration/mentoring, and international exposure. The program carefully identifies and accelerates high-potential Moroccan startups, providing them with the necessary capital and guidance to thrive.
With a focus on the Mediterranean region, its MEDVENTURES program aims to accelerate job creation and foster innovation. The program empowers entrepreneurs and ecosystem players to connect internationally, enhancing their skills and fostering collaboration. MEDVENTURES brings together entrepreneurs, investors, companies, NGOs, and public and private initiatives supporting innovation, research, and economic development clusters in Europe and the Mediterranean region.
StartUp Maroc has extended its operations across 17 cities in Morocco, offering support to over 15,000 entrepreneurs at various stages of their entrepreneurial journey, from initial ideation to commercialization. The organization's coaching and support initiatives encompass training courses, acceleration programs, one-on-one support, mentoring, conferences, and pitch events.
With a network consisting of over 400 experts and mentors, it has successfully organized more than 100 activities. It is supported by a number of partners, including The Next Society, Founder Institute, Startup Nations, the Euromed University of Fez, Technopack, the International University of Agadir, the Moroccan Exporters Association (ASMEX), and Orange Corners.
Melchior Koba