Startups from Tunisia, Senegal, and Morocco Encouraged to Apply for the Pan-African OST Initiative

Open Startup, a prominent initiative fostering entrepreneurial growth, has officially commenced the application process for its esteemed pan-African OST (Open Startup Tunisia) programme. This initiative is dedicated to nurturing early-stage startups and cultivating the talents of promising individuals across Tunisia, Senegal, and Morocco.

The OST Programme is a prestigious collaboration with the renowned Columbia Engineering and Columbia Business School, based in New York. The programme is scheduled to span five months, commencing in September 2024 and culminating in January 2025. It is meticulously crafted to provide comprehensive support to a cohort of 30 startups, with an equal representation of 10 from each participating country. The primary objective is to guide these startups from their nascent proof of concept phase to the development of a robust minimum viable product (MVP).

The participants of the OST Programme will be endowed with an array of invaluable resources tailored to their specific needs. This includes specialized training modules and mentorship sessions led by industry experts, which are designed to foster their entrepreneurial skills and business acumen. Additionally, the programme facilitates access to a vast international network, offering startups the opportunity to connect with global leaders and innovators in their respective fields.

One of the most enticing aspects of the programme is the non-dilutive financial incentive—a collective cash prize pool of US$50,000, distributed with no equity requirements. This significant financial boost aims to propel the startups’ growth and development, enabling them to scale their operations and refine their product offerings.

Moreover, the OST Programme includes a series of planned excursions to international hubs such as New York, Tunisia, and Morocco. These trips are strategically designed to provide the participants with substantial international exposure, broaden their horizons, and facilitate networking opportunities with potential investors, partners, and customers.

The programme offers two distinct tracks to cater to the diverse needs of the entrepreneurial ecosystem. The first track is tailored for early-stage startups that have already established a proof of concept and are poised to develop their MVP and scale their market presence. The second track is designed for individuals who possess a strong entrepreneurial spirit and relevant technical or interpersonal skills. These individuals are eager to join dynamic startup teams and play a pivotal role in driving their success.

In summary, the pan-African OST Programme represents a unique opportunity for startups and talented professionals in Tunisia, Senegal, and Morocco to accelerate their growth, gain international recognition, and make a significant impact in the entrepreneurial landscape.

Interested candidates can apply (startups here, and individuals here) until July 21.