Tunisia’s startup ecosystem is set for a major boost with the launch of the 216 Capital Venture Accelerator, a groundbreaking initiative by Tunisian venture capital firm 216 Capital in partnership with Silicon Valley’s Plug and Play. This six-month program is designed to fast-track 20 promising Tunisian startups, equipping them with the funding, mentorship, and global exposure needed to scale regionally and internationally. Each startup will receive €50,000 in seed funding, alongside access to Plug and Play’s extensive global network of corporations, investors, and mentors.
Backed by Smart Capital and the ANAVA fund of funds, the accelerator aligns with Tunisia’s national innovation goals, building on the foundation set by the 2018 Startup Act. High-performing startups will also have the opportunity to secure follow-on funding, ensuring long-term growth and sustainability. This move demonstrates a strong commitment to addressing challenges such as fragmented markets and limited access to global capital that have historically slowed Tunisian entrepreneurs from expanding beyond national borders.
Dhekra Khelifi, Partner at 216 Capital, described the collaboration as a milestone moment for Tunisia, emphasizing the importance of equipping local entrepreneurs with the right tools to attract capital and scale globally. Echoing this, Yves Cabanac, Managing Director for France, Benelux, and Africa at Plug and Play, highlighted Tunisia’s growing potential to produce globally relevant startups, stressing that the accelerator is designed to identify high-potential ventures and align them with international standards.
The initiative’s broader objectives are ambitious yet strategic. By combining the strengths of 216 Capital and Plug and Play, the program aims to attract greater investment into Tunisia’s early-stage tech ecosystem, position the country as a key innovation hub bridging Africa, the Middle East, and Europe, and spark new success stories that resonate on the global stage. The integration of mentorship, capital, and market access places Tunisia in a stronger position to nurture startups capable of competing beyond regional borders.
With this accelerator, Tunisia is not only providing capital but also creating frameworks that support international growth and recognition. For entrepreneurs, the program offers a rare opportunity to access world-class mentorship, adopt global standards, and build resilient business structures that can thrive in competitive markets. The launch of the 216 Capital Venture Accelerator marks a pivotal step toward shaping Tunisia’s future as a dynamic hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
