Tunisia’s startup ecosystem has taken a significant step forward with the launch of the 216 Capital Venture Accelerator, a new program designed to empower early-stage Tunisian startups with funding, mentorship, and global networking opportunities.

Launched by 216 Capital, a leading Tunisian venture capital firm, in partnership with Plug and Play, Silicon Valley’s world-renowned innovation platform, this initiative is dedicated to equipping Tunisian founders with the tools to scale regionally and globally.

Backed by Smart Capital and the ANAVA fund of funds, the accelerator also aligns with Tunisia’s national strategy to strengthen and finance its startup ecosystem while positioning the country as a hub for innovation across Africa and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region.

Program Overview

The 216 Capital Venture Accelerator is a six-month program created exclusively for Tunisian startups. The initiative is designed to help founders build structured businesses, prepare for investment rounds, and expand into regional and global markets.

In its inaugural cohort, the program will support up to 20 startups selected for their growth potential and commitment to scaling internationally.

Each selected startup will receive:

• €50,000 in initial funding (approximately $58,000), with the possibility of larger follow-on investments for the most promising projects.

• Customized mentoring from international coaches, investors, and venture capitalists.

• Integration into Plug and Play’s global network, granting access to a community of investors, mentors, and corporate partners worldwide.

Strategic Importance for Tunisia

According to Dhekra Khelifi, Partner at 216 Capital, this program represents an important milestone for Tunisia’s ecosystem:

“By joining forces with Plug and Play, we are giving local founders the tools to structure their businesses, raise capital, and access international markets.”

Yves Cabanac, Managing Director for France, Benelux, and Africa at Plug and Play, emphasized the broader vision behind this initiative:

“Tunisia has already proven its ability to produce globally relevant innovations, with some of Africa’s most remarkable success stories. With this program, we aim to accelerate that momentum by identifying high-potential startups, aligning them with global standards, and channeling new investment flows into the country. Our ambition is to position Tunisia as a transregional innovation hub, bridging local talent with global opportunities.”

Program Goals

Beyond funding and mentoring, the 216 Capital Venture Accelerator has been designed with long-term ecosystem impact in mind. The program aims to:

• Mobilize greater investment in Tunisian startups through 216 Capital and Plug and Play Africa Ventures.

• Position Tunisia as a key innovation hub in Africa and the broader MENA region.

• Support founders in becoming investment-ready, enabling them to raise capital more effectively.

• Inspire a new generation of startup success stories with visibility on the regional and global stage.

• Strengthen Tunisia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by channeling international expertise, networks, and investment flows into the country.

Who Should Apply

The accelerator is designed for early-stage Tunisian startups with high growth potential. Ideal candidates include:

• Founders seeking to expand regionally and globally.

• Teams committed to raising investment and structuring their business for long-term growth.

• Startups with innovative ideas that can compete on a transregional scale.

This focus ensures that the selected startups are not only prepared for local success but also ready to integrate into global markets.

Why It Matters

The launch of the 216 Capital Venture Accelerator marks a turning point for Tunisia’s innovation ecosystem. For years, Tunisian startups have demonstrated talent and innovation but often lacked sufficient access to structured investment opportunities and international networks.

With the involvement of Plug and Play, one of the most respected innovation platforms worldwide, Tunisian founders now have an unprecedented chance to connect with global investors, corporate partners, and mentors who can help them reach the next stage of growth.

Furthermore, the accelerator strengthens Tunisia’s position as a bridge between Africa, the MENA region, and global markets. By channeling expertise and capital into local ventures, the program is setting the stage for Tunisia to become a regional hub for entrepreneurship and innovation.

Application Details

While the official program website has published press releases and announcements, the direct application link and deadline have not yet been publicly provided online. Applicants and interested stakeholders are encouraged to stay updated through 216 Capital’s official channels and Plug and Play’s communications platforms.

Conclusion

The 216 Capital Venture Accelerator, launched in partnership with Plug and Play, represents a major leap forward for Tunisia’s startup ecosystem. By providing €50,000 in initial funding, tailored mentoring from international experts, and access to Plug and Play’s global network, the program is designed to empower Tunisian startups to scale beyond local markets.

Backed by Smart Capital and the ANAVA fund of funds, the initiative aligns with Tunisia’s national strategy for entrepreneurship and innovation. It is not just about individual startups—it is about creating a robust, sustainable ecosystem that positions Tunisia as a regional hub for innovation across Africa and the MENA region.

For Tunisian founders with global ambitions, the 216 Capital Venture Accelerator offers a rare and transformative opportunity to secure investment, gain international exposure, and build sustainable businesses capable of competing on the world stage.

For more Information and Applications:

Visit HERE

Stay on opportunitiesforwomen.org/ for more opportunities.