Tunisian venture capital firm 216 Capital has joined forces with Plug and Play, the Silicon Valley-based global innovation platform, to launch the 216 Capital Venture Accelerator. The six-month program is designed to nurture up to 20 Tunisian startups, helping them strengthen their business models, attract investment, and scale across regional and global markets. This initiative represents a strategic push to elevate Tunisia as a prominent hub for innovation within Africa and the Middle East.
Program Structure and Support
The accelerator will provide each selected startup with €50,000, equivalent to around $58,000, in initial funding to jump-start their growth. Startups demonstrating exceptional performance will also become eligible for larger follow-on investments, creating a pathway for sustained financing beyond the program. Alongside capital, participants will benefit from customized mentoring by international coaches, venture capitalists, and investors, ensuring founders receive the guidance necessary to compete globally.
Access to a Global Network
Through the partnership with Plug and Play, startups will gain entry into an expansive network of investors, mentors, and corporate partners spanning multiple regions. This global integration is expected to open doors for Tunisian startups seeking market entry and collaboration opportunities outside of their home country. By leveraging Plug and Play’s established platform, entrepreneurs will have the resources to move beyond local challenges and connect with international ecosystems.
Strategic Vision for Tunisia
The program is aligned with Tunisia’s broader national strategy to develop a sustainable and competitive startup ecosystem. Backed by Smart Capital and the ANAVA fund of funds, the initiative is part of a long-term effort to mobilize investment and strengthen entrepreneurial infrastructure. The aim is to transform Tunisia into a transregional innovation hub, bridging African talent with global markets and investors.
Voices from the Partners
According to Dhekra Khelifi, Partner at 216 Capital, the accelerator marks a significant milestone in Tunisia’s entrepreneurial journey. She emphasized that the program will equip founders with the structure and tools to attract investment and expand internationally. Khelifi highlighted that this partnership reflects a shared commitment to amplifying Tunisia’s position in the global innovation landscape.
Yves Cabanac, Managing Director for France, Benelux, and Africa at Plug and Play, also underscored Tunisia’s strong potential. He pointed out that the country has already produced notable technology success stories recognized across Africa. With this initiative, Cabanac noted, Plug and Play aims to accelerate momentum by identifying high-potential startups, aligning them with global best practices, and driving new investment flows into Tunisia.
Driving Economic Impact
Beyond funding and mentorship, the program seeks to inspire a new generation of Tunisian entrepreneurs who can build ventures with global visibility. It aims to catalyze success stories that will encourage further investment, creating a multiplier effect across the ecosystem. By doing so, the initiative hopes to demonstrate that Tunisian startups can not only thrive locally but also compete in international markets.
Broader Regional Relevance
Tunisia’s role as an emerging hub for startups in North Africa positions it strategically for regional impact. With this accelerator, the country could become a model for other ecosystems in Africa and MENA looking to bridge local talent with global capital and expertise. If successful, the program may pave the way for more cross-border partnerships that accelerate innovation beyond national borders.
The 216 Capital Venture Accelerator signals a pivotal step in advancing Tunisia’s startup ecosystem through international collaboration. By combining financial support, tailored mentorship, and access to Plug and Play’s global network, the program is set to empower local startups with the tools needed for long-term success. As Tunisia strengthens its position as a regional innovation hub, the initiative could become a catalyst for both economic growth and global recognition of the country’s entrepreneurial potential.