The Orange Corners Innovation Fund (OCIF) has officially launched in Tunisia, marking the 20th country in its growing network. The Dutch-backed initiative, designed to bridge the seed-stage financing gap for early-stage entrepreneurs, has already established itself across Africa and the Middle East. With Tunisia now onboard, the program aims to provide local founders with critical funding, training, and business development support.
A Milestone for Tunisian Entrepreneurs
The launch was celebrated with the first cohort of ten Tunisian startups pitching their businesses to an audience of investors, mentors, and international representatives. The event highlighted the confidence and professionalism of the entrepreneurs, reflecting the strong preparation provided by OCIF’s local partner Lab’ess. The partnership is set to run for five years, creating long-term opportunities for growth in the Tunisian innovation ecosystem.
International Support and Partnerships
The celebration received high-level recognition, including participation from H.E. Josephine Frantzen, the Dutch Ambassador to Tunisia, who hosted the delegation to mark the occasion. This underlines the broader government-to-government collaboration underpinning the initiative’s expansion. By combining international backing with local incubation expertise, OCIF positions itself as a powerful platform to unlock entrepreneurial talent.
OCIF’s Regional Expansion
Tunisia joins Algeria and Egypt as part of OCIF’s recent North African rollout, strengthening its footprint across key regional ecosystems. In Algeria, OCIF partnered with the Algerian Startup Fund (ASF), a public-private initiative supporting early-stage ventures since 2020. In Egypt, OCIF works alongside Falak Startups and Athar, leveraging state-backed institutions and accelerator networks to reach promising entrepreneurs.
Addressing the Seed-Stage Gap
OCIF was first launched in 2019 with the mission to support entrepreneurs who often fall into the “missing middle” of startup financing. Many promising businesses in Africa and the Middle East struggle to secure capital at the idea or seed stage, leaving innovation underfunded. OCIF directly addresses this gap by providing both financial and technical assistance to enable startups to scale sustainably.
Funding and Support Structure
The fund operates through a flexible two-track model, offering prototype vouchers, monthly stipends, and more substantial seed financing of up to €50,000. These funds can be structured as grants or loans, tailored to the needs and risks of the startups involved. Beyond capital, OCIF provides training, mentorship, and access to networks that strengthen entrepreneurs’ ability to build competitive businesses.
Localised Investment Model
By partnering with established incubators and fund managers, OCIF ensures its approach is rooted in local realities while benefiting from international expertise. In Tunisia, Lab’ess plays a central role in identifying high-potential entrepreneurs and preparing them for investment readiness. This model reduces risks, builds capacity, and creates pathways for long-term impact in local economies.
Long-Term Vision and Goals
The initiative’s ambitions extend well beyond short-term interventions. OCIF plans to operate in at least 21 countries and continue its activities until 2030, creating lasting impact across Africa and the Middle East. Its focus on job creation, innovation, and sustainable growth aligns with broader economic development priorities in the region.
The launch of OCIF in Tunisia represents more than just the arrival of a new funding source—it is a significant step toward strengthening the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. With the backing of international partners and the expertise of Lab’ess, the program is set to provide young Tunisian innovators with the resources and confidence to scale their ideas. As OCIF continues its regional expansion, it cements its role as a catalyst for startup growth and a driver of economic transformation across Africa and beyond.