Tunisia’s startup ecosystem has taken a significant leap forward with the launch of the 216 Capital Venture Accelerator, a six-month program designed exclusively for Tunisian startups. Developed by leading venture capital firm 216 Capital in collaboration with Silicon Valley-based innovation platform Plug and Play, the initiative aims to prepare up to 20 startups for investment and global expansion.
Each participating startup will receive €50,000 in initial funding, with the potential for follow-on investments, alongside tailored mentorship from international coaches, investors, and venture capitalists. They will also gain access to Plug and Play’s global network of investors, mentors, and corporate partners.
The accelerator reflects a shared vision to elevate Tunisia’s innovation landscape, equipping founders with the tools to scale their businesses and connect with international markets.
According to 216 Capital Partner Dhekra Khelifi, the program marks a pivotal milestone for the local ecosystem, while Plug and Play’s Yves Cabanac emphasized Tunisia’s proven capacity for global innovation and the program’s role in accelerating that momentum.
Strategically, the initiative seeks to mobilize greater investment, position Tunisia as a regional innovation hub, and inspire globally visible success stories. Supported by Smart Capital and the ANAVA fund of funds, the accelerator aligns with Tunisia’s national strategy to build a competitive, sustainable startup ecosystem with transregional impact.
