Africalia, the Hiba Foundation, and the French Institute, in collaboration with the European Union, are excited to announce the inaugural call for applications for the Iqlaa program, an accelerator designed specifically for Moroccan cultural and creative enterprises. This initiative aims to identify around twenty cultural and creative businesses that will participate in the program's first edition.

An Accelerator to Foster Growth for Young Enterprises

Iqlaa represents a groundbreaking acceleration program tailored for Moroccan cultural and creative enterprises. Its primary goal is to enhance the capabilities of young cultural entrepreneurs, support the growth of their businesses, and facilitate their scaling processes. Planned to unfold over three editions until the end of 2029, the program will, in this initial phase, support approximately twenty enterprises in developing their operations and implementing their growth projects through targeted initiatives and financial support customized to their specific needs.

This call for applications is directed at businesses within the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) spearheaded by young entrepreneurs aged 18 to 35, based in Morocco, who are eager to accelerate their development and scale up. Eligible sectors include Animation, Video Games and Multimedia; Crafts and Creative Arts; Performing Arts; Visual Arts; Broadcasting and Distribution (TV, radio, platforms); Cinema and Audiovisual; Events and Festivals; Books and Publishing; Fashion and Design; Music and the Music Industry; Heritage, Cultural Tourism, Architecture, Gastronomy; Press and Media; Advertising and Marketing.

The Iqlaa Formula

The Iqlaa program will unfold in three successive phases: Integration, Strengthening, and Impulse, each designed to support CCI businesses at various stages of their growth journey. The first two phases will focus on solidifying the business model, while the third phase will facilitate scaling through investment readiness and export preparation.

Furthermore, the program will offer seed grants ranging from 30,000 to 50,000 dirhams and growth grants of up to 450,000 dirhams to help businesses expand and secure their foothold within the Moroccan cultural and creative ecosystem.

The program includes:

  • Targeted training sessions
  • Business coaching
  • Peer networking opportunities
  • A network within the Moroccan cultural and creative ecosystem
  • Funding to implement growth projects

How to Apply?

Applications are open until September 27, 2026 (11:59 PM local time).

An online information session will take place on Wednesday, September 9, at 12:00 PM (local time). In-person sessions will also be organized throughout the Kingdom (dates and locations to be announced).

To apply, fill out the application form in the language of your choice: Application Form.

To register for the information session: Information Session Registration.

For more information regarding this call for applications (eligibility criteria, selection process, etc.), please visit the websites of the Hiba Foundation and Africalia.

About the Iqlaa Program

Funded by the European Union (EU), this project is spearheaded by Africalia, the Hiba Foundation, and the French Institute and is part of the partnership between the European Union and the Kingdom of Morocco to support the development of cultural and creative industries (CCI) in Morocco.

Contact and Information: iqlaa@fondationhiba.ma

As reported by eeas.europa.eu.