In a significant move to bolster the startup ecosystem, Lamiae Benmakhlouf, the General Director of Technopark Morocco, and William Simoncelli, President of French Tech Casablanca, announced a partnership during GITEX Africa 2026. This collaboration, which includes the presence of key officials such as Amal El Fallah Seghrouchni, the Moroccan Minister Delegate in Charge of Digital Transition and Administration Reform, and Anne Le Hénanff, the French Minister for Artificial Intelligence and Digital Affairs, aims to enhance the market access and expertise of startups from both countries.
The initiative is designed to support the growth and internationalization of young enterprises by creating networking opportunities between critical players from the French and Moroccan ecosystems, as well as facilitating their involvement in major initiatives championed by both communities. Under this agreement, Technopark Morocco commits to supporting the roadmap of French Tech Morocco, particularly focusing on regionalization while ensuring effective coordination to address the needs of startups. This includes mobilizing participants, experts, and partners, as well as providing necessary spaces for event organization.
In a statement to MAP, Lamiae Benmakhlouf emphasized that 'this partnership formalizes a long-standing collaboration between the two parties, which will now be strengthened for greater impact.' She highlighted Morocco's wealth of talent, noting that many innovative startups are producing solutions in fields such as artificial intelligence and cybersecurity. This agreement will facilitate the sharing of essential expertise and experiences that will further propel these startups into international markets.
Benmakhlouf stated, 'We will be able to open the doors of Morocco and Africa to French startups wishing to establish themselves in our territories, while also encouraging Moroccan startups to explore international markets, particularly in France and Europe.'
William Simoncelli echoed similar sentiments, indicating that this agreement culminates over six years of close collaboration between Technopark Morocco and French Tech Morocco. 'We are pleased to sign this cooperation agreement with the major player that is Technopark Morocco,' he added.
Founded in 2001 in Casablanca, Technopark serves as a technological business incubator, aimed at supporting the development of startups primarily in information technology, consulting, services, and communication. It achieves this through tailored programs that address the needs of young businesses, aided by experts and mentors within a supportive ecosystem.
French Tech Morocco, part of the global French Tech network, unites startup founders, investors, collaborators, and other stakeholders to create favorable conditions for invigorating the startup ecosystem in Morocco and connecting it with
As reported by laquotidienne.ma.
