WeXchange Forum 2023: A Platform for Social Impact in Casablanca
The 5th edition of the WeXchange Forum, held on October 22 in Casablanca, Morocco, by the Abdelkader Bensalah Foundation, brought together public, private, associative, and academic stakeholders under the theme "Collaborate to Make an Impact." The discussions focused on financing social initiatives, supporting entrepreneurs, and coordinating efforts among various actors to achieve meaningful change.
Throughout the forum, several barriers to implementing impactful social projects were identified. Chief among these challenges were access to financing, the structuring of economic models, and the need for tailored support. Saïd Jabrani, the General Director of Tamwilcom, emphasized that while access to financing is crucial, it alone does not guarantee a project's success. It must be complemented by a viable economic model and support that enables entrepreneurs to structure and grow their businesses effectively.
Challenges and Opportunities in Cultural and Creative Industries
The issue of financing extends beyond traditional sectors to encompass cultural and creative industries. Fihr Kettani, President of the Federation of Cultural and Creative Industries, reminded attendees that this sector contributes over 2.7% to Morocco's GDP, generating more than 45 billion dirhams in revenue according to a study by the International Finance Corporation released in April. Alarmingly, only 3% of cultural enterprises reportedly have access to financing, which constitutes less than 0.5% of the total credit available to businesses, as highlighted in the data presented during the forum.
Participants also stressed the importance of coordinating the actions of different stakeholders and adapting measures to meet the beneficiaries' needs. Mohammed Rahoui, Director of Partnership Management at the National Social Support Agency (ANSS), specifically pointed out the importance of considering individual situations and territorial constraints when developing tailored support pathways.
Mouna Hachime, founder of the citizen initiative Save Casablanca, discussed the role of collective mobilization in reporting urban dysfunctions, while also acknowledging the limitations of social media engagement and the lack of responses from some officials.
Six Initiatives Honored at the Moroccan Social Innovation Awards
To conclude the forum, the Moroccan Social Innovation Awards (MSIA) 2026 recognized six outstanding initiatives. The Grand Prize MSIA 2026 was awarded to the Young Creators Association (AJCMAROC) for its project aimed at raising awareness among rural girls about reproductive health in the Guelmim-Oued Noun region. The Culture Award went to the Dar Bellarj Foundation for its "Talented Mothers Workshop" project, while the Environment Award recognized the Khnifiss Association Network for its ecotourism and climate resilience initiative around the Khnifiss National Park. The Inclusion Award was given to the New Generation Surf Association (ANZA) for its Surf Amal program, which leverages surfing-related professions to facilitate the economic integration of youth. The Education Award was conferred upon the Sanady Foundation for JODOOR+, a remediation program designed for struggling primary school students. Finally, the Jury's Heart Award was presented to the association "رواد الإبداع" for its project "Management System of My Association."
The winners will receive financial support of 200,000 dirhams, along with a post-award acceleration program and networking opportunities at both regional and national levels.
As reported by lnt.ma.
