by The Orange Corners Innovation Fund (OCIF), a Dutch-supported initiative, is rapidly expanding its impact across North Africa and the Middle East. This fund targets early-stage startups, aiming to bridge the critical seed-stage funding gap faced by young entrepreneurs.
After successful launches in Algeria and Egypt last year, Orange Corners recently expanded to Tunisia. This addition marks the 20th country in the Orange Corners network, signaling a significant boost to innovation ecosystems in the region.
New Launch in Tunisia and Local Partnerships
The latest programme launch in Tunisia is a pivotal step. Orange Corners partnered with Lab’ess, a leading local incubator that understands the country’s unique startup landscape. Lab’ess has already selected its first cohort of 10 startups, composed of promising entrepreneurs across diverse sectors. These startups will receive not only funding but also mentorship and training to fast-track their growth.
This collaboration with Lab’ess showcases how Orange Corners leverages strong local partnerships. By working directly with incubators and accelerators on the ground, the programme tailors its support to meet regional needs effectively. This strategy helps create a nurturing environment for innovation.
Closing the Seed-Stage Funding Gap
Since its launch in 2019, the Orange Corners Innovation Fund has focused on what experts call the “missing middle” in startup financing. This refers to the critical early seed stage where many startups struggle to secure funding. These startups have often graduated from incubation or acceleration programmes but need capital to scale their innovations.
OCIF fills this gap by providing capital to help startups enter new markets, fine-tune their products, and expand their teams. The fund offers grants and equity investments, giving entrepreneurs the financial resources to translate their ideas into viable businesses.
By focusing on this seed-stage gap, OCIF strengthens the entire startup ecosystem. Entrepreneurs gain the confidence and means to grow. This, in turn, encourages more innovation and job creation in emerging tech hubs across Africa and the Middle East.
Related:
Expanding Footprint Across North Africa
Before its recent launch in Tunisia, OCIF had established programs in Algeria and Egypt. Both countries represent fast-growing markets with an increasing number of ambitious startups. Orange Corners recognized the urgent need for seed capital in these ecosystems.
In Algeria, OCIF partnered with local incubators to select startups working on fintech, agritech, and clean energy solutions. The fund has already disbursed several grants, enabling startups to develop prototypes and attract follow-on investments.
Egypt’s tech scene is one of the most vibrant in the region. Orange Corners tailored its programme here to support women-led startups and youth entrepreneurs. This inclusive focus helps tap into a wider pool of talent and fosters diversity, which research shows accelerates innovation.
The cumulative impact of these expansions is substantial. More young companies gain access to mentorship, networks, and capital. Governments and investors begin to recognize the region as a fertile ground for technological progress.
Impact on Innovation in Africa and the Middle East
The Orange Corners Innovation Fund contributes to an innovation renaissance sweeping across the region. Startups in these markets are addressing local challenges with global potential. For example, entrepreneurs focus on digital payments, healthtech, sustainable agriculture, and education.
OCIF’s support boosts startups not only financially but also by connecting them to international investors and corporate partners. This ecosystem-building helps take local ideas from concept to market-ready solutions.
By combining seed capital with mentorship and local partnerships, OCIF creates fertile ground for startups to thrive. This fuels entrepreneurship, economic growth, and social progress in a rapidly evolving region.
As the startup ecosystems mature, Orange Corners’ continued support will be crucial in transforming ideas into scalable businesses that drive Africa’s and the Middle East’s innovation future.
