Projet de lancement d’une cartographie nationale et d’un guide numérique sur les startups en Algérie
Algeria’s Initiative to Boost Startups Through Digital Mapping and Support
On Tuesday, in Algiers, Minister of Knowledge Economy, Start-ups and Micro-enterprises, Noureddine Ouadah, unveiled a significant initiative aimed at enhancing the startup ecosystem in Algeria. He announced the imminent launch of a national mapping project and a digital guide dedicated to the country’s startups. This initiative, articulated during his participation in the "El Moudjahid" newspaper forum, is designed to streamline the identification of startups online through keyword searches, ultimately facilitating accessibility and awareness of the activities of these enterprises across various wilayas (regions) in Algeria.
Mr. Ouadah emphasized that this mapping initiative will coincide with the roll-out of the second version of the "Startup.dz" platform set for April. Accompanying this launch will be the publication of the first annual report, which will provide insights into the startup ecosystem within the country.
The minister outlined a strategic roadmap aiming to establish 20,000 startups by the year 2029. This goal will be supported by fostering the creation of startups within universities and vocational training centers, thereby enhancing their integration into the national economy while also supporting their ventures into international markets.
Moreover, Minister Ouadah stressed the necessity of diversifying funding sources for startups. He highlighted that this would involve specialized investment funds and crowdfunding mechanisms in addition to simplifying the online business creation process. To achieve success in this ambitious plan, he advocated for fostering a conducive environment for scientific research, the recognition of intellectual property, technology transfer, and digital service provision. This also includes developing a skilled workforce and establishing effective governance mechanisms.
One of the key components of the initiative revolves around technology transfer. Mr. Ouadah mentioned that a new law is being developed in cooperation with various governmental departments. This law aims to outline the frameworks of the knowledge economy and implement application texts that introduce technology transfer clauses within purchasing contracts.
Furthermore, the minister discussed various initiatives aimed at engaging the national community abroad and vocational training centers, which include innovation contests intended to involve Algerian talents more actively in supporting the national economy. Notably, he pointed out that between 15% and 20% of Algerian startups are established by members of the diaspora, underlining the potential role they play in economic development.
This comprehensive approach highlights the government’s commitment to nurturing a thriving startup culture and illustrates the potential of digital tools in connecting entrepreneurs with resources, mentorship, and financial support. The national mapping and digital guides will serve as critical instruments in illuminating the landscape of Algerian startups, making them more visible to investors and customers alike.
In conclusion, Algeria is poised to significantly enhance its startup ecosystem through modern digital initiatives and a supportive policy environment. The coordinated efforts of the Ministry aim not only to register a substantial increase in the number of startups but also to cultivate a robust infrastructure that will facilitate entrepreneurship and innovation in the country for years to come.
Summary
Alger’s Minister of Knowledge Economy, Noureddine Ouadah, has introduced a national startup mapping initiative and a digital guide aimed at boosting the startup ecosystem. This project will enhance online searchability for startups by regions and is set to launch alongside the upgraded "Startup.dz" platform in April, which will also feature the first annual report on the startup ecosystem.
The minister has laid out a goal of creating 20,000 startups by 2029, emphasizing support within universities and vocational training centers to integrate these ventures into the national economy and aid in international market access. He also highlighted the need for diversified funding through specialized investment funds, crowdfunding, and simplified online enterprise creation.
Success depends on fostering a research-friendly environment, valuing intellectual property, transferring technology, and ensuring a skilled workforce with sound governance. A new law governing the technology transfer process is also in development. Additionally, initiatives aimed at engaging Algerians abroad and vocational centers, including innovation contests, hope to involve the diaspora, which currently contributes to 15-20% of the startup landscape.
This comprehensive strategy focuses on leveraging digital tools and supportive policies to elevate the startup ecosystem, thereby enhancing economic growth and opportunity in Algeria.
