impact
BEYOND BORDERS 2024
Empowering Moroccan Innovators for a Sustainable Future
Join us in fostering a vibrant innovation and entrepreneurship ecosystem in Morocco – where ideas reach far and wide!
About the program
In July 2024, Sisal and BeEntrepreneurs will launch Impact Beyond Borders, a joint program dedicated to early-stage startups in Morocco.
This initiative aims at supporting and nurturing Moroccan entrepreneurs, innovators and young talents who aspire to develop products or services with significant potential impact on local business and society.
The selected startups will be invited to an intensive week of training, learning, and co-planning in Casablanca with BeEntrepreneurs and SISAL teams. Finally, the startups will pitch on a demo-day and the most outstanding startup will have access to financial support through an equity-free grant, while another award will be the opportunity to travel to Italy as part of Sisal’s acceleration program.
The program will ultimately enable entrepreneurs to enhance their vision, create positive societal change, and contribute to building a sustainable future. Together, we can nurture and empower the next generation of Moroccan innovators and make a lasting impact on both
local and global levels.
The topics
Morocco represents one of the most promising startup ecosystems in North Africa. In recent years, the Country has been focused on driving economic growth through digital transformation with a vision to create positive societal impact.
This initiative aims at finding business ideas and startups that follow in the footsteps of this approach, addressing challenges in the following areas (but not only):
Education
Startups offering tools and platforms to enhance the quality of education, promote digital literacy, and provide access to educational resources for all age groups to improve learning
outcomes and bridge educational gaps in Morocco.
Sport, health & wellbeing
Ventures focused on improving physical and mental health through sports, wellness programs, and healthcare innovations. This includes fitness apps, telemedicine, health monitoring devices, and programs that encourage active lifestyles and mental health awareness.
Technology for good
Startups leveraging technology to address social issues, improve quality of life, and empower communities. This includes innovations in areas like smart cities, accessibility,
digital inclusion, and community development projects that use tech to create positive social change.
Fintech & digital payments
Companies developing solutions for digital banking, mobile payments, and financial services that cater to underserved populations. These startups’ goal is to enhance financial
literacy, provide access to financial services, and facilitate seamless transactions to boost economic growth.
Climate and environment
Startups focused on combating climate change and promoting environmental sustainability. This includes renewable energy technologies, waste management systems, sustainable agriculture practices, and innovations that reduce carbon footprints and protect natural resources.
What’s in for you
The startups selected for the “bootcamp” week will have the chance to learn best practices and get personalized guidance on their growth strategy while developing long-term, valuable connections with key ecosystem stakeholders, leveraging Sisal and BeEntrepreneurs experience and connections with the Italian and European innovation ecosystem. Moreover, you and your startup will benefit from a dynamic environment that encourages continuous learning and professional development.
Personalized Mentoring and Business Development
Startups will receive personalized mentoring to tackle concrete business challenges and improve their early
business features. With tailored mentorship and tutoring, participants will work with international experts to enhance the potential of their projects and they will have opportunities to refine their storytelling skills and build compelling pitches.
Networking and Partnerships
Participants will expand their network of partners and investors, facilitating connections with other startups and key stakeholders. They will have the opportunity to collaborate and co-design new ideas with influential members of the local community, as well as network with mentors, potential investors, partners, and other
interesting figures.
Community and Support
All participating startups will join our community of professionals and individuals who share similar passions and ambitions. This supportive network will provide ongoing resources, collaboration opportunities, and a platform for sharing experiences and knowledge, ensuring that startups continue to grow and thrive long
after the program ends.
In addition, the best 3 startups – evaluated by a jury composed of members of SISAL and the Moroccan innovation ecosystem during a final event – will have the opportunity to connect with the Italian ecosystem, developed by Sisal over the years with GoBeyond program, through an immersive trip to Italy with dedicated meetings and events. The best startup will also receive a grant worth 10,000 euros (to be converted in MAD).
Invest in your startup future today and seize the opportunity to accelerate growth, innovate boldly, and forge lasting success in the vibrant entrepreneurial landscape.
Phases
Scouting
Closing of the call for startups on 24th of September 2024
Selection of up to 10 of the best startups from Moroccan ecosystem to bring to the final sprint
Selection
September – October 2024
The selection committee evaluates all the applications with also 1-1 in-depth meetings
Onboarding
in Casablanca, Morocco
Bootcamp
October 28-31, 2024
An intense journey of learning by doing and fruitful meetings with the local innovation ecosystem
ITALY ROADSHOW
December 2024 – June 2025 (dates TBC)
Trip to Milan, Italy for the 3 startups awarded at the end of the bootcamp
ARE YOU READY to
MAKE THE DIFFERENCE?
The call is OPEN.
DON’T MISS THIS OPPORTUNITY!
Small or micro enterprises operating in Morocco or individual applicants or teams of people consisting of members over 18 years of age
Startups should promote social and sustainable innovation within their enterprise
Younger teams, with an average age of 30 years or less, and with diverse founders and members will be given higher consideration in the selection process
1. Screening phase
Tell us about your team and project/ startup with detailed info about your project, revenues and customers.
WHAT YOU NEED:
- Pitch Deck (mandatory)
- Business Plan (optional)
2. One to One phase
Let’s get to know each other better. This is your chance to show to us your potential.
WHAT YOU NEED:
- Pitch Deck
- Business Plan (optional)
- Prototype (optional)
- Visual explanations (optional)
3. Announcement Day
We will get in touch with the team that has made it to the bootcamp in Casablanca!
WHAT YOU NEED:
- So much excitement!
4. Onboarding
Time to e-meet your future partners, mentors and other startups. It’s a great time to show your soft skills.
WHAT YOU NEED:
- Pitch Deck
- A lot of…energy!