Maelezo

Overview

Ecosystem Builders Algeria has opened applications for two support tracks targeting entrepreneurs and startups in Algeria’s agritech and agribusiness sectors.

The programme provides equity-free financial support, structured training, expert coaching, market access, and internationalisation opportunities. Participants retain 100% ownership of their companies.

The initiative is implemented by enpact under a grant agreement with GIZ, within the InnovAgro component of the Green and Digital Economic Development in Algeria (DGA) project. The programme is implemented in partnership with Algeria’s Ministry of the Knowledge Economy, Start-ups and Micro-Enterprises (MECSME) and is co-financed by the German Federal Ministry for Economic Cooperation and Development (BMZ) and the European Union.

Two Application Tracks

Applicants can apply to one of two tracks depending on the maturity of their project:

1. Ideas Track
Designed for aspiring entrepreneurs with an innovative idea, concept, or early-stage project in agriculture, agrifood, or agritech.

2. Startups Track
Designed for high-potential startups and innovative projects holding a valid Innovative Project, Startup, or Scale-up label issued by MECSME.

Financial Support

Selected participants receive milestone-based, equity-free financial support linked to an individual growth roadmap.

• Ideas Track: up to EUR 3,750
• Startups Track: up to EUR 10,800

For the Ideas Track, funding can support prototype development, idea testing, and proof-of-concept activities.

For the Startups Track, funding is intended to support activities such as MVP development, market validation, and investment readiness.

Programme Support

Participants will receive tailored training, coaching, and technical assistance covering areas such as business model development, financial planning, operations, market access, partnerships, and investor readiness.

Selected participants will also join the Algerian Entrepreneurs Alumni Network, providing opportunities for continued peer learning, collaboration, and ecosystem engagement beyond the programme.

Internationalisation and Market Access

The programme also includes a separate internationalisation component for selected participants.

Activities may include:

• A preparatory bootcamp focused on pitching and international market objectives.
• International trade fairs and learning tours in Africa and Europe.
• Site visits, B2B meetings, networking, and engagement with investors, customers, and strategic partners.
• Tailored coaching to strengthen internationalisation and growth strategies.

Participation in this component is subject to a separate selection process. Up to 35 participants will be selected, including up to 25 from the Startups Track and 10 from the Ideas Track.

Ideas Track Eligibility

Applicants should:

• Be eligible nationals or residents of Algeria.
• Present an idea, concept, or early-stage prototype in agriculture, agrifood, or agritech.
• Provide proof of a functional Proof of Concept (PoC).
• Demonstrate motivation to develop the idea through the incubation process.
• Commit to workshops, coaching, milestone reporting, and programme obligations.
• Not have previously received grant funding.

Applicants with an Innovative Project label must also commit to applying for the Startup label and completing company registration during the programme.

Startups Track Eligibility

Eligible startups or innovative projects must:

• Hold a valid Innovative Project, Startup, or Scale-up label issued by MECSME.
• Have a validated Minimum Viable Product (MVP).
• Operate in agriculture, agrifood, agritech, or related value chains.
• Demonstrate initial traction through activities such as prototypes, sales, pilots, or partnerships.
• Have a programme representative who is an eligible national or resident of Algeria.
• Commit to active participation and regular progress reporting.
• Not have previously received grant funding.

Projects holding only the Innovative Project label must commit to applying for the Startup label and completing company registration during the programme.

Application Process

Applications follow a two-round process.

In Round 1, applicants complete a short online application with basic information about their idea or startup. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis.

Eligible applicants are then invited to Round 2 and have 72 hours to provide additional information and supporting documents.

For the Ideas Track, these include proof of identity, a Proof of Concept, pitch deck or relevant analysis framework, and a 1–2 minute introductory video.

For the Startups Track, applicants must provide proof of identity, a valid labelling certificate, an existing business or growth roadmap where applicable, a 1–2 minute introductory video, and any additional documents requested during the selection process.

Applicants may also be invited to a short clarification call.

Key Dates

• Applications open: 3 August 2026
• Application deadline: 10 September 2026
• Round 2 invitations: Until 17 September 2026
• Evaluation and onboarding: September–October 2026
• Applicant results: First week of October 2026
• Roadmap development: October 2026
• Roadmap validation: November 2026
• Workshops and coaching: October 2026–March 2027
• Financial support and milestone reporting: October 2026–March 2027
• International trade fairs and learning tours: 2027, dates to be confirmed
• Algerian Entrepreneurs Alumni Network launch: June 2027

How to Apply

Applicants should select the track that best matches the maturity of their project and submit the relevant online application before 10 September 2026.

Candidates are encouraged to review the detailed eligibility and selection criteria before applying and ensure that they can meet all participation and reporting requirements throughout the programme.