Flat6Labs and the International Finance Corporation (IFC), in collaboration with the Algerian Ministry of Knowledge Economy, Startups, and Micro-enterprises, have announced the launch of StartAlgeria, a capacity-building program aimed at supporting the Algerian entrepreneurial ecosystem. According to the press release published on Tuesday, June 23, the program primarily targets Entrepreneur Support Organizations (ESOs), including incubators and support structures for young companies.
Unlike programs focused solely on financing or accelerating startups, StartAlgeria aims to enhance the capabilities of organizations that support them, especially those assisting projects in the pre-seed and seed stages. The program is designed to provide them with working methods, international benchmarks, and connections with investors, public decision-makers, and other ecosystem players. The stated goal is to contribute to a more structured and competitive entrepreneurial environment in Algeria, with an openness to international markets.
The launch of a first pilot cohort is planned in Algiers. After a call for applications, selected structures will participate in a program consisting of workshops and masterclasses focused on startup selection, development and implementation of support programs, and preparation for investment. Participants will also benefit from six months of post-program mentoring, with a focus on fundraising strategy, partnership development, financial sustainability, and program improvement.
Unified voices around a common challenge
According to Yehia Houry, CEO of Flat6Labs, Algeria has a fertile ground: a new generation of ambitious founders, increasing institutional support, and a strong national momentum towards innovation. However, he believes it is time to take a further step by strengthening the structures that support these talents.
Cemile Hacibeyoglu Ceren, the World Bank Group’s Resident Representative in Algeria, emphasized IFC’s role in providing these structures with the necessary resources and expertise to support entrepreneurs from the emergence of their idea to their first fundraising round.
Minister Noureddine Ouadah praised the initiative as an investment in the international competitiveness and long-term resilience of Algerian startups.
Operating in 15 countries in the Middle East and Africa, Flat6Labs is considered a key player in entrepreneurial support in emerging markets, alongside startups, large companies, and governments.
