Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is launching “The Forge”, an ambitious program intended to support entrepreneurs in the creation of startups with global impact. Hosted on the StartGate campus in Benguérir and supported by UM6P Ventures and the Ibn Rochd Foundation for Science and Innovation (FIRSI), this program aims to be a springboard for transforming innovative ideas into successful businesses, ready to conquer international markets .
Morocco is taking a new step in promoting innovation and entrepreneurship with the launch of “The Forge”, an innovative program led by the Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P). Located at the heart of StartGate, the campus dedicated to innovation and entrepreneurship, this ambitious project aims to support founders in their entrepreneurial journey, from ideation to international expansion. By relying on a structured ecosystem and world-class infrastructure, “The Forge” aspires to make Morocco a true innovation hub in Africa and to reveal future Moroccan and African unicorns.
An integrated ecosystem serving entrepreneurs
Much more than a simple program, “The Forge” offers a structured and integrated environment. The selected entrepreneurs will benefit from tailor-made support, combining high-level mentoring, advanced technological infrastructures and access to international networks. This conducive framework not only promotes entrepreneurial success, but also the personal development of participants, by focusing on their resilience and leadership abilities.
The ultimate goal? Providing startups with all the resources necessary to generate lasting impact and lay the foundations for future Moroccan and African unicorns.
A journey in four key stages
To support entrepreneurs in their adventure, “The Forge” offers an immersive residency lasting 9 to 12 months, structured around four phases:
1. Ideation: transform concepts into viable projects thanks to clear structuring.
2. Incubation: develop prototypes in the UM6P laboratories.
3. Acceleration: connecting startups to financing and strategic opportunities.
4. Scaling: support the regional and international expansion of the most promising projects.
This methodical process provides a comprehensive trajectory for founders, allowing them to bring their ideas to life while accessing global markets.
Priority to Moroccan and African talents
Although “The Forge” is open to entrepreneurs from around the world, the program places particular emphasis on Moroccan – particularly those from the diaspora – and African talents. This approach aims to promote local skills while strengthening Morocco’s role as an innovation hub in Africa.
By bringing together diverse profiles, the program aims to build a dynamic community of founders capable of meeting economic and social challenges on a regional and international scale.
Affirmed ambitions
The Director of Entrepreneurship and Venturing and CEO of UM6P Ventures, Yassine Laghzioui, emphasizes about this program: “we firmly believe that Moroccan and African entrepreneurs have the potential to establish themselves on the international scene. “The Forge” embodies this mission by offering a founder-focused program. Much more than a traditional program, it is a gateway to world-class resources, while promoting their local and global impact”.
The Secretary General of FIRSI, Tarik El Fehri, indicates for his part that “this program illustrates our commitment to making innovation and entrepreneurship levers for inclusive development. Through “The Forge”, we provide a framework where ambitious ideas can be transformed into concrete successes.”
Note that applications for the first cohort of “The Forge” are open from December 18, 2024 to February 7, 2025 on the official website www.theforge.ma.
