The official launch of the “Challenge Fund II” program took place on Monday, February 3, 2025, at a high-profile ceremony in Rabat. This cutting-edge initiative, the product of collaboration between Morocco and Germany, symbolizes a strategic partnership focused on employment and sustainable development. Key figures attending the event included Morocco’s Minister of Industry and Trade, Ryad Mezzour, Germany’s Ambassador Robert Dölger, and Kathrin Lorenz, Country Director of GIZ Morocco.
Part of the Employment Partnership (PPE II), “Challenge Fund II” is designed to support Moroccan businesses spearheading high-impact investment projects. The initiative is driven by a €1.05 million budget, jointly managed by Morocco’s Ministry of Industry and Trade and the German Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ).
The program aims to stimulate job creation by funding projects that promote social inclusion, digital innovation, and green transitions. Its mission? To identify and nurture transformative initiatives capable of making a lasting impact across their industries.
During the ceremony, multiple tripartite agreements were signed between the Ministry of Industry, GIZ Morocco, and selected companies chosen through a competitive call for proposals launched in May 2024. These businesses, representing a wide range of sectors, will receive financial support of up to 1.5 million dirhams—covering up to 70% of their project costs. They’ll also benefit from hands-on operational assistance to ensure success.
The companies awarded funding include:
- Peaqock Financials – A Moroccan fintech specializing in innovative technology solutions.
- Station A Corporation – An incubator supporting entrepreneurship and startup development.
- DELI’S – A key player in the bakery and pastry sector.
- LARICONF – A company focused on women’s ready-to-wear fashion.
- LEYTON – An international consulting firm specializing in organizational development.
- Bertrandt Technologies – A renowned German engineering group.
One of the highlights of the event was the signing of an agreement with Handicap International, a global humanitarian organization. This partnership aims to assist companies in implementing inclusive policies, particularly by fostering the employment of people with disabilities. This initiative underscores the program’s dedication to creating a more equitable and socially responsible economy.
Both Moroccan and German representatives praised the “Challenge Fund II” for its potential to drive sustainable progress. Minister Ryad Mezzour described the program as a catalyst for both innovation and inclusion, noting that it will generate long-term employment opportunities while advancing sustainable business practices.
German Ambassador Robert Dölger echoed these sentiments, emphasizing his country’s commitment to supporting Moroccan entrepreneurship:
“Germany is proud to contribute to this initiative that promotes both economic and social development in Morocco,” he stated.
The launch of “Challenge Fund II” represents a renewed effort to strengthen Morocco’s capacity to tackle contemporary economic challenges. Through this ambitious collaboration, the program aims to bolster innovation, enhance social inclusion, and accelerate the nation’s ecological transition.
