The World Trade Organization (WTO) is once again recognizing Morocco as a powerhouse of innovation in Africa. Through a new episode of its web series, “Tracing the Spirit of Marrakech,” the WTO honors the 30th anniversary of the Marrakesh Agreement by spotlighting the pioneering efforts of Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P). The university has become a catalyst for the growth of internationally-oriented startups.
Located on its modern campus in Ben Guerir, UM6P has established a dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem. This environment offers students, researchers, and project leaders cutting-edge tools to launch and expand their startups. With structured support programs that include training, access to advanced technological resources, and global networking opportunities, UM6P equips innovators to succeed on both local and international stages.
UM6P’s mission extends beyond simply promoting innovation; it actively supports startups in their quest to scale globally, attract investments, and become part of international economic systems. This strategic vision helps drive solutions that address critical challenges both within Africa and beyond.
Over the past four years, UM6P has developed a two-phase approach to entrepreneurship. The first phase focuses on fostering an entrepreneurial mindset through targeted training programs. The second phase involves incubation and pre-incubation initiatives, offering strategic and financial support to early-stage ventures. Recognizing the scarcity of venture capital in Africa, UM6P took matters into its own hands by launching UM6P Ventures, a venture capital arm specializing in early-stage investments.
UM6P Ventures has already funded 27 startups, including Deep Echo, a standout in the MedTech sector. This company uses artificial intelligence to detect prenatal abnormalities, aiming to improve healthcare access across Africa. Simultaneously, Deep Echo is pursuing opportunities in the U.S. healthcare market.
In the realm of agriculture, several startups affiliated with UM6P are utilizing satellite imagery and sensor technology to optimize farmland productivity. These innovations target one of Africa’s most pressing challenges—food security. With nearly 60% of the continent’s arable land underutilized, such advancements could unlock vast agricultural potential.
UM6P’s global partnerships bring top-tier expertise from around the world directly to African entrepreneurs. This strategic collaboration allows startups to access best practices and mentorship without the need to relocate to traditional innovation hubs like Silicon Valley. As a result, UM6P plays a crucial role in positioning Morocco as a continental leader in both innovation and entrepreneurship.
The university’s efforts are reshaping Morocco’s role in the global economy by fostering sustainable opportunities for future generations. Through this visionary approach, UM6P is igniting creativity, driving employment, and accelerating economic growth across the region.
