Morocco is reinforcing its position as one of Africa’s fastest-growing startup ecosystems, supported by years of structural reforms, expanding innovation infrastructure, and a growing network of entrepreneurship support organisations.
According to Lamiae Benmakhlouf, CEO of Technopark Morocco, the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem has evolved significantly over the past two decades, benefiting from coordinated efforts to improve startup funding, business support, and innovation capacity. Speaking on the occasion of Morocco’s Throne Day, Benmakhlouf said these developments have strengthened the country’s standing in global innovation and digital transformation rankings.
Morocco is now home to approximately 400,000 active businesses, with micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) accounting for nearly 90% of the total. These businesses remain the backbone of the national economy, contributing to job creation and economic value while continuing to benefit from targeted support programmes.
The government has introduced a combination of tax incentives, financing mechanisms, and regional development initiatives designed to support companies throughout their growth journey. Benmakhlouf identified access to finance, market expansion, and innovation as the three key pillars for improving the competitiveness of Moroccan businesses.
A central role in this ecosystem is played by Technopark Morocco, which provides incubation, mentoring, and business support services across multiple regions. The organisation reports a startup survival rate of nearly 90% five years after incorporation among companies that have participated in its programmes.
Founded in Casablanca in 2001, Technopark has expanded its presence to Rabat, Tangier, Agadir, and Essaouira, while new innovation hubs are currently being established in Fez, Oujda, and Tiznit. The expansion aims to make entrepreneurship support more accessible across the country.
Over the past 25 years, Technopark has supported more than 3,500 technology startups. In 2025 alone, the 500 startups hosted within its programmes created approximately 1,700 direct jobs, while 35% successfully exported their products and services to international markets.
Looking ahead, Morocco plans to further strengthen its innovation economy by prioritising strategic sectors including artificial intelligence, data technologies, healthtech, and fintech. The country’s long-term ambition is to enhance its digital sovereignty while positioning itself as a leading innovation hub for Africa and the wider region.
Source: ExpressTV
