Connect'Innov Launches ExPan'Africa Program to Accelerate Internationalization of Tunisian HealthTech Startups
Connect'Innov, a specialized support structure in the HealthTech sector, is launching its new program: ExPan'Africa. This program aims to accelerate the internationalization of Tunisian HealthTech startups and SMEs by providing them with the necessary tools and networks to succeed in African markets.
Launched in June 2024, as part of the Ǫawafel program funded by the French Development Agency (AFD) and implemented by Expertise France, the pilot phase of ExPan'Africa focuses on Senegal and Mauritania. Over 18 months, selected startups will benefit from personalized support to facilitate their development in these promising markets.
A Program to Overcome Internationalization Challenges
"HealthTech startups and SMEs have significant potential to address international markets, but they face numerous obstacles when it comes to internationalization, especially in Africa," explains Chema Boukadi, ExPan'Africa program manager at Connect'Innov.
The lack of clear and structured information on African markets, regulatory complexities, and the challenge of creating a reliable network of partners often hinder their expansion. Moreover, the scarcity of adapted support programs and dedicated funding for internationalization exacerbates these difficulties.
ExPan'Africa aims to address these challenges by offering Tunisian HealthTech startups tailored support to maximize their chances of success in international markets.
A Comprehensive Program for Concrete Results
The ExPan'Africa program offers selected startups and SMEs a personalized support package that includes:
- Access to local expert and partner networks: Facilitating connections with potential partners and experts in target markets
- Commercial skills development: Training and individualized coaching sessions to optimize sales and growth strategies
- Financial and logistical support: Coverage of travel expenses (flights and accommodation) for a 3-4 day prospecting mission to Senegal or Mauritania
- Support for concrete projects: Contribution to certain expenses related to international expansion (up to €1,000 per project)
- Integration into local ecosystems: Organization of B2B meetings to facilitate rapid and effective integration
Raising Awareness and Informing
In addition to the support program, a large-scale awareness campaign has been launched to inform and mobilize interested actors. The "Les Mercredis de l'Export" webinar series, launched on August 28, 2024, is open to all entrepreneurs interested in the African market, particularly those in the HealthTech sector. These sessions will cover general topics on internationalization in Africa, followed by specific focus on the Senegalese and Mauritanian markets. Partners, experts, and Tunisian and African entrepreneurs will share their experiences and advice to better understand the challenges and opportunities of these markets.
Call for Applications
The call for applications to join the ExPan'Africa program is open until September 30, 2024. It is addressed to HealthTech startups and SMEs that:
- Design and market their own products and/or solutions
- Have already generated revenue locally and/or internationally
- Wish to acquire the necessary tools, skills, and networks to develop in the Mauritanian and/or Senegalese markets
Applications can be submitted via the following form: https://forms.gle/tc55D7LmG97vFx7AA
For more information, follow ExPan'Africa on LinkedIn and Facebook.
