Tunisian Startup Ecosystem Set to Reach New Heights with 216 Capital Venture Accelerator by Plug and Play
The Tunisian startup ecosystem is poised to take a significant leap forward with the launch of the 216 Capital Venture Accelerator by Plug and Play, a program combining acceleration and investment to support the growth of young Tunisian companies on international markets. The call for applications will open on September 29, 2025, to select up to 60 startups, divided into cohorts of 20 companies each.
A Strategic Partnership
The result of a strategic partnership between Plug and Play Africa and 216 Capital, this program offers average investment tickets of 50,000 euros per startup, with an initial fund estimated at 3 million euros or more. The founders highlight three main axes to overcome the main obstacles faced by local startups: investment preparation, access to international markets, and visibility among a large network of investors and large companies.
Program Objectives
The program focuses on "investment preparation" to help high-potential startups interact effectively with investors and prepare for fundraising. It also aims to facilitate internationalization by opening up opportunities in markets such as Germany and the United States, thanks to global partners. Finally, it offers international visibility through access to a network of over 250 venture capital funds and more than 800 partner companies worldwide.
A Maturing Ecosystem
According to the initiators, the Tunisian ecosystem is currently in a "phase 2" of maturity, or "start-up wave 2", thanks to the work of many local players. The alignment between Plug and Play and 216 Capital is considered "extremely aligned", ensuring credibility and effectiveness. The growth potential for selected startups is perceived as unlimited, given this global network.
Ensuring Sustainability
To ensure the program's sustainability, a call is being made to large Tunisian companies to support and finance future cohorts. The stakeholders emphasize that the success of this first phase, based on credibility and execution, will condition future developments.
