4th Edition of IPDays: Fostering International Collaboration and Innovation
The 4th edition of IPDays, held on November 12 and 13, 2025, in Tunis, brought together entrepreneurs, innovators, and industry experts to discuss the importance of international collaboration and innovation. The event, organized by RedStart Tunisie, was themed around "L'international" (The International), highlighting the need for African and Mediterranean entrepreneurs to think beyond national borders.
A New Era for RedStart Tunisie
According to Douja Gharbi, CEO of RedStart Tunisie, the year 2025 marks a significant turning point for the organization. With the launch of AfriStart, a program funded by the French Development Agency (AFD) and implemented by Expertise France, RedStart Tunisie aims to support innovative startups and SMEs in their internationalization efforts. The program has already enabled several Tunisian startups to expand their reach beyond national borders, exploring new markets and opportunities.
Thinking Beyond National Borders
Assem Kamel, CEO of Seketak Solutions Egypt, emphasized the potential of the African region and the need for collaboration and internationalization. "I have always believed in the potential of our region," he said. "I have always wondered what would happen if Africans connected with each other to explore new markets. We have regenerated cross-border collaboration, and we have emerged with a shared vision, partnerships, and investments."
Mazen Al Kassem, Team Leader and Key Expert at Qawafel, highlighted the importance of an integrated approach to internationalization, combining formation, coaching, and fieldwork. Abdou Samba, responsible for the financial sector at the AFD in Tunis, stressed that international expansion is no longer a choice but a necessity for entrepreneurs.
Critical Challenges and Operational Levers
During the opening panel discussion, experts addressed the critical challenges and operational levers of international market access strategies. Aslan Berjeb, President of Conect, emphasized the need for regulatory change and better coordination between ministries, organizations, and entrepreneurs. Houda Trabelsi, Director of Tunisia Export-Cepex, highlighted the importance of strategic positioning and partnerships with international donors.
Mourad Belhassen, Director-General of Economic and Cultural Diplomacy at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, emphasized the role of diplomatic missions in identifying opportunities and supporting entrepreneurs. Majdi Hassen, Executive Director of IACE, called for a public-private partnership (PPP) synergy to support internationalization efforts.
Ruth Muriithi, responsible for the Economy of Knowledge and Innovation at Konza Technopolis Kenya, presented her agency's approach to innovation and partnership, highlighting the potential for collaboration between Kenya and Tunisia.
Key Takeaways
The 4th edition of IPDays highlighted the importance of international collaboration, innovation, and strategic positioning for African and Mediterranean entrepreneurs. The event emphasized the need for:
- Internationalization and cross-border collaboration
- Integrated approaches to formation, coaching, and fieldwork
- Regulatory change and better coordination between stakeholders
- Strategic positioning and partnerships with international donors
- Public-private partnership (PPP) synergy
- Diplomatic support and international cooperation
By fostering a culture of innovation and international collaboration, IPDays aims to support the growth and development of African and Mediterranean entrepreneurs, enabling them to compete in global markets and drive economic growth.
