Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) has announced the launch of its startup contest “Explorer Innovation Fund,” an exceptional opportunity for students, researchers, and entrepreneurs to develop their innovative projects in Morocco. This startup contest is organized in partnership with the MIT Sandbox Innovation Fund and aims to provide a personalized educational and business experience for members of the UM6P, GEP, MASCIR, 1337, YouCode, Cadi Ayyad, Hassan II, Mohammed V, and Al Akhawayn communities.
What is the UM6P Explorer Innovation Fund?
The Explorer Innovation Fund program is designed to support innovators and entrepreneurs by offering seed resources for each participating team, ranging from 5,000 MAD to 250,000 MAD. Participants also benefit from mentorship by local and international experts, covering a wide range of technologies, business sectors, and disciplines.
Teams will be guided through the various stages of project development, including business plan creation, customer discovery, initial product definition, technological development, intellectual property, and legal structure. This startup contest aims to create a community of diverse innovators eager to impact the Moroccan, African, and global entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Why Participate in This Startup Contest?
UM6P, through its Explorer program, promotes a philosophy of learning by doing and need-based learning. Each cohort, lasting between 4 to 5 months, culminates in an Explorer showcase where groups can present their businesses and have the opportunity to pitch to a funding board.
Participating in this startup contest allows entrepreneurs to develop their entrepreneurial skills, expand their professional network, and transform innovative ideas into viable businesses. The program also values diversity and inclusiveness in entrepreneurship, offering a unique opportunity to collaborate with innovators from different disciplines and backgrounds.
About UM6P
Mohammed VI Polytechnic University (UM6P) is a center of excellence in education, research, innovation, and entrepreneurship, located in the “Mohammed VI Green City” in Benguerir, near Marrakech. UM6P applies a learning-by-doing approach and develops strong partnerships with world-class universities to promote leadership and training in focused research areas.
By training a new generation of Moroccan and African researchers, entrepreneurs, and leaders, UM6P positions itself at the forefront of technology and human sciences. For more information, visit the UM6P website at www.um6p.ma.
UM6P Ventures: The Sponsor of the Explorer Program
The Explorer program is sponsored by UM6P Ventures, as part of its mission to become the leading venture firm in Africa, by virtue of quality and inclusiveness in investment strategies. UM6P Ventures caters to innovators and entrepreneurs with venture projects at any level of development.
Unlike conventional investment funds, UM6P Ventures provides access to a comprehensive range of resources and capital, tailored to each stage of project maturity. The Explorer program serves as the entry point into this funnel, aiming to support the initiatives of students, researchers, and post-docs from the UM6P, GEP, MASCIR, 1337, YouCode, Cadi Ayyad, Hassan II, Mohammed V, and Al Akhawayn communities.
How to Apply for the UM6P Explorer Innovation Fund?
Applications for the “Explorer Innovation Fund” startup contest are open until August 30, 2024. Entrepreneurs are encouraged to submit their innovative projects to take advantage of this unique funding and support opportunity.
To apply, click on the following link: Explorer Innovation Fund Application.
In conclusion, the “Explorer Innovation Fund” startup contest by UM6P is a golden opportunity for entrepreneurs, students, and researchers to transform their innovative ideas into successful businesses while benefiting from quality funding and mentorship. Do not miss this chance to advance your projects and contribute to the entrepreneurial ecosystem in Morocco and beyond.