Dar Ventures, a Tunisian investment fund, has partnered with global accelerator Plug and Play to propel DarE, a platform focused on technologies for architecture, engineering, construction, and the built environment. This strategic alliance aims to expand DarE's impact by leveraging Plug and Play's international network and Dar's sector-specific expertise. The program will offer a global showcase and privileged access to markets and investors for participating startups.

The DarE program is designed for startups in the Pre-Seed to Pre-Series A phase, with a minimum viable product (MVP) or a market-ready product, and strong growth potential. Participants will benefit from a 12-week intensive hybrid program, including customized support, individual mentoring, and connections with sector experts. Although open to international applicants, the program prioritizes the Europe, Middle East, and Africa (EMEA) region.

Applications for the DarE program opened on September 24, 2026, with the cohort launch scheduled for November 2026. Interested startups can register directly on the official Plug and Play platform. The partnership brings together Dar Ventures, which has incubated over 30 companies and invested in 13 startups in three years, and Plug and Play, with its global network spanning over 60 offices.

The program's focus on architecture, engineering, construction, and built environment technologies reflects a growing need for innovation in these sectors. By accelerating technological advancements, the partnership aims to drive growth and transformation in the construction and infrastructure industries.

Dar Ventures has a proven track record of supporting startups, having incubated and invested in numerous companies over the past three years. The partnership with Plug and Play is expected to further enhance Dar Ventures' capabilities and expand its reach.

The DarE program's hybrid format combines online and offline components, providing participants with a flexible and comprehensive learning experience. The program's emphasis on mentorship and networking will enable startups to connect with experts and potential investors.

The partnership between Dar Ventures and Plug and Play has the potential to significantly impact the construction and infrastructure sectors by fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. The success of the DarE program will depend on the quality of the startups selected and the support they receive throughout the program.

Key points

  • Dar Ventures and Plug and Play partner to accelerate DarE, a platform for architecture, engineering, construction, and built environment technologies.
  • The DarE program targets startups in the Pre-Seed to Pre-Series A phase with strong growth potential.
  • Applications for the program opened on September 24, 2026, with a cohort launch scheduled for November 2026.

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SaharaWire Newsroom
SaharaWire

Reporting for SaharaWire from the Nairobi bureau.