The Mauritanian International Trade Bank (BMCI) has announced the launch of the sixth edition of the "BMCI Entrepreneurship Challenge", a program aimed at supporting startups and innovative projects in Mauritania. The challenge is being held under the supervision of the Sidi Mohamed Abbas Foundation. This year's edition targets startups that have a prototype and proof of concept, with selection criteria based on innovation, economic viability, social impact, and team efficiency.
The challenge will allow 20 projects to participate in an intensive training program, with six projects selected to benefit from four months of close monitoring, including training, mentoring, business plan development, and project presentation preparation. Each project will receive 20 hours of individual guidance. The program aims to support the growth and development of innovative projects in Mauritania.
The BMCI has allocated a total of 18 million ouguiya in prize money for the top three projects. The first-place project will receive 10 million ouguiya, the second-place project will receive 5 million ouguiya, and the third-place project will receive 3 million ouguiya. The prizes are designed to support the winners in implementing and scaling their projects.
The selection process for the challenge is based on several criteria, including innovation, economic viability, social impact, and team efficiency. The BMCI is looking for projects that have the potential to make a positive impact in Mauritania and contribute to the country's economic growth.
The application period for the challenge runs from October 26 to November 24, 2026, and can be accessed through the Sidi Mohamed Abbas Foundation's digital platform. Interested applicants can submit their applications and access the application form through the website.
The BMCI Entrepreneurship Challenge has become a major event in Mauritania's entrepreneurial ecosystem, providing opportunities for startups and innovative projects to access funding, mentorship, and support. The challenge has supported several projects in previous editions and has contributed to the growth of the country's entrepreneurial sector.
The sixth edition of the BMCI Entrepreneurship Challenge is expected to attract a large number of applications from across Mauritania. The program's organizers hope to identify and support innovative projects that have the potential to drive economic growth and create jobs in the country.
Key points
- The challenge targets startups with a prototype and proof of concept.
- The program offers four months of close monitoring and support to selected projects.
- The top three projects will receive a total of 18 million ouguiya in prize money.
