The Innovative Startups and SMEs project in Tunisia is launching its second regional tour for 2026, aiming to promote innovation funding and support for startups and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The tour, which begins on September 28, 2026, in El Kef, will visit four cities: El Kef, Monastir, Gafsa, and Jerjis. This initiative seeks to introduce the available funding mechanisms and support opportunities for innovative startups and SMEs.
The project, funded by the World Bank and implemented by the Tunisian Deposit and Consignments Fund in partnership with Capital Smart, focuses on enhancing access to funding sources for Tunisian innovative startups and SMEs. It also aims to develop the entrepreneurship ecosystem at the regional level, taking into account the specificities and economic potential of each region. The tour will provide a platform for entrepreneurs to meet with investors and various stakeholders in the fields of accompaniment and financing.
During the tour, participants will learn about the funding mechanisms established under the project, including the "ANAVA" fund of funds and its affiliated investment funds, which provide financing for startups through capital investment. Additionally, the "InnovaTECH" mechanism, dedicated to financing and supporting the development of innovative SMEs, will be presented. These funding opportunities are designed to support the growth and development of innovative enterprises.
The regional tour is a continuation of the work initiated in 2025, with a focus on the specificities, needs, and potential of each regional ecosystem. The project team will engage with entrepreneurs, listen to their needs, and address the challenges they face in terms of development and growth. By doing so, the project aims to provide tailored support and resources to foster the growth of innovative startups and SMEs.
The four stops on the regional tour will feature meetings and information sessions on the available funding mechanisms, as well as opportunities for networking between entrepreneurs, investors, and various stakeholders. Representatives from universities, technology poles, public structures, professional organizations, and private sector institutions will also participate in the events. These interactions will facilitate the exchange of ideas and promote collaboration.
The project's regional tour is expected to culminate in the announcement of detailed programs for each stop, as well as the opening of registration for the meetings dedicated to entrepreneurs. This information will be available on the project's digital platforms and those of its partners. By providing accessible information and resources, the project aims to support the development of a vibrant entrepreneurship ecosystem in Tunisia.
The Innovative Startups and SMEs project in Tunisia is part of a broader effort to promote entrepreneurship and innovation in the country. With the support of the World Bank and other partners, the project is helping to create a more favorable environment for startups and SMEs to grow and thrive. The second regional tour for 2026 is an important milestone in this effort, as it brings resources and opportunities closer to entrepreneurs across the country.
Key points
- The project aims to support the growth of innovative startups and SMEs in Tunisia by providing access to funding sources and promoting the development of the entrepreneurship ecosystem.
