Tunisian entrepreneurs have only a short time left to apply for the 216 Capital Venture Accelerator, a six-month program designed to help pre-seed startups secure investment and scale beyond local borders. Organized by 216 Capital in partnership with Plug and Play, the initiative offers funding, mentorship and global connections to strengthen Tunisia’s startup ecosystem. The program aims to identify, fund and grow promising tech-enabled businesses with at least half of their operations based in Tunisia.
Empowering Early-Stage Entrepreneurs
The 216 Capital Venture Accelerator is more than just a funding program, it is a platform to prepare Tunisian startups for long-term success. Each selected company will receive an initial €50,000 investment and participate in an intensive six-month journey that includes more than 500 one-on-one mentorship sessions, 30 investor meetings and 20 group sessions. Startups will also gain access to over 15 regional funds and Plug and Play’s vast international ecosystem of investors, corporates and mentors.
The accelerator will support up to 20 startups, each chosen for their potential to become investor-ready and expand into regional and global markets. With its sector-agnostic approach, the program welcomes a wide range of technology-driven startups, offering them practical guidance and international exposure.
According to Dhekra Khelifi, Partner at 216 Capital, the collaboration with Plug and Play represents a turning point for Tunisia’s innovation landscape. “This program marks an important milestone for the Tunisian ecosystem. By joining forces with Plug and Play, we are giving local founders the tools to structure their businesses, raise capital and access international markets,” she said.
This vision aligns with 216 Capital’s broader mission of building a strong African innovation ecosystem. The firm’s focus is rooted in a deep belief in the potential of African talent, a drive for innovation and a commitment to creating lasting impact. “We are not just investors; we are builders of a better future, one investment at a time,” the company notes.
Who Can Apply and What It Takes
The program targets pre-seed tech startups legally established in Tunisia or operating through a Tunisian subsidiary. To qualify, at least 50% of the team must be based in Tunisia and the company should already have a functional product prototype or MVP. Preference will be given to startups that have launched their MVP in the market or achieved early traction with first clients.
Diaspora founders with Tunisian operations are also encouraged to apply. The goal is to create an inclusive and collaborative ecosystem that brings together local and diaspora talent under a shared vision of growth and innovation.
Through tailored mentorship, training sessions and direct exposure to investors, startups will learn how to refine their business models and prepare for fundraising. The program’s combination of hands-on support and access to Plug and Play’s global network gives Tunisian founders the opportunity to connect with industry leaders, build partnerships and attract international capital.
Beyond funding, the accelerator emphasizes visibility and connection. Participating startups gain credibility by being part of a globally recognized platform, opening doors to markets across Africa, the Middle East and beyond.
Building a Future of Growth and Impact
At its core, the 216 Capital Venture Accelerator is about empowering the next generation of Tunisian entrepreneurs to compete on a global stage. It aims to strengthen Tunisia’s reputation as a regional hub for innovation and technology, positioning local founders for lasting success.
216 Capital describes its mission as more than financial investment. “We aspire to support the catalysts of innovation and sustainable development in Africa, creating a thriving ecosystem that empowers African entrepreneurs and harnesses the continent’s untapped potential,” the company affirms.
The accelerator embodies that mission by combining capital with knowledge, networks and mentorship. For early-stage entrepreneurs, this program represents a chance to transform ideas into scalable ventures, guided by experts who understand both local challenges and global opportunities.
For startups ready to grow, this is not just an opportunity, it is a gateway to global relevance. By joining the 216 Capital Venture Accelerator, Tunisian entrepreneurs can fast-track their journey from early-stage innovation to sustainable impact, ensuring that the country’s growing startup scene continues to thrive and inspire.
