Africalia, Fondation Hiba, and Institut français, in partnership with the European Union, are launching the very first call for applications of the Iqlaa programme, an acceleration programme for Moroccan cultural and creative businesses.

The aim of this call is to identify the twenty or so cultural and creative businesses that will be part of the first edition of the program.

An accelerator to boost the growth of young companies

Iqlaa is a new accelerator program dedicated to Moroccan cultural and creative businesses. It aims to strengthen the skills of young cultural entrepreneurs, support the growth of their businesses, and help them scale up. Rolled out over three editions until the end of 2029, the program will, in its first edition, support around twenty businesses in developing their activities and implementing their growth plans, through a targeted approach and financial support tailored to their needs.

This call is aimed at companies in the Cultural and Creative Industries (CCI) led by young entrepreneurs aged 18 to 35, based in Morocco, who wish to accelerate their development and change scale.

The Iqlaa formula

The Iqlaa programme will unfold in three successive stages — the Onboarding, Strengthening, and Impulse stage — designed to support the CCI businesses throughout the different stages of their growth. The two first phases will focus on the consolidation of the economic model, whereas the third phase will contribute to the scale up process through preparation for investment and export.

Moreover, the allocating of a seed grant (30.000 to 50.000 dirhams) and a growth grant (up to 450.000 dirhams) will further support the businesses’ growth and consolidate their position within the Moroccan cultural and creative ecosystem.

On the programme:

• Targeted training programs
• Business coaching
• Peer-to-peer meetings
• A network within the Moroccan cultural and creative ecosystem
• Funding to implement its growth project

How to apply?

Applications are open until September 27th, 2026 (11.59pm Moroccan time).

An online information session will take place on Wednesday September 9th at 12pm (Moroccan time). Additionally, in-person info sessions will be organised across Morocco (time and place TBA).

To apply, complete the application form in the language of your choice: https://cutt.ly/aygICpT5

To register for the information session: https://cutt.ly/QygIBjk7