Open Startup (OST) Program 2026

The Open Startup (OST) Pre-seed Accelerator Program is designed to foster the growth of the African startup ecosystem. Developed in collaboration with Columbia Engineering and Columbia Business School in New York, the program targets early-stage startups and promising talents from Tunisia, Senegal, and Morocco. The intensive 18-week hybrid program aims to help 30 selected startups (10 from each country) advance from a proof of concept stage to a minimum viable product (MVP). Participants will receive zero-equity funding of $50,000, distributed among finalists to support their growth. Beyond funding, the program offers customized training and mentoring from experts, supported by MBA students from Columbia Business School. It also provides access to an extensive international network and includes trips to New York, Tunisia, and Morocco, offering valuable international exposure and networking opportunities. The program is open to early-stage startups with a proof of concept and individuals possessing relevant soft and technical skills.

Apply online via the Open Startup (OST) portal. Applications for the 2026 pre-seed and seed cohorts close 31 July 2026.