Fez — Morocco has launched “Iqlaa,” a new accelerator for cultural and creative businesses, opening applications for young entrepreneurs seeking to expand their projects and reach new markets.
Africalia, Hiba Foundation, and the French Institute launched the program’s first call for applications on August 27. The initiative receives funding from the European Union and forms part of broader efforts to support Morocco’s cultural and creative industries.
The first edition will select around 20 businesses. Applications remain open until September 27 at 11:59 p.m. local time.
Support for Morocco’s creative entrepreneurs
“Iqlaa” targets Moroccan cultural and creative businesses led by entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 35.
Eligible sectors include animation, video games, multimedia, crafts, performing arts, visual arts, television, radio, cinema, festivals, publishing, fashion, design, music, heritage, cultural tourism, architecture, gastronomy, media, advertising, and marketing.
The accelerator will run through three editions until the end of 2029.
Its first edition will guide selected businesses through three stages: Integration, Reinforcement, and Impulsion. The first two phases will focus on strengthening business models, while the final stage will prepare selected participants for investment and export opportunities.
The official program also outlines a more detailed path for participants, including an intensive preparation phase and the possibility of an immersive stay in Europe for businesses advancing to the final stage.
Funding and growth opportunities
The program will combine targeted training, business coaching, peer exchanges, networking, and financial support.
Selected businesses can receive seed grants ranging from MAD 30,000 ($ 3,230) to MAD 50,000 ($ 5,380). Companies advancing through the program may also qualify for growth grants of up to MAD 450,000 ($ 48,444).
Applicants must operate legally registered businesses in Morocco and must have existed for at least one year by the application deadline. Associations, nonprofit organizations, and public or semi-public entities are not eligible.
The first edition is scheduled to begin with the Integration phase in November 2026. Organizers expect the program to continue into 2027, with the final acceleration stage running between April and August.
Entrepreneurs can apply through the official “Iqlaa” program page. More information is also available through the explore announcement published by the European Union Delegation to Morocco.
“Iqlaa” arrives as Morocco places greater emphasis on the economic potential of its creative industries. Beyond supporting individual businesses, the initiative could help give young Moroccan creators a stronger path from cultural production to sustainable entrepreneurship, investment, and international growth.
