Expansion, Exposure, Growth

A pan-African investment readiness program designed for advanced startups aiming to raise their first 1M USD

Startup Phase: Seed stage

Duration: 12 months

Field: All

Location: Pan-African

Format: Online

Number of Cohorts: 1

Trusted by

Ready to raise your first 1MD$ ?

Grow is a 12-month investment readiness program designed for advanced startups in Africa. Developed in collaboration with AfricaGrow, BPI France, Go Ventures, and Africinvest Group, GROW aims to support African startups that fundraised up to 350K USD and are aiming to reach their first 1M USD and expand their businesses in new markets.

Pre-Apply for the next cohort or get involved as a coach/mentor/investor

Eligibility

Startups who raised 250k and looking to raise up to $1m Or they have significant sales/traction (about $500k ARR in revenues)

Startaps impacting Africa:

  1. Operating in Africa

  2. Creating jobs in Africa

2-4 co founders:

At least one African cofounder.

  • High-Quality Training led by National and International Experts

    Participants in the program benefit from top-notch training facilitated by both national and international experts. The curriculum is designed to provide comprehensive insights into various aspects of entrepreneurship, ensuring participants gain valuable knowledge and skills.

  • Strong Mentoring

    Entrepreneurs receive dedicated mentorship, providing them with personalized guidance and advice. This one-on-one mentorship helps startups navigate challenges, refine their strategies, and make informed decisions to enhance their chances of success.

  • Work with Columbia MBA Students

    Collaborating with Columbia MBA students offers a unique opportunity for practical engagement. This interaction allows startups to leverage the skills and fresh perspectives of the students, fostering a dynamic environment for innovation and growth.

  • Meet High-Potential Talents from Across Tunisia

    The program facilitates networking opportunities, enabling entrepreneurs to connect with high-potential talents from diverse backgrounds across Tunisia. This networking can lead to valuable collaborations, partnerships, and a broader support network.

  • National and International Exposure

    Participants gain visibility on both national and international levels, increasing their chances of attracting attention from investors, potential partners, and customers. This exposure is crucial for building a strong brand presence and expanding market reach.

  • Access to OST Community

    Entrepreneurs become part of the vibrant OST community, fostering a collaborative environment where knowledge-sharing, idea exchange, and mutual support are encouraged. Being part of a like-minded community enhances the overall entrepreneurial experience.

  • Access to Pre-Seed Funding with 0 Equity

    The program provides access to pre-seed funding without requiring equity in return. This financial support empowers startups to kickstart their ventures, allowing them to focus on growth and development.

  • Support for Prototyping

    Entrepreneurs receive assistance and resources for prototyping their products or solutions. This support is crucial for refining and testing ideas, ensuring that startups can bring viable and innovative products to market.

  • Paid Services

    The program offers access to paid services that can be instrumental in the operational and strategic aspects of startup development. This additional support enhances the overall capabilities of participating entrepreneurs.

  • Support in Getting a Label AIR1, AIR2

    Assistance is provided in obtaining relevant labels, such as AIR1 and AIR2, which can confer credibility and recognition. These labels can be valuable assets for startups seeking validation in their respective industries.

  • Full Immersion in the New York Ecosystem and Pitch in Columbia Venture Competition

    Participants benefit from a full immersion experience in the New York entrepreneurial ecosystem, gaining insights and connections that can be transformative. Additionally, the opportunity to pitch in the Columbia Venture Competition opens doors to further exposure and potential opportunities.

Program Benefits

Business Assessment

Curated workshops & personalized content with a focus on fundraising.

Hands-on support

Including 1:1 meetings, world-class coaching (Technology, peer, industry...), progress check-ins.

Talent Fellowship

Benefit from a fellowship that provides financial assistance to hire talent.

Community

Join a diversified & vibrant startup community.

Technical Assistance

Access expert guidance to optimize your IT systems, intellectual property, code quality, and data security.

Investor Access

Connect with a wide network of individual and institutional investors from the MEA region, pitch your startup, and secure potential investment opportunities.

Regional Exposure

Benefit from financial support to participate in international ecosystem events and expand your presence in new markets.

Program Structure

12-Months Journey

Embark on a program tailored to boost your startup's growth and investment readiness.

2-Months of Online Training

Personalized intensive online modules led by strong international trainers.

4-Months of Follow-up Mentorship

Ongoing guidance from experienced mentors

8-Months of investors Matching

VC clinics and exposure to a wide network of individual and institutional investors

Meet the startups Grow Cohort #1

Grow Team

Rihem Chahloul

Program Manager

Rihem Chahloul

Program Manager

Achref Mattar

Consultant

Achref Mattar

Consultant

Advisors team

Rutvik Deepak

GO Ventures Founding Team Member & Principal

Rutvik Deepak

GO Ventures Founding Team Member & Principal

Igor Ovcharenko

Chief innovation officer at Innovation and Digital Development Agency

Igor Ovcharenko

Chief innovation officer at Innovation and Digital Development Agency

Salmine Sassi

Venture Builder | Business Coach

Salmine Sassi

Venture Builder | Business Coach