Learn how to scale up
your business
Designed to empower pre-seed startups with the essential ressources and support they need to turn their projects into thriving businesses and succeed in their respective industries.
Startup Phase: Poc to MVP
Duration: 18 weeks
Field: All fields
Location: Tunisia and Senegal, Morocco
Format: Hybrid
Cohorts: 5
Trusted by
Program Overview
The OST Program is a pan-African pre-seed accelerator, jointly crafted with Columbia Engineering and Columbia Business School, dedicated to empowering early-stage startups and promising individuals from Tunisia, Senegal & Morocco.
Spanning 18 weeks, this hashtag #hybrid program is designed to guide startups from a POC to MVP stage, providing a comprehensive suite of resources. These include customized training and mentoring from global experts, access to an extensive international network, a pool of $50K zero-equity cash prize, technical startup support, international exposure through immersive trips to Tunisia, Morocco & the United States, and a plethora of other valuable offerings.
Program Milestones
Onboarding
Program
Demo Day
US immersion trip
US immersion
trip
Eligibility
STARTUPS
Emerging startups with bold visions, poised to elevate their projects, scale their enterprises and unveil a Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
Solo Talents
Talented individuals, whether engineers, marketers, designers, medical students, or business enthusiasts, possessing valuable skills and a fervor for startups. They seek to join an energetic team and make meaningful contributions to its achievements.
Program Benefits
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Words From Our Alumni
“As a startup, joining the OST incubator was a game-changer for us. Not only did we have access to valuable resources and support from the OST team, but we also gained invaluable insights and connections through the diverse network of entrepreneurs and mentors in the incubator. The mentorship and guidance provided by the OST team and their partners was instrumental in helping us grow and succeed as a company. We highly recommend the OST incubator to any startup looking to take their business to the next level..”
Mehdi Mhamdi
CEO of Freelancy
"OST is one of a kind startup program, it gave me the launchpad I needed to improve my business and even my skills on a personal level, it was a breaking point for me on so many levels, and even after the program they are still supporting me whenever I need them."
Hadhami Rjiba
CEO of Relead
"OST pre-incubator has been an enriching experience where we developed our project and enhanced our skills. The program had everything we needed to kickstart our startup, including an insane quality of workshops and mentors, an exciting competitive structure, and a fantastic community. Definitely, the BEST program I've ever
taken part in."
Slim Labassi
CEO of Trainini
“As a startup, joining the OST incubator was a game-changer for us. Not only did we have access to valuable resources and support from the OST team, but we also gained invaluable insights and connections through the diverse network of entrepreneurs and mentors in the incubator. The mentorship and guidance provided by the OST team and their partners was instrumental in helping us grow and succeed as a company. We highly recommend the OST incubator to any startup looking to take their business to the next level..”
Mehdi Mhamdi
CEO of Freelancy
"OST is one of a kind startup program, it gave me the launchpad I needed to improve my business and even my skills on a personal level, it was a breaking point for me on so many levels, and even after the program they are still supporting me whenever I need them."
Hadhami Rjiba
CEO of Relead
"OST pre-incubator has been an enriching experience where we developed our project and enhanced our skills. The program had everything we needed to kickstart our startup, including an insane quality of workshops and mentors, an exciting competitive structure, and a fantastic community. Definitely, the BEST program I've ever
taken part in."
Slim Labassi
CEO of Trainini
“As a startup, joining the OST incubator was a game-changer for us. Not only did we have access to valuable resources and support from the OST team, but we also gained invaluable insights and connections through the diverse network of entrepreneurs and mentors in the incubator. The mentorship and guidance provided by the OST team and their partners was instrumental in helping us grow and succeed as a company. We highly recommend the OST incubator to any startup looking to take their business to the next level..”
Mehdi Mhamdi
CEO of Freelancy
"OST is one of a kind startup program, it gave me the launchpad I needed to improve my business and even my skills on a personal level, it was a breaking point for me on so many levels, and even after the program they are still supporting me whenever I need them."
Hadhami Rjiba
CEO of Relead
"OST pre-incubator has been an enriching experience where we developed our project and enhanced our skills. The program had everything we needed to kickstart our startup, including an insane quality of workshops and mentors, an exciting competitive structure, and a fantastic community. Definitely, the BEST program I've ever
taken part in."
Slim Labassi
CEO of Trainini
“As a startup, joining the OST incubator was a game-changer for us. Not only did we have access to valuable resources and support from the OST team, but we also gained invaluable insights and connections through the diverse network of entrepreneurs and mentors in the incubator. The mentorship and guidance provided by the OST team and their partners was instrumental in helping us grow and succeed as a company. We highly recommend the OST incubator to any startup looking to take their business to the next level..”
Mehdi Mhamdi
CEO of Freelancy
"OST is one of a kind startup program, it gave me the launchpad I needed to improve my business and even my skills on a personal level, it was a breaking point for me on so many levels, and even after the program they are still supporting me whenever I need them."
Hadhami Rjiba
CEO of Relead
"OST pre-incubator has been an enriching experience where we developed our project and enhanced our skills. The program had everything we needed to kickstart our startup, including an insane quality of workshops and mentors, an exciting competitive structure, and a fantastic community. Definitely, the BEST program I've ever
taken part in."
Slim Labassi
CEO of Trainini
“As a startup, joining the OST incubator was a game-changer for us. Not only did we have access to valuable resources and support from the OST team, but we also gained invaluable insights and connections through the diverse network of entrepreneurs and mentors in the incubator. The mentorship and guidance provided by the OST team and their partners was instrumental in helping us grow and succeed as a company. We highly recommend the OST incubator to any startup looking to take their business to the next level..”
Mehdi Mhamdi
CEO of Freelancy
"OST is one of a kind startup program, it gave me the launchpad I needed to improve my business and even my skills on a personal level, it was a breaking point for me on so many levels, and even after the program they are still supporting me whenever I need them."
Hadhami Rjiba
CEO of Relead
"OST pre-incubator has been an enriching experience where we developed our project and enhanced our skills. The program had everything we needed to kickstart our startup, including an insane quality of workshops and mentors, an exciting competitive structure, and a fantastic community. Definitely, the BEST program I've ever
taken part in."
Slim Labassi
CEO of Trainini
“As a startup, joining the OST incubator was a game-changer for us. Not only did we have access to valuable resources and support from the OST team, but we also gained invaluable insights and connections through the diverse network of entrepreneurs and mentors in the incubator. The mentorship and guidance provided by the OST team and their partners was instrumental in helping us grow and succeed as a company. We highly recommend the OST incubator to any startup looking to take their business to the next level..”
Mehdi Mhamdi
CEO of Freelancy
"OST is one of a kind startup program, it gave me the launchpad I needed to improve my business and even my skills on a personal level, it was a breaking point for me on so many levels, and even after the program they are still supporting me whenever I need them."
Hadhami Rjiba
CEO of Relead
"OST pre-incubator has been an enriching experience where we developed our project and enhanced our skills. The program had everything we needed to kickstart our startup, including an insane quality of workshops and mentors, an exciting competitive structure, and a fantastic community. Definitely, the BEST program I've ever
taken part in."
Slim Labassi
CEO of Trainini
“As a startup, joining the OST incubator was a game-changer for us. Not only did we have access to valuable resources and support from the OST team, but we also gained invaluable insights and connections through the diverse network of entrepreneurs and mentors in the incubator. The mentorship and guidance provided by the OST team and their partners was instrumental in helping us grow and succeed as a company. We highly recommend the OST incubator to any startup looking to take their business to the next level..”
Mehdi Mhamdi
CEO of Freelancy
"OST is one of a kind startup program, it gave me the launchpad I needed to improve my business and even my skills on a personal level, it was a breaking point for me on so many levels, and even after the program they are still supporting me whenever I need them."
Hadhami Rjiba
CEO of Relead
"OST pre-incubator has been an enriching experience where we developed our project and enhanced our skills. The program had everything we needed to kickstart our startup, including an insane quality of workshops and mentors, an exciting competitive structure, and a fantastic community. Definitely, the BEST program I've ever
taken part in."
Slim Labassi
CEO of Trainini
“As a startup, joining the OST incubator was a game-changer for us. Not only did we have access to valuable resources and support from the OST team, but we also gained invaluable insights and connections through the diverse network of entrepreneurs and mentors in the incubator. The mentorship and guidance provided by the OST team and their partners was instrumental in helping us grow and succeed as a company. We highly recommend the OST incubator to any startup looking to take their business to the next level..”
Mehdi Mhamdi
CEO of Freelancy
"OST is one of a kind startup program, it gave me the launchpad I needed to improve my business and even my skills on a personal level, it was a breaking point for me on so many levels, and even after the program they are still supporting me whenever I need them."
Hadhami Rjiba
CEO of Relead
"OST pre-incubator has been an enriching experience where we developed our project and enhanced our skills. The program had everything we needed to kickstart our startup, including an insane quality of workshops and mentors, an exciting competitive structure, and a fantastic community. Definitely, the BEST program I've ever
taken part in."
Slim Labassi
CEO of Trainini
Program Updates
