Learn how to scale up
your business
Designed to empower African pre-seed startups with the essential resources and support they need to turn their projects into thriving businesses and succeed in their respective industries.
Startup Phase: POC+ to MVP
Duration: 5 Months
Field: All fields
Location: Pan-African
Format: Hybrid
Cohorts: 8
Trusted by
Program Overview
The OST Program is a pan-African pre-seed accelerator co-designed with Columbia Engineering and Columbia Business School. It empowers early-stage startups and top talents from across the African continent to build impactful ventures from the ground up.
Spanning five months, this hybrid program supports startups from the POC stage to the development of an MVP and helps them launch their solution. Participants benefit from customized training, technical support, and access to an international network of ecosystem builders, industry leaders and investors. Finalist startups will also have the opportunity to receive three 20K safe investment tickets from OST.
A key highlight of the program is the regional gathering in Tunisia, where selected startups come together in person with Columbia Business School experts and MBA students to exchange insights, expertise and build lasting partnerships.
The program also nurtures high-potential individual talents in tech, business, design, and other key fields, who join startup teams to gain hands-on experience and contribute to Africa’s next wave of innovation.
Program Milestones
Program Launch
Program
Launch
Selection &
Regional Gathering
Selection &
Regional Gathering
Training & Mentoring
Training &
Mentoring
Pitching Day
Pitching
Day
Eligibility
Startups
Startups
Pre-seed and seed stages startups, with at least a strong POC
You have a committed founder or team, ready to engage fully in the program
Your solution is tech-enabled and addresses a real market need
You are pre-seed and aiming for pan-African or global growth
Talents
Talents
Young professionals from across Africa, eager to gain startup experience
Backgrounds in tech, business, marketing, design, or related fields
Passion for innovation, entrepreneurship, and problem-solving
Strong communication, collaboration skills & Proficiency in English
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 International Experts
Participants in the program benefit from top-notch training facilitated by 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 Africa
The program facilitates networking opportunities, enabling entrepreneurs to connect with high-potential talents from diverse backgrounds across Africa. This networking can lead to valuable collaborations, partnerships, and a broader support network.
International Exposure
Participants gain visibility on an international level, 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 safe ticket investments
The program provides access to safe ticket investments. This financial support empowers startups to kickstart their ventures, allowing them to focus on growth and development.
Covered international immersions
Startups will be eligible for international exposure opportunities, gaining the chance to participate in renowned global events and showcase their ventures on international stages.
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.
Words From Our Alumni
"Our belief at Dooda is that insect-based food is the future of nutrition. It's a clear answer to address food security while reducing climate change. Our work is focused around developing high quality ingredients that meet the food industry international standards. OST's support allowed us to join IPIFF (International Platform for Insects as Feed and Food). This has been instrumental to the evolution of our project and allow us to ensure our position as a recognized producer and to have a seat at the table of this new industry."
Ali Abassi
Co-founder & COO
Dooda
"Since 2016, OST has been an exceptional partner for our Global Immersion Program at Columbia Business School. Our MBA students have gained invaluable insights into the African entrepreneurship ecosystem while significantly contributing to OST startups through mentoring, advising, and consulting. Together, we are empowering Africa's young entrepreneurs."
Kamel Jedidi
Marketing Professor
Columbia Business School
"Working closely with an OST startup was an enriching experience that allowed us to apply our business skills. We were able to assist the startup in navigating challenges, preparing for funding presentations, and broadening their skill sets beyond their niche startup expertise. Through this collaboration, I gained valuable insights into the innovative potential and resilience of startups in the MEA ecosystem. OST's dedication to empowering entrepreneurs through skill development and network building is truly commendable and pivotal in fostering sustainable growth. OST has done a phenomenal job in selecting the right startups that are leading the way in creating significant impact in the MEA region, and thus the partnership and experience felt rewarding."
Perna Kohli
MBA student
Columbia Business School
"OST was an amazing experience. It was such an enriching experience, both professionally and personally. I learned so much during the experience and I still apply what I learned today. It is the reason I ended up in Vienna pursuing further higher education. OST changed my view on what I want to do with my career."
Chem Toumi
Solo Talent
OST Program
"Our belief at Dooda is that insect-based food is the future of nutrition. It's a clear answer to address food security while reducing climate change. Our work is focused around developing high quality ingredients that meet the food industry international standards. OST's support allowed us to join IPIFF (International Platform for Insects as Feed and Food). This has been instrumental to the evolution of our project and allow us to ensure our position as a recognized producer and to have a seat at the table of this new industry."
Ali Abassi
Co-founder & COO
Dooda
"Since 2016, OST has been an exceptional partner for our Global Immersion Program at Columbia Business School. Our MBA students have gained invaluable insights into the African entrepreneurship ecosystem while significantly contributing to OST startups through mentoring, advising, and consulting. Together, we are empowering Africa's young entrepreneurs."
Kamel Jedidi
Marketing Professor
Columbia Business School
"Working closely with an OST startup was an enriching experience that allowed us to apply our business skills. We were able to assist the startup in navigating challenges, preparing for funding presentations, and broadening their skill sets beyond their niche startup expertise. Through this collaboration, I gained valuable insights into the innovative potential and resilience of startups in the MEA ecosystem. OST's dedication to empowering entrepreneurs through skill development and network building is truly commendable and pivotal in fostering sustainable growth. OST has done a phenomenal job in selecting the right startups that are leading the way in creating significant impact in the MEA region, and thus the partnership and experience felt rewarding."
Perna Kohli
MBA student
Columbia Business School
"OST was an amazing experience. It was such an enriching experience, both professionally and personally. I learned so much during the experience and I still apply what I learned today. It is the reason I ended up in Vienna pursuing further higher education. OST changed my view on what I want to do with my career."
Chem Toumi
Solo Talent
OST Program
"Our belief at Dooda is that insect-based food is the future of nutrition. It's a clear answer to address food security while reducing climate change. Our work is focused around developing high quality ingredients that meet the food industry international standards. OST's support allowed us to join IPIFF (International Platform for Insects as Feed and Food). This has been instrumental to the evolution of our project and allow us to ensure our position as a recognized producer and to have a seat at the table of this new industry."
Ali Abassi
Co-founder & COO
Dooda
"Since 2016, OST has been an exceptional partner for our Global Immersion Program at Columbia Business School. Our MBA students have gained invaluable insights into the African entrepreneurship ecosystem while significantly contributing to OST startups through mentoring, advising, and consulting. Together, we are empowering Africa's young entrepreneurs."
Kamel Jedidi
Marketing Professor
Columbia Business School
"Working closely with an OST startup was an enriching experience that allowed us to apply our business skills. We were able to assist the startup in navigating challenges, preparing for funding presentations, and broadening their skill sets beyond their niche startup expertise. Through this collaboration, I gained valuable insights into the innovative potential and resilience of startups in the MEA ecosystem. OST's dedication to empowering entrepreneurs through skill development and network building is truly commendable and pivotal in fostering sustainable growth. OST has done a phenomenal job in selecting the right startups that are leading the way in creating significant impact in the MEA region, and thus the partnership and experience felt rewarding."
Perna Kohli
MBA student
Columbia Business School
"OST was an amazing experience. It was such an enriching experience, both professionally and personally. I learned so much during the experience and I still apply what I learned today. It is the reason I ended up in Vienna pursuing further higher education. OST changed my view on what I want to do with my career."
Chem Toumi
Solo Talent
OST Program
"Our belief at Dooda is that insect-based food is the future of nutrition. It's a clear answer to address food security while reducing climate change. Our work is focused around developing high quality ingredients that meet the food industry international standards. OST's support allowed us to join IPIFF (International Platform for Insects as Feed and Food). This has been instrumental to the evolution of our project and allow us to ensure our position as a recognized producer and to have a seat at the table of this new industry."
Ali Abassi
Co-founder & COO
Dooda
"Since 2016, OST has been an exceptional partner for our Global Immersion Program at Columbia Business School. Our MBA students have gained invaluable insights into the African entrepreneurship ecosystem while significantly contributing to OST startups through mentoring, advising, and consulting. Together, we are empowering Africa's young entrepreneurs."
Kamel Jedidi
Marketing Professor
Columbia Business School
"Working closely with an OST startup was an enriching experience that allowed us to apply our business skills. We were able to assist the startup in navigating challenges, preparing for funding presentations, and broadening their skill sets beyond their niche startup expertise. Through this collaboration, I gained valuable insights into the innovative potential and resilience of startups in the MEA ecosystem. OST's dedication to empowering entrepreneurs through skill development and network building is truly commendable and pivotal in fostering sustainable growth. OST has done a phenomenal job in selecting the right startups that are leading the way in creating significant impact in the MEA region, and thus the partnership and experience felt rewarding."
Perna Kohli
MBA student
Columbia Business School
"OST was an amazing experience. It was such an enriching experience, both professionally and personally. I learned so much during the experience and I still apply what I learned today. It is the reason I ended up in Vienna pursuing further higher education. OST changed my view on what I want to do with my career."
Chem Toumi
Solo Talent
OST Program
"Our belief at Dooda is that insect-based food is the future of nutrition. It's a clear answer to address food security while reducing climate change. Our work is focused around developing high quality ingredients that meet the food industry international standards. OST's support allowed us to join IPIFF (International Platform for Insects as Feed and Food). This has been instrumental to the evolution of our project and allow us to ensure our position as a recognized producer and to have a seat at the table of this new industry."
Ali Abassi
Co-founder & COO
Dooda
"Since 2016, OST has been an exceptional partner for our Global Immersion Program at Columbia Business School. Our MBA students have gained invaluable insights into the African entrepreneurship ecosystem while significantly contributing to OST startups through mentoring, advising, and consulting. Together, we are empowering Africa's young entrepreneurs."
Kamel Jedidi
Marketing Professor
Columbia Business School
"Working closely with an OST startup was an enriching experience that allowed us to apply our business skills. We were able to assist the startup in navigating challenges, preparing for funding presentations, and broadening their skill sets beyond their niche startup expertise. Through this collaboration, I gained valuable insights into the innovative potential and resilience of startups in the MEA ecosystem. OST's dedication to empowering entrepreneurs through skill development and network building is truly commendable and pivotal in fostering sustainable growth. OST has done a phenomenal job in selecting the right startups that are leading the way in creating significant impact in the MEA region, and thus the partnership and experience felt rewarding."
Perna Kohli
MBA student
Columbia Business School
"OST was an amazing experience. It was such an enriching experience, both professionally and personally. I learned so much during the experience and I still apply what I learned today. It is the reason I ended up in Vienna pursuing further higher education. OST changed my view on what I want to do with my career."
Chem Toumi
Solo Talent
OST Program
"Our belief at Dooda is that insect-based food is the future of nutrition. It's a clear answer to address food security while reducing climate change. Our work is focused around developing high quality ingredients that meet the food industry international standards. OST's support allowed us to join IPIFF (International Platform for Insects as Feed and Food). This has been instrumental to the evolution of our project and allow us to ensure our position as a recognized producer and to have a seat at the table of this new industry."
Ali Abassi
Co-founder & COO
Dooda
"Since 2016, OST has been an exceptional partner for our Global Immersion Program at Columbia Business School. Our MBA students have gained invaluable insights into the African entrepreneurship ecosystem while significantly contributing to OST startups through mentoring, advising, and consulting. Together, we are empowering Africa's young entrepreneurs."
Kamel Jedidi
Marketing Professor
Columbia Business School
"Working closely with an OST startup was an enriching experience that allowed us to apply our business skills. We were able to assist the startup in navigating challenges, preparing for funding presentations, and broadening their skill sets beyond their niche startup expertise. Through this collaboration, I gained valuable insights into the innovative potential and resilience of startups in the MEA ecosystem. OST's dedication to empowering entrepreneurs through skill development and network building is truly commendable and pivotal in fostering sustainable growth. OST has done a phenomenal job in selecting the right startups that are leading the way in creating significant impact in the MEA region, and thus the partnership and experience felt rewarding."
Perna Kohli
MBA student
Columbia Business School
"OST was an amazing experience. It was such an enriching experience, both professionally and personally. I learned so much during the experience and I still apply what I learned today. It is the reason I ended up in Vienna pursuing further higher education. OST changed my view on what I want to do with my career."
Chem Toumi
Solo Talent
OST Program
"Our belief at Dooda is that insect-based food is the future of nutrition. It's a clear answer to address food security while reducing climate change. Our work is focused around developing high quality ingredients that meet the food industry international standards. OST's support allowed us to join IPIFF (International Platform for Insects as Feed and Food). This has been instrumental to the evolution of our project and allow us to ensure our position as a recognized producer and to have a seat at the table of this new industry."
Ali Abassi
Co-founder & COO
Dooda
"Since 2016, OST has been an exceptional partner for our Global Immersion Program at Columbia Business School. Our MBA students have gained invaluable insights into the African entrepreneurship ecosystem while significantly contributing to OST startups through mentoring, advising, and consulting. Together, we are empowering Africa's young entrepreneurs."
Kamel Jedidi
Marketing Professor
Columbia Business School
"Working closely with an OST startup was an enriching experience that allowed us to apply our business skills. We were able to assist the startup in navigating challenges, preparing for funding presentations, and broadening their skill sets beyond their niche startup expertise. Through this collaboration, I gained valuable insights into the innovative potential and resilience of startups in the MEA ecosystem. OST's dedication to empowering entrepreneurs through skill development and network building is truly commendable and pivotal in fostering sustainable growth. OST has done a phenomenal job in selecting the right startups that are leading the way in creating significant impact in the MEA region, and thus the partnership and experience felt rewarding."
Perna Kohli
MBA student
Columbia Business School
"OST was an amazing experience. It was such an enriching experience, both professionally and personally. I learned so much during the experience and I still apply what I learned today. It is the reason I ended up in Vienna pursuing further higher education. OST changed my view on what I want to do with my career."
Chem Toumi
Solo Talent
OST Program
"Our belief at Dooda is that insect-based food is the future of nutrition. It's a clear answer to address food security while reducing climate change. Our work is focused around developing high quality ingredients that meet the food industry international standards. OST's support allowed us to join IPIFF (International Platform for Insects as Feed and Food). This has been instrumental to the evolution of our project and allow us to ensure our position as a recognized producer and to have a seat at the table of this new industry."
Ali Abassi
Co-founder & COO
Dooda
"Since 2016, OST has been an exceptional partner for our Global Immersion Program at Columbia Business School. Our MBA students have gained invaluable insights into the African entrepreneurship ecosystem while significantly contributing to OST startups through mentoring, advising, and consulting. Together, we are empowering Africa's young entrepreneurs."
Kamel Jedidi
Marketing Professor
Columbia Business School
"Working closely with an OST startup was an enriching experience that allowed us to apply our business skills. We were able to assist the startup in navigating challenges, preparing for funding presentations, and broadening their skill sets beyond their niche startup expertise. Through this collaboration, I gained valuable insights into the innovative potential and resilience of startups in the MEA ecosystem. OST's dedication to empowering entrepreneurs through skill development and network building is truly commendable and pivotal in fostering sustainable growth. OST has done a phenomenal job in selecting the right startups that are leading the way in creating significant impact in the MEA region, and thus the partnership and experience felt rewarding."
Perna Kohli
MBA student
Columbia Business School
"OST was an amazing experience. It was such an enriching experience, both professionally and personally. I learned so much during the experience and I still apply what I learned today. It is the reason I ended up in Vienna pursuing further higher education. OST changed my view on what I want to do with my career."
Chem Toumi
Solo Talent
OST Program
Program Updates
OST Program TEAM
Get in contact
ost.program@open-startup.org