At Vivatech, Fayçal Adlouni, Managing Partner of Orange Ventures, and Grégoire de Padirac, CEO of Digital Africa, signed a partnership agreement aimed at enhancing support for African startups through the Orange Digital Centers (ODC). Asma Ennaifer, Executive Director of CSR, Communications, and the Orange Digital Center program for Orange Africa and the Middle East, expressed enthusiasm for the initiative, highlighting its reinforcement of the strategic partnership established in June 2023. This collaboration underscores the commitment of Orange Ventures and Digital Africa to increase investment in startups accelerated by the ODC network, facilitated by the Fuzé program. This initiative aims to double funding through joint appraisal and financing opportunities. The Orange Digital Center, present in 17 countries in Africa and the Middle East and 8 countries in Europe, offers diverse programs ranging from digital training to startup incubation and acceleration, fostering entrepreneurship and innovation in the region.
In the initial phase, five startups within the ODC network received up to €50,000 per startup under Digital Africa’s Fuzé program, enabling significant expansion of their activities. Orange Ventures and Digital Africa aim to accelerate startup growth through joint support schemes, demonstrating their commitment at the signing ceremony. Fayçal Adlouni emphasized Orange Group’s dedication to fostering technology champions in Africa and the Middle East. Asma Ennaifer highlighted Orange Digital Centers as innovation catalysts, enabling African startups to thrive in a rapidly evolving digital landscape. Grégoire de Padirac expressed delight in the partnership, aligning with Orange’s commitment to supporting African entrepreneurs from early stages.
Interested startups are encouraged to explore opportunities on Orange Ventures, Orange Digital Center, and Digital Africa websites.
