Open Startup (OST) is a non-governmental organization dedicated to fostering innovation through entrepreneurship, education, and intercultural exchanges. By connecting ecosystems across Africa and beyond, OST aims to build communities that promote innovation and capacity development. On Wednesday, June 26, 2024, OST announced the opening of applications for its “OST Program,” a pan-African initiative designed in collaboration with Columbia Engineering and Columbia Business School in New York. This program aims to support early-stage startups and promising talents from Tunisia, Senegal, and Morocco.

The program will run from September 2024 to January 2025. It is specifically designed to help 30 selected startups (10 from each country) progress from the proof-of-concept (PoC) stage to a minimum viable product (MVP) through an intensive 18-week hybrid program.

Customized Training and Mentorship

Participants will benefit from personalized training and mentorship provided by international experts and supported by MBA students from Columbia Business School. They will also have access to an extensive international network, opening doors to new markets and potential investors. Additionally, immersive international trips to New York, Tunisia, and Morocco will be organized, offering participants global exposure and networking opportunities.

A total fund of 50,000 USD will be distributed among the finalist startups to stimulate their growth, without any equity dilution.

What is the OST Program?

The “OST Program” offers two distinct tracks. The first track is for early-stage startups that already have a PoC and are ready to develop their MVP and expand their operations. The second track is for individual talents — those passionate about entrepreneurship, possessing technical and/or interpersonal skills, and wishing to join dynamic startups and contribute to their success.

Interested candidates can apply via the following links:

• Startups: https://www.f6s.com/ost-program/apply
• Individual Talents: https://www.f6s.com/ost-program-solo-talent/apply

Applications will close on July 21, 2024. For more details about the program, please visit this link.

Open Startup (OST) is committed to fostering innovation through entrepreneurship, education, and intercultural exchanges, building communities that promote innovation and capacity development across Africa and beyond.