New Deal to Boost African Startups’ Access to European Markets
Orange Middle East and Africa has entered a three-year partnership with risingSUD, the economic development agency of the Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur region, to accelerate the global expansion of African and Middle Eastern startups.
Through this collaboration, startups connected to the ODC ecosystem will gain direct access to risingSUD’s localized expertise, including support in business development, securing investment, and building international networks.
The initiative is particularly significant for startups across Africa, where the entrepreneurial ecosystem continues to expand but often faces barriers to scaling globally. The ODC network, currently active in 17 countries across Africa and the Middle East, provides a free, integrated support system offering digital skills training, startup incubation, acceleration, and funding.
“This partnership with risingSUD marks a key step in our ambition to promote African innovation internationally. It is a continuation of the support we offer startups through our Orange Digital Centres,” said Jérôme Hénique, CEO of Orange Middle East and Africa.
By 2024, risingSUD had already helped 14 African businesses establish operations in France, including Tunisian startup Guépard, which opened an office in Marseille. The new partnership aims to expand that footprint, creating a structured pathway for more African startups to connect with European markets.
Hénique emphasized, “By facilitating their establishment and acceleration in France, we are giving young African companies the means to accelerate their growth.”
For East African startups navigating competitive local markets and limited venture capital, the partnership offers a rare bridge into Europe’s tech ecosystem.
Bernard Kleynhoff, President of risingSUD added: “The South of France is a natural bridge between Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. This partnership opens up new economic opportunities and constitutes a real springboard for the development of businesses on both sides of the Mediterranean.”