Marrakech:The first edition of the Moroccan Sahara Innovation Challenge is currently being held in Marrakech, organized by Cadi Ayyad University (UCA) through its Innovation City. The event, themed “Innovating for Territories, Unlocking Potential, Shaping the Future,” is in collaboration with the Faculty of Sciences Semlalia (FSS), the Faculty of Science and Technology of Marrakech, and the Marrakech-Safi Regional Investment Centre, among other partners. The initiative is aimed at supporting development in Morocco’s Southern provinces by harnessing the creativity and skills of students and young innovators.
According to Agence Marocaine De Presse, the challenge seeks to provide innovative solutions to the specific challenges and needs of Morocco’s Southern regions. It is open to students, doctoral candidates, researchers, young innovators, start-ups, and project leaders from across the country, focusing on six key thematic areas crucial to the region’s development. These areas include “The Blue Economy,” “Water, Renewable Energy, and Green Transition,” “Agriculture, Food, and Bioresources,” “Mobility, Logistics, Connectivity, and Smart Territories,” “Art, Culture, Tourism, Sport, and Territorial Experience,” and “Entrepreneurship, Investment, and New Value Chains.”
Special emphasis is being placed on innovations that can enhance the positioning of the Southern provinces as a hub for exchange, investment, cooperation, and open innovation oriented toward Africa and the Atlantic region. The innovations are expected to have the potential for replication in other African territories and markets.
The opening ceremony of the event featured a panel discussion titled “Southern Provinces From African and Atlantic Outreach to Opportunities for Investment, Innovation, and Entrepreneurship,” which included participation from economic operators and researchers. Participants will engage in a bootcamp to enhance and present their projects, receiving practical experience and private coaching at UCA’s Innovation City.
The final competition before the jury is scheduled to take place at FSS, culminating in an awards and honors ceremony in Laayoune on October 31st. Winners and outstanding projects will be awarded cash prizes and a one-year post-challenge support and development program, courtesy of UCA Innovation City and its partners. Additionally, a Jury Choice Award will be given to a project recognized for its originality or exceptional potential for impact.