Marrakech has hosted the opening of the first edition of the Moroccan Desert Innovation Challenge 2026, bringing together students, PhD candidates, researchers, young innovators, startups and project holders from across Morocco.
Organised by Cadi Ayyad University’s Innovation Hub and partner institutions, the challenge aims to develop solutions for the development needs of Morocco’s southern provinces and highlight the potential of student-led innovation.
The programme is built around six tracks: oceans, ports and the blue economy; water, renewable energy and the green transition; agriculture, food and bioresources; mobility, logistics and smart territories; arts, culture, tourism and sport; and entrepreneurship, investment and emerging value chains.
Participants will take part in an intensive training and mentoring programme at the Innovation Hub in Marrakech. Projects will be presented to a judging panel during the final stage, with the challenge concluding in Laayoune on October 31, when prizes will be awarded.
Winners and leading projects will receive financial awards and a year-long support programme focused on developing their ventures, led by Cadi Ayyad University’s Innovation Hub and its partners. A separate jury prize will recognise a highly innovative project with significant potential impact.
The initiative is organised under the theme “Territory, Potential, Future” and is intended to become an annual innovation event, according to the announcement.
Source: Marrakech Alaan
