In a significant move to bolster its knowledge-based economy, Algeria has officially launched the United Entrepreneurs of Algeria (UEA) initiative. The announcement was made during a press conference at the “Frantz Fanon” hall in Riad Al-Fath, signaling a strategic effort to foster innovation and reshape the nation’s entrepreneurial landscape.
A Strategic Vision for Entrepreneurship
Chakib Laribi, the founder of the initiative, emphasized that UEA is not an isolated event but a comprehensive, long-term vision. The primary goal is to bridge the gap between entrepreneurs, investors, and both national and international institutions. The initiative is built on a smart, sustainable economic model that leverages “Networking 4.0” and collective intelligence to empower the next generation of Algerian businesses.
Laribi highlighted that startups are a critical engine for job creation. He clarified that UEA’s core mission is to practically enable and guide entrepreneurs in launching their ventures, thereby contributing to economic growth even if direct employment isn’t the immediate outcome of the initiative itself.
Tackling Funding and Investor Gaps
A key focus for UEA is to address persistent challenges in the investment climate, particularly the lack of a clear regulatory framework for angel investors. Laribi noted that while angel investors exist in Algeria, the absence of efficient mechanisms to connect with and incentivize them hinders early-stage funding.
The initiative aims to champion the role of private funding and investment funds in ensuring the sustainability of the startup market. By creating a more structured environment, UEA seeks to support promising ideas from young innovators and connect them with the capital needed to scale.
AI-Powered Support with HALI and BusinessMatchAI
Underscoring the initiative’s commitment to technology, Laribi introduced two powerful AI-driven platforms. The first is HALI, Algeria’s first AI-powered mobile and web application designed to provide comprehensive support to entrepreneurs. HALI goes beyond simple communication, using AI to manage processes such as product searches, customer and supplier engagement, and the facilitation of commercial and legal procedures, thereby reducing reliance on traditional emails and meetings. The app also aims to connect the Algerian diaspora,
especially in countries like Spain and France, with local companies seeking to export or tap into African markets.
The second platform, BusinessMatchAI, was launched to facilitate targeted professional networking. It enables entrepreneurs to easily find suitable partners and co-founders, providing intelligent support to improve collaboration opportunities and stimulate investment within the ecosystem.
A Structured Annual Program
The United Entrepreneurs of Algeria initiative will be structured around four specialized annual sessions, each focusing on a strategic pillar aligned with national development priorities. These sessions will cover:
- Investment and Strategic Partnerships
- Innovation and Technology
- Food Security
- Financing and Fundraising
These events will be held throughout the year at symbolic locations, including the Moufdi Zakaria Palace of Culture, the Hamma Experimental Garden, and the port of Sidi Fredj, to maximize engagement between local and international entrepreneurs and investors.
About United Entrepreneurs of Algeria
United Entrepreneurs of Algeria (UEA) is a national initiative designed to restructure and accelerate the country’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Through a strategic framework that integrates technology, networking, and structured support programs, UEA aims to connect entrepreneurs with investors, mentors, and institutions to foster innovation, drive economic growth, and position Algeria as a key player in the regional startup landscape.
Source: Africanews.dz
