• New cluster brings together startups, universities, and research centers
• Initiative aims to boost innovation and tech competitiveness
• Part of broader plan to reach 20,000 startups by 2029

Algeria on April 18 launched its first national startup cluster dedicated to artificial intelligence and cybersecurity at the Sidi Abdellah science and technology hub in Algiers. The initiative marks a new step in efforts to structure the country’s innovation ecosystem and strengthen the role of tech startups in the economy.

The cluster is designed as an integrated platform bringing together startups, universities, research centers, and industry players around shared projects. It aims to support the development of innovative solutions in strategic areas such as artificial intelligence, cybersecurity, and smart digital services.

One of its key features is its openness to startups from both academic and traditional entrepreneurial backgrounds, with the goal of fostering collaboration and speeding up the transition from research projects to real-world applications.

The initiative is led jointly by the ministries of higher education, the knowledge economy, and telecommunications. It forms part of a broader government strategy to expand the startup ecosystem. President Abdelmadjid Tebboune has set a target of reaching 20,000 startups by 2029, with universities expected to play a central role as hubs of innovation and talent.

As of June last year, authorities reported 1,600 micro-enterprises, 130 startups, and 1,175 projects labeled as “innovative,” along with more than 2,800 patents filed.

Through initiatives like this cluster, Algeria aims to accelerate its transition toward a knowledge-based economy, where technological innovation serves as a key driver of growth. Globally, such clusters are seen as tools to boost competitiveness, attract investment, and support the emergence of high-potential companies.

Samira Njoya