Tunis Chamber of Commerce launches 'SPEEDUP' hub to boost startups internationally

Tunisia's entrepreneurial ecosystem is set to receive a significant boost with the launch of "SPEEDUP," an international-level incubation initiative designed to enhance export competitiveness. The Tunis Chamber of Commerce and Industry (CCI) has officially established this commercial execution center, envisioned as a hub for technological innovation and mentorship for Tunisian SMEs and high-potential startups.

Set to open its doors in autumn 2026, the innovation center will operate under the framework of the "Europe Interreg NEXT MED" transnational cooperation program. It will foster a Euro-Mediterranean alliance connecting Tunisia with seven partner nations, providing beneficiaries with a direct channel to forge business partnerships and adopt global management best practices. The center plans to host between 15 and 25 participants in person while also offering virtual access to its services and resources, thereby broadening its reach.

The core objective of SPEEDUP is to provide multifaceted assistance, helping entrepreneurs overcome barriers such as customs regulations and market access challenges in Western countries. Expert teams will conduct training sessions and facilitate international networking, guiding participating companies to align with crucial Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) criteria necessary for securing international funding.

To support these efforts, a budget of 315,300 euros has been allocated for Tunisia over a 36-month period concluding in 2028. Operationally, the physical site will accommodate an initial cohort of about twenty executives for hands-on coaching, while all training modules and databases will be accessible via a virtual portal to ensure widespread availability across the country. This initiative directly addresses structural weaknesses in local businesses, often hampered by limited capital and complex cross-border logistics.