How To Launch A Startup In Casablanca

Casablanca is Morocco’s biggest city and one of the key drivers for business in Northern Africa. The city is home to Morocco’s main port for trading and alongside this, has a rapidly growing finance centre. Between its intricate architecture and busy local markets, it is quickly becoming a top destination for startups.

If you’re an entrepreneur curious about the opportunities in this city, then read on to find out more about Casablanca’s potential and how to start a business there.

Why Start A Business In Casablanca?

Casablanca makes up around 64% of Morocco’s startup ecosystem, and there are a couple of reasons as to why this city in particular is attracting so many new ventures.

Ideal location: Not only can Casablanca serve the rest of Africa which is seeing massive growth as a continent, but also the Middle East and Europe for entrepreneurs who aim to trade internationally.

Strong workforce: The city boasts plenty of technical schools and universities which are producing a steady stream of graduates. These learners are particularly skilled in engineering and technology and are ready to join the workforce of startups.

Startup-friendly: Casablanca has taken major steps to accommodate the growth of new startups in the form of incubators and co-working spaces.

Industries With High-Growth Potential

If this Moroccan city is at the top of your list for startup destinations, you may be wondering which industries to consider innovating in. While opportunities exist in almost every sector, these ones have seen significant success specifically in Casablanca.

Technology: Tech startups have been on the rise, spanning healthtech, finance and e-commerce. As the residents become more tech savvy, the need for digital services are in high demand.

Logistics: As the central port city, Casablanca is home to a range of logistics and transport companies especially those in importing and exporting.

Finance: With the Casablanca Finance City, finance has become one of the top industries with a robust financial sector offering opportunities in fintech.

Agritech: Agriculture is one of Morocco’s biggest sectors and startups in sustainable food packaging or innovative farming can thrive.

Top Accelerator And Incubator Programmes

Accelerators and incubators are an invaluable part of a startup’s development phase. Their networking connections, business advice and sometimes financial support can set founders on the right path from day one to navigate startup challenges and have the best chance at succeeding.

Let’s take a look at some of the top programmes in Casablanca.

Technopark Casablanca: This tech hub is supported by the government and provides startups with training and incubation specifically for green tech companies.

StartUp Maroc: This popular non-profit arranges pitches and events to help startup founders meet potential mentors and investors.

Impact Lab: An accelerator to help with training and support specifically for social and environmental challenges.

Cluster Solaire: An incubator that works with green energy startups, offering them industry connections and funding.

Funding Opportunities For Startups

Securing funding is one of the immediate challenges facing startups but there are a range of financial avenues to consider in Casablanca.

Government grants: Caisse Centrale de Garantie offers loans to startups and small to medium size enterprises (SMEs) while the Moroccan Investment and Export Development Agency offers guidance to foreign investors.

Venture capital or angel investors: Outlierz Ventures offers funding to African startups and Angels4Africa supports early-stage startups.

Banks: There are a few Moroccan banks like BMCE Bank have startup loans and microfinance options for new founders.

Visa Requirements For Foreign Entrepreneurs

For international entrepreneurs who want to stay in Casablanca for longer than 90 days, a Long-Stay Visa needs to be applied for from a Moroccan consulate. This visa will require a valid passport, proof of income, a clear criminal record and evidence of health insurance. A business plan is completely optional but beneficial to have as well.

To apply for residency, applicants will need their Long-Stay Visa as well as proof of address, police clearance and the company’s registration details.

How To Start A Business In Casablanca

Here is a step-by-step guide with the necessary steps to follow when launching a startup in Casablanca. Working with a local advisor can also be beneficial to make sure all is in order.

Choose A Business Entity

For startups, there are two common types of legal structures.

SARL which is a Limited Liability Company: This is best suited to small and medium businesses.

SA which is a Joint Stock Company: Suited to bigger businesses or those who require investors.

Check Availability Of Business Name

You can search the availability of your desired name with the Moroccan Office of Industrial and Commercial Property. If it is available to use then you can go ahead and reserve it.

Gather Your Legal Documents

The next step is to prepare all of your legal documentation for registration. This will include your Articles of Association, passports of any shareholders and your proof of address.

Register The Business

Your company can then be registered with the Moroccan Office of Industrial and Commercial Property and with the tax authorities to get your tax ID.

Should You Launch A Startup In Casablanca?

Casablanca offers a gateway to North Africa and beyond for entrepreneurs who are looking to turn their business vision into a solid reality. The city is certainly welcoming of startups and as its infrastructure continues to develop, it has the potential to offer new ventures exponential growth.

For those with bold plans in technology, e-commerce and agriculture, Casablanca would be a top destination choice for your innovative ideas.

Good luck!