This initiative, which falls within the framework of the third edition of the INNOV INVEST (FII) fund, under the "Tamwilcom" umbrella, aims to strengthen the dynamics of the regional entrepreneurship ecosystem by encouraging the innovation of digital and technological solutions tailored to local challenges.
This hackathon, which continues until December 29, involves teams of startups, project holders, researchers, companies, and public actors collaborating to transform innovative ideas into concrete solutions, thereby contributing to enhancing the attractiveness of the regions, particularly by valuing their cultural heritage and local resources. The main objective is to stimulate investment and create a positive impact on regional development.
In a speech during a seminar on the theme "The Smart Region: From Concept to Action," organized on the occasion of the hackathon's launch, political analyst and economist Badr Zahir Al-Azraq emphasized the importance of highlighting the historic cities of the Fez-Meknes region, such as Fez, Meknes, Taza, and Sefrou, through targeted promotional campaigns, noting the importance of modern communication techniques as a mechanism to enhance this attractiveness.
Mr. Al-Azraq added that the region, which is at a pivotal stage in its history, must focus on territorial intelligence, strengthen its economic identity, and exploit the opportunities offered by major sporting events to become a model for sustainable and inclusive development.
He also called on various actors in the region (decision-makers, academics, and economic actors) to collaborate to make Fez-Meknes a prosperous region by leveraging its assets.
For his part, international expert in strategy, sustainability, and innovation, Mohamed Kettani, highlighted the need for major regions to find new criteria for differentiation to enhance their economic attractiveness and international reach in a context characterized by intense competition.
Mr. Kettani explained that building a "smart region" requires strengthening the capacities of regional decision-makers, economic actors, research circles, and citizens to work together to establish an inclusive model.
He also stressed the importance of innovating smart services for the public good, which requires effective management and, consequently, decentralization that provides regions with mechanisms aligned with current challenges and crises.
According to Mr. Kettani, a "smart region" is one that builds its growth strategy according to the needs expressed by its inhabitants and offers everyone the opportunity to thrive.
He noted that the progress made by some regions of the world proves that a change in political practices can have a positive impact.
In a statement to the Maghreb Arabe Presse (MAP), the Vice President of the Private University of Fez, Mohamed Ouazzani Jamil, explained that the hackathon is part of strengthening the dynamics of the ecosystem and regional innovation.
He added that the competitions will focus on topics related to the region, particularly smart tourism, smart construction, handicrafts, cultural heritage, and gastronomy.
He stressed the importance of these initiatives in preparing the region to host major sporting and cultural events in the near future.
Mr. Ouazzani indicated that the startups emerging from this event will receive funding thanks to the "Tamwilcom" program and will be supported within the framework of "INCUBOOSTER," with the backing of the Private University of Fez's incubator "COOP 789," which has already achieved great success.
He explained that the ultimate goal is to enable the Private University of Fez to fully play its role as an entrepreneurial university and a key player in the economic and social development of the region.
The first day of the "Smart Region" hackathon was also marked by an awards ceremony honoring public and private figures who contributed, through their initiatives and commitment, to the development of the region during 2024.
