Promotion of entrepreneurship with a focus on micro, small and start-up enterprises

Context

Micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) make up 98 per cent of all private businesses in Morocco. Despite the government's efforts to improve conditions, MSMEs continue to confront regulatory and administrative challenges. These are holding back their economic potential.

Companies are often created more out of necessity than a genuine entrepreneurial spirit. They often lack a strong corporate culture, face underfunding, and make limited use of digital technologies.

The transformation of MSMEs and start-ups, especially those run by women, is crucial for Morocco’s development. The business environment must therefore improve. Companies need access to tailored financial and non-financial services, as well as synergies of public-private support. They also need to be able to use more digital technologies.

Objective

The regulatory and administrative conditions, and the funding options available for MSMEs, the self-employed and start-ups have been optimised, enabling businesses to enjoy long-term growth and generate positive impacts on employment.

Approach

The project operates in three fields of activity:

1. Improving the conditions for MSMEs, the self-employed and start-ups
   The project is supporting the implementation of the ‘Business Ready’ approach, the National Roadmap for Business Climate Improvement, and the National Strategy for Financial Inclusion.
2. Expanding financial and non-financial services
   The project is assisting the ANA MOUKAWIL programme in its aim to have accompanied 100,000 entrepreneurs by 2026. It is also improving access to financial services for MSMEs and the economic autonomy of women in rural and peri-urban areas.
3. Etablishing regional structures to support MSMEs and start-ups
   The project is improving the coordination of business services offerings in two pilot regions. It is also developing regional needs-based business services for MSMEs, the self-employed and start-ups, and supporting their implementation.

Last update: December 2023