Newsroom > Blog
Browse more
Renew Capital has a presence in 14 African countries. We aim to provide insight into Africa's startup scene, along with the opportunities and challenges it presents through a series of blogs from our in-country team. If you share our passion for developing entrepreneurship in Africa, we invite you to check out our open roles.
Q&A with Renew Capital's investment ecosystem manager in Morocco.
Renew Capital is expanding its presence in Morocco and to showcase this remarkable country, we present an insightful Q&A with Nihal Grii, Renew Capital’s investment ecosystem development manager in Morocco. In this Q&A Nihal shares insights on Africa’s growing startup ecosystem, Morocco’s diverse culture, innovation and advances in sustainability.
You have extensive experience in startup development. What initially drew you to work with startups?
It's fascinating to see how startups can thrive and drive a nation's economy. What initially drew me to work with startups was their potential for innovation and impact. Startups can be an engine of job creation, technological advancement and economic diversification. They bring fresh ideas to life and solve real-world problems, often leading to significant improvements in quality of life. Seeing how a single startup can create jobs, attract investment and inspire an entire community is incredibly motivating. It's this dynamic environment and the chance to contribute to meaningful change that hooked me from the start.
What excites you most about Morocco's and Africa’s innovation and startup ecosystem?
What excites me most is the ambition and determination of Africans. There is a powerful drive to overcome challenges and find technological, scalable and impactful solutions to the many problems we face. It's inspiring to see members of the Moroccan diaspora returning with the expertise and resources to help grow the country and the continent. These individuals are true fighters, bringing energy and innovation that fuels the vibrant startup sector. The dynamism and potential of this ecosystem are truly exhilarating.
What is one thing you wish more people knew about Morocco, its culture and its opportunities?
I wish more people knew about the incredible blend of cultures that make up Morocco—Arab, Berber, Andalusi, Mediterranean, Hebraic and African influences all coexist here. It's a unique cultural tapestry that enriches daily life. Additionally, Morocco's strategic location, especially in Tangier, where you can see Spain across the Strait of Gibraltar, offers unique opportunities for trade and cultural exchange. Moreover, Morocco is making remarkable strides in clean and sustainable energy, particularly in water management. With plans to increase desalinated water production tenfold by 2030, and the integration of solar energy reducing production costs dramatically, Morocco is turning its natural challenges into strategic advantages.
Morocco is a wonderful place to live! We have thriving expatriate communities in cities like Casablanca, Rabat, Tangier and Marrakech. After-work events are frequent, offering great opportunities for socializing and networking. The blend of modern amenities and rich traditions makes life here both comfortable and enriching.
Could you provide a brief overview of your role at Renew Capital and what you find most exciting?
As Renew Capital’s investment and ecosystem development manager in Morocco, my role is multifaceted, involving project management, stakeholder engagement and investment sourcing and management. I support the execution of private-sector development projects, ensuring we achieve results and meet all project milestones. I also help develop and facilitate our core gender-smart programs by training and coaching SMEs. I also help build relationships with startups, SMEs, development organizations, government agencies and private sector partners. Part of my role also revolves around sourcing potential companies for our investment pipeline, processing new leads and performing due diligence.
The most exciting aspect of my work is developing a robust investment pipeline in African countries. Recognizing that many African nations lack sufficient investment-ready startups, we strive to develop this pipeline not just for ourselves but for other investors as well.
What advice would you offer to someone looking to enter the startup scene in Morocco?
My advice for anyone starting in the Moroccan startup scene is to manage your reputation carefully. Be authentic and trustworthy—investors talk about their experiences, and a single bad experience can affect your future funding opportunities. Secondly, be realistic about your valuations. High valuations can deter potential investors, so use appropriate techniques to assess your true value and raise only what you need to scale. Finally, share feedback and collaborate with other entrepreneurs. Success breeds success, and a strong community can enhance the reputation of the country, attracting more foreign investors. By supporting each other, we can create a thriving startup ecosystem in Morocco.
Renew Capital is an Africa-focused impact investment firm that backs innovative companies with high-growth potential. Renew Capital manages investments made on behalf of the Renew Capital Angels, a global network of angel investors, foundations and family offices who seek financial returns and sustainable social impact. For the latest on investing in Africa, subscribe and follow us at our social links below.
Related Posts
