Organized by Cluster Valbiom Morocco, in partnership with the Office of Vocational Training and Labor Promotion (OFPPT), the CMC and the Oriental Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Services, this competition is part as part of the contribution to encouraging and supporting emerging businesses and innovative value-added projects.
Thus, the first prize was won by El Kettani Badreddine from the city of Rabat, for his “Safe touch innovation” project, which concerns two automatic disinfection products: the first dedicated to door handles and the second intended for escalators and treadmills, ensuring their cleanliness and disinfection continuously and automatically.
The second prize went to Saâd Eddine El Alami (Oujda) for his “Safety Driving” project, which is a warning system against road accidents that reacts at the appropriate time, guaranteeing safe driving.
The third prize went to candidate Oumaima Lhaïd (Casablanca) for her project “EDELSTER”. This is a machine that sorts textile scraps by separating cardboard, fabric and plastic.
Placed under the sign “Innovation at the service of national industry”, this event aims, according to the organizers, to promote innovation as a fundamental lever at the service of productive economic sectors.
In a statement to MAP, the president of the “Cluster Valbium Maroc” association, Mohamed Melhaoui, indicated that this annual meeting aims to support startups and innovative projects with added value by stimulating creativity, through the encouragement of Moroccan youth and the transformation of their innovations into concrete industrial projects, in addition to the promotion of innovation in the service of productive economic sectors and the encouragement of investments in the Oriental region.
This competition provides a dynamic and important platform for creative entrepreneurs to showcase their bold projects, attract investors and build relationships with various players and stakeholders in the entrepreneurship ecosystem, a- he added, noting that the focus on the green economy is part of efforts to find innovative solutions that respond to pressing environmental challenges and promote sustainable economic growth.
For his part, the winner of the first prize of the “Innov Days 5” competition expressed his pride in this achievement, stressing that this event, in addition to its contribution to stimulating creativity and innovation, is an opportunity to exchange ideas and knowledge with the rest of the participants, discover successful experiences and seek support and funding for participating projects.
This ceremony was also marked by the awarding of prizes to the three winners of the 2nd edition of the “Gold Patent” competition, an initiative which aims to encourage project leaders to protect their innovations by filing patents, and to the 25 winners of the third edition of the “INNOV INDUS” competition, which aims to support Moroccan startups in the promotion of their inventions and to promote the transformation of ideas into concrete industrial projects.
Time.news Interview with Mohamed Melhaoui, President of Cluster Valbiom Morocco: Supporting Innovation in Emerging Businesses
Editor: Welcome, Mr. Melhaoui! It’s a pleasure to have you with us today. Let’s dive right in. Could you share with our readers the main purpose of the recent competition organized by Cluster Valbiom Morocco in collaboration with OFPPT and other partners?
Mohamed Melhaoui: Thank you for having me! The recent competition was aimed at fostering innovation and supporting emerging businesses in Morocco. We believe that by encouraging startups and promoting innovative value-added projects, we can enhance our national industry and stimulate economic growth. It’s important for us to create an environment where Moroccan youth can express their creativity and bring their ideas to life.
Editor: That’s fantastic! It sounds like a remarkable initiative. I understand that the competition featured several impressive projects. Could you highlight some of the standout innovations?
Mohamed Melhaoui: Absolutely! This year, we had an incredible pool of innovative ideas. The first prize went to Badreddine El Kettani from Rabat for his “Safe Touch Innovation,” which includes two automatic disinfection products for door handles and escalators. This project is particularly relevant in today’s health-conscious environment.
The second prize was awarded to Saâd Eddine El Alami from Oujda for his “Safety Driving” project, which is a warning system designed to prevent road accidents. It’s an essential innovation given the rising concerns around road safety.
Lastly, the third prize went to Oumaima Lhaïd from Casablanca for her project “EDELSTER,” a machine that sorts textile scraps efficiently, separating cardboard, fabric, and plastic. This not only addresses waste management but also promotes recycling in the textile industry.
Editor: Those are incredible advancements! It certainly seems like innovation is thriving among Moroccan youth. How important do you think these types of projects are for the future of national industry?
Mohamed Melhaoui: They are crucial! As we aimed for with our theme, “Innovation at the service of national industry,” these projects embody the potential of Moroccan youth to contribute significantly to various economic sectors. By streamlining processes, improving safety, and fostering sustainability, these innovations can help our industries adapt to global challenges and enhance competitiveness.
Editor: Speaking of sustainability, it seems like some of these projects, particularly EDELSTER, have a focus on environmental issues. How do you see the relationship between innovation and sustainability in the context of Moroccan entrepreneurship?
Mohamed Melhaoui: The relationship is extremely synergistic. Many of our young entrepreneurs are increasingly aware of environmental challenges and are looking for ways to address them through their innovations. Sustainable practices not only help protect our environment but can also lead to cost savings and new market opportunities. By incorporating sustainability into their business models, they can create responsible products that appeal to a growing segment of eco-conscious consumers.
Editor: That’s a very forward-thinking perspective, Mr. Melhaoui. Can you tell us about the role of mentor programs or support structures that your organization offers to these emerging businesses?
Mohamed Melhaoui: Certainly! We provide various support mechanisms, including mentorship programs, training workshops, and networking opportunities. We believe that guidance from experienced professionals is vital for these young entrepreneurs. By connecting them with industry veterans and providing access to resources, we help them navigate the challenges of starting and scaling their ventures.
Editor: It sounds like a holistic approach to nurturing talent. Looking ahead, what are your aspirations for future competitions and the overall innovation ecosystem in Morocco?
Mohamed Melhaoui: Our aspiration is to see this annual competition grow and gain recognition not only within Morocco but also on an international scale. We want to inspire more young people to innovate and contribute to the economy. Furthermore, we’re working on creating more partnerships with academic institutions and private sectors to strengthen the innovation ecosystem. Together, we can foster a culture of creativity and entrepreneurship that drives Morocco forward.
Editor: Thank you so much for your insights, Mr. Melhaoui. Your work to promote innovation among Moroccan youth is truly inspiring, and we look forward to seeing the continued growth of these exciting projects in the coming years.
Mohamed Melhaoui: Thank you! It was a pleasure to share our vision, and I appreciate your interest in promoting innovation in Morocco.