Last week, Tunisia made history at CES 2025, the world’s largest technology and innovation showcase, by hosting its own dedicated booth for the first time. This milestone, achieved under the banner of the Tunisian Innovation Hub, was not just a celebration of the country’s burgeoning startup ecosystem but also a bold statement about Tunisia’s potential to lead in global innovation.

Organized by the Tunisian American Young Professionals (TAYP) and supported by the Promise Exchange Program, CONECT, Smart Capital, and the Caisse des Dépôts et Consignations (CDC), this initiative brought together the best of Tunisia’s tech talent, international stakeholders, and members of the Tunisian diaspora to demonstrate how collaboration can drive innovation forward.

A Global Stage for Tunisian Startups

CES 2025, held in Las Vegas from January 7-10, provided a platform for seven Tunisian startups to showcase groundbreaking solutions across diverse sectors such as AgTech, Energy and Robotics.

The Tunisian Innovation Hub at CES was a lively, interactive space where visitors engaged with live demonstrations, discussed emerging trends, and explored the creative energy of Tunisia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

“It was inspiring to see Tunisia’s startups thrive on a global platform like CES,” said Anis Mnif, Vice President of TAYP, who was on-site to lead the effort. “Our team worked tirelessly to give these entrepreneurs the opportunity to connect with investors, industry leaders, and members of the Tunisian diaspora. The results exceeded our expectations and proved that Tunisia is ready to compete on the global stage.”

Anis’s efforts, along with the support of many other TAYPers who joined him in Las Vegas, ensured that the Tunisian pavilion was a standout at CES, attracting global attention and fostering meaningful connections.

Spotlight on Tunisia’s Startups

The startups featured at the Tunisian Innovation Hub represented the diverse and innovative spirit of Tunisia’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

1. AquaDeep (AgTech): Revolutionizing fish farming with AI and IoT-powered solutions to improve efficiency and sustainability.
2. DeepVolt (Energy): Simplifying the deployment of EV infrastructure with AI-based location intelligence tools.
3. OORB (Robotics): Offering an open-source robotics development framework powered by AI to advance automation.
4. SPIRAW (Food Tech): Making sustainable spirulina cultivation accessible with biotechnology and IoT-enabled devices.
5. Smart for Green (AgTech): Protecting forests and farms with predictive AI-driven fire prevention systems.
6. Wayout (Smart Cities): Combatting marine pollution and floods with innovative filtration technologies.
7. WeMake3D (3D Printing): Accelerating the adoption of 3D printing in education and industry with locally manufactured printers.

Building Bridges at CES

The Tunisian booth wasn’t just about showcasing technology—it was also about fostering connections. Several high-profile guests visited the pavilion, including Hanène Tajouri Bessassi, Tunisian Ambassador to the United States, and representatives from CONECT, Smart Capital, CDC, and the French delegation from CPME.

The event also featured the engaging panel discussion, “Innovate Together – Building Bridges Worldwide,” which brought together leaders and innovators to discuss the importance of collaboration in advancing technology and entrepreneurship.

“Through initiatives like the Promise Exchange Program, we are fostering economic growth and creating bridges that empower Tunisian talent to thrive on the global stage,” said Mohamed Malouche, Chairman of TAYP. “This historic presence at CES 2025 demonstrated Tunisia’s capacity to compete and excel in the global tech landscape. It was a major milestone for our entrepreneurial ecosystem.”

The Role of the Diaspora

One of the unique aspects of the Tunisian presence at CES 2025 was the role of the Tunisian diaspora in supporting and amplifying the initiative. The Tunisian Innovation Hub brought together Tunisian Americans, leading Tunisians from the European diaspora, and entrepreneurs based in Tunisia.

“We were thrilled to participate in CES 2025, an event where many high-caliber Tunisian Americans and leading Tunisians from the European diaspora showcased their companies,” said Zied Mhirsi, President of TAYP. “This unique platform allowed us to connect them with Tunisian entrepreneurs and tech companies based in Tunisia, fostering meaningful partnerships and sparking innovation.”

This blend of local talent and global networks created an environment rich in opportunity and collaboration, enabling Tunisia’s startups to gain valuable insights and access to international markets.

Why CES 2025 Was a Turning Point

For Tunisia, CES 2025 was more than just an opportunity to showcase its talent—it was a declaration of its readiness to lead in global innovation. The presence of the Tunisian Innovation Hub highlighted the country’s potential to attract investment, foster collaboration, and build a sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem.

What’s Next for Tunisian Innovation?

As the startups return home, they carry with them the lessons, connections, and inspiration gained from CES 2025. These entrepreneurs are now better equipped to scale their businesses, enter international markets, and continue driving innovation in Tunisia.

At TAYP, the work doesn’t stop here. The Promise Exchange Program, alongside partners like CONECT, CDC, and Smart Capital, will continue to support Tunisian startups through mentorship, investment readiness programs, and global networking opportunities.

Join the Movement

CES 2025 marked the beginning of a new chapter for Tunisian innovation. To stay updated on upcoming initiatives, learn more about our startups, and find out how you can get involved, visit www.tunisianinnovationhub.com.

Let’s build the future together!