MOBILISE bootcamp 2025: Supporting young agri-entrepreneurs in Tunisia

The MOBILISE Bootcamp 2025 in Tunisia brought together 14 students for an intensive five-day training designed to equip them with essential entrepreneurial skills in climate-smart agriculture. Hosted by the Mediterranean School of Business (SMU) in collaboration with Maastricht School of Management (MSM) and local partners ISACM and AVFA, the bootcamp served as a key step in the MOBILISE Return Program. Students engaged in hands-on workshops, interactive discussions, and expert-led sessions aimed at fostering innovation, leadership, and business development. 

The program, which ran from January 14 to 18, 2025, featured a structured curriculum focusing on business model development, market alignment, prototyping, and leadership. Students participated in activities such as the Marshmallow Challenge, explored product-market fit, and refined their public speaking skills. Sessions on investment strategies and branding prepared them to transition their ideas into viable business ventures. Industry guest speakers provided insights into the challenges and opportunities of agricultural entrepreneurship, reinforcing the practical aspects of the training. 

Participants highlighted the interactive nature of the bootcamp, particularly appreciating the opportunity to refine their ideas through real-world application and peer collaboration. The training concluded with team presentations, where students pitched their business concepts to an expert panel. Moving forward, they will continue to receive mentorship and networking support through ISACM and AVFA career centers, with MOBILISE facilitating connections to the private sector. The success of this initiative underscores MOBILISE’s commitment to developing future agri-entrepreneurs, empowering students to drive innovation and sustainability in their communities.