Innovation Celebrated in Marrakesh as UN Tourism Backs Next Generation of Startups

At the International Conference on Technological Innovation and Tourism Investments in Marrakesh (April 30, 2026), UN Tourism placed innovation and investment at the heart of its agenda, showcasing how startups can reshape the sector.

National Start-up Competition Winners
- Beyond the Map (Overall Winner): Combines augmented reality, AI agents, and text-to-speech to deliver immersive experiences of historical landmarks and cultural heritage.
- Mossika (Gaming for Leisure): Offers online music education, connecting learners with musicians and their cultures in a deeply human way.
- Medina Mirage (Moroccan Gastronomy): Uses technology to create immersive dining experiences, blending food with cultural storytelling.

Support & Mentorship
- Finalists received masterclasses and one-to-one mentoring from Bridge for Billions.
- Ongoing support will come from Les Roches and Spark, plus access to the UN Tourism Innovation Network for global expertise and scaling opportunities.

Focus on Rural Tourism
UN Tourism also launched the Morocco National Startup Competition: Rural & Community Tourism Innovation Challenge, aimed at fostering startups that promote sustainable, community-based tourism and empower local economies.

This event highlights how Morocco is positioning itself as a hub for tourism innovation, while UN Tourism is ensuring that startups not only thrive but also contribute to inclusivity, sustainability, and cultural preservation.