As part of Algeria’s vision to build a university that generates knowledge, wealth, and startups, the Ministry of Higher Education and Scientific Research announces the opening of applications for the second edition of the national challenge:
ProtoMarket II – 2026
This program is a national platform designed to support student projects and research outcomes, transforming them from ideas and prototypes into industrializable and market-ready products, thereby strengthening the transfer of innovation from university to market.
This edition focuses on raising prototype maturity to at least TRL 4, as well as developing a Business Model Canvas, helping project holders test the feasibility of their ideas and prepare for startup creation.
Funding Levels The second edition offers three funding categories depending on the nature and needs of the project:
🔹 Level 1: 1,000,000 DZD For web platforms and simple digital applications.
🔹 Level 2: 1,500,000 DZD For projects in artificial intelligence, Internet of Things, agri-food industries, and biotechnology.
🔹 Level 3: 2,000,000 DZD For robotics, complex hardware, process engineering, and medical projects.
Eligibility Criteria Projects must:
▪️ Have a functional and scalable prototype.
▪️ Reach at least Technology Readiness Level TRL 4.
▪️ Present a clear Business Model Canvas.
▪️ Provide a video or presentation explaining the project and prototype.
▪️ Commit to continuing development and creating a startup.
▪️ Read the participation guide and charter and agree to the program commitments.
Application Deadline: August 16, 2026 Official registration platform: https://mesrs-hackat.online
Participation guide: https://mesrs-hackat.online/guide
Note :This announcement is intended for students registered under Decision 1275 at the University of Saïda (academic years from 2022 to 2026), as well as any independent project registered at the incubator or any University of Saïda student holding the “Innovative Project” label.
Important Information Before Applying If selected and funded:
🔸 Funding is not transferred directly to the project holder; the university manages procurement and payments according to the approved budget.
🔸 Purchased equipment remains the property of the university, with usage rights granted to the project holder during incubation.
🔸 Regular attendance at the incubator is mandatory; unjustified prolonged absence may lead to suspension of funding.
🔸 Funding cannot be used for personal purposes or for expenses exceeding the approved budget.
🔸 Full outsourcing of the project is not allowed; the project holder and team must remain the main developers.
🔸 The project holder must commit to establishing a company and obtaining the “Innovative Project” and “Startup” labels.
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