SUCCESS STORIES – The CE3M Cluster: A Pillar of Technological Innovation in Morocco

About the CE3M Cluster

Specialized in the fields of electronics, microelectronics, and mechatronics, CE3M is a key player in promoting innovation in Morocco. Initially established in 2008 as an Economic Interest Grouping (GIE) composed of 6 SMEs, the cluster now brings together over 80 diverse members (SMEs, higher education institutions, associations). Through collaborative projects, the cluster helps develop innovative solutions that meet the service and product needs of its members. Additionally, by fostering partnerships between industry, research, and education, CE3M offers young people the opportunity to participate in R&D initiatives related to these sectors.

• Interviewee: Mr. Nourdine BOUYAAKOUB
• Current Position: General Director
• Cluster Name: Electronics, Mechatronics and Mechanics Cluster of Morocco (CE3M)
• Website: https://ce3m.ma/index.php/fr/

The Euromed Clusters Forward Project

The Euromed Clusters Forward project has been a key catalyst in the development and structuring of many clusters around the Mediterranean, including the CE3M Cluster. Thanks to its active participation in nine major initiatives, CE3M has strengthened its capabilities, built strategic partnerships, and launched innovative projects. The project not only supported the emergence of new ecosystems but also accelerated the shift toward sustainable industries and spurred technological innovation, thereby helping shape the future of Mediterranean regions. Additionally, a tool initially named “MAPSTER” was updated and renamed “cluster MAP,” becoming a strategic instrument to reinforce networking and sustain collaborative efforts.

For Noureddine Bouyaakoub, Euromed Clusters Forward is a rich source of opportunities and partnerships. He highlights the importance of participating in project events, where a wealth of ideas is shared—emphasizing the essential role of networking and exchanges among different stakeholders.

1. Structuring New Ecosystems: The Emergence of Strategic Clusters

A Med Tech Forum Sparks the Creation of a Medical Cluster in Morocco

CE3M met Biovalley, a pan-European health cluster (Germany, France, Switzerland), at a Euromed Clusters Forward event. This encounter led to the organization of the first Med Tech Forum in Morocco in 2022—an essential event that helped create a medical cluster focused on innovation in healthcare.

Emerging Clusters Born from Cluster Synergies

Thanks to connections established through Euromed Clusters Forward, three emerging clusters have been launched in Morocco: the Medical Cluster, the Railway Cluster, and soon the Two-Wheel Mobility Cluster. These initiatives are the result of collaborations between Mediterranean and European clusters, demonstrating the structural impact of the project on the regional industrial landscape.

A Cluster for Electric Mobility in the Mediterranean

Following initial discussions through The Next Society and later through Euromed Clusters Forward events, the collaboration between the CARA cluster (France) and CE3M led to the creation of a cluster dedicated to two-wheel mobility (scooters, e-scooters, bikes). This cluster is advancing an innovative project focused on retrofitting two-wheel vehicles and repurposing batteries, thus promoting the circular economy. Backed by the Ministry of Industry, this pilot project aims for initial deployment in the Marrakech region.

2. Boosting Trade and Technology Exchanges

MEDEE Hub: A Franco-Moroccan Connection via Tech Days

After the ACHEMA Tech Days in Frankfurt, a business relationship began between MEDEE Hub (France) and Moroccan partners. This connection was further strengthened during a visit to Casablanca, organized in collaboration with the Moroccan Chamber of Commerce and Industry, paving the way for new technological collaborations.

3. Developing New Skills and Services in Moroccan Industry

Creation of an Industry 4.0 Service Within the Cluster

A new service dedicated to Industry 4.0 was established within CE3M, aimed at collectively supporting its members in adopting new technologies. Three pilot companies received specialized support, and a pool of expert consultants was trained to assist members—even beyond this pilot phase.

Thanks to this initiative, several consultants expanded their work internationally, with operations in Asia and Africa. Today, this service is also in demand by major companies such as Coca-Cola. Moreover, the experts trained in this pilot continue to offer their expertise beyond the cluster’s members, clearly demonstrating the impact of a public-interest initiative that helped structure a new ecosystem.

This pilot project also supported the spread of Industry 4.0 into new sectors such as aerospace and cosmetics/agri-food, enabling synergies with other clusters like MENARA and AMC.

4. Energy Synergies for a Decarbonized Industry

Capenergies & CE3M: An Annual Event Connecting Clusters and Investors

Since their meeting during the Cluster Tour in Marseille, Capenergies (France) and CE3M (Morocco) have established an annual matchmaking event. Organized via the B2MATCH platform and funded by the African Development Bank, this virtual event facilitates meetings between investors, funders, and innovative companies.

A Collaborative Project on SME Decarbonization in the Mediterranean

Simultaneously, a large-scale initiative is taking shape with Spanish clusters (CEEC, CREC), Tunisian clusters (Mechatronics Cluster Tunisia), and Egyptian clusters (ERECI). This project aims to support SMEs in their energy transition by pooling expertise and resources across the Mediterranean region.

Conclusion

These initiatives clearly demonstrate the tangible impact of the Euromed Clusters Forward project by enabling the creation of new sectors, supporting innovation, and promoting international collaboration.