Orange Digital Center: a key driver in Côte d’Ivoire
Published: January 21, 2025
The Orange Digital Center is a hub for digital support, offering a range of free programs for everyone, from training and mentorship to startup acceleration and investment. As an example, it serves as the digital home in Côte d’Ivoire, having trained over 3,500 individuals and supported 92 startups.
Programs at Orange Digital Center
The ODC provides strategic, free programs for individuals with varying levels of digital skills, allowing them to work on real projects:
Coding school
A tech center offering training in the latest technologies (Blockchain, virtual/augmented/mixed reality, robotics, artificial intelligence) and soft skills development. It also supports the creation of marketable solutions and hosts events for developers and entrepreneurs
FabLab solidaire
Digital fabrication workshop equipped with tools like 3D printers, milling machines, and laser cutters for prototyping.
Orange Fab
An incubator and accelerator that supports startups with technical and financial assistance, connecting them with experts and the global Orange Fab network
These programs extend regionally through Orange Digital Center Clubs (ODCC), which provide resources to underserved populations. The first ODCC was inaugurated in Bouaké at the Virtual University of Côte d’Ivoire.
Diverse Activities for Youth, Women, and Entrepreneurs
ODC implements various activities to enhance the entrepreneurial skills of graduates and non-graduates, support innovative startups, and reduce youth unemployment. These include:
- Advanced internships leading to technology and digital projects, and competitions on specific themes.
- Short- and medium-term training on diverse technical and non-technical topics for targeted groups.
- Specific programs for vulnerable groups, including training for women, youth in precarious situations, and people with disabilities.
- Technical and financial support for startups, along with networking opportunities.
A Center for Training, Innovation, and Digital Inclusion
The Orange Digital Center aims to help individuals develop their digital skills, assist youth in finding high-value jobs, and promote entrepreneurship. It seeks to democratize access to digital technologies in both rural and urban areas. By combining training, mentorship, and technical and financial support, ODC strives to bridge the digital divide, empower women, youth in precarious situations, and people with disabilities, while creating opportunities for local startups.
Partnerships to Amplify Impact
ODC collaborates closely with local and international institutions, including governments, NGOs, universities, and businesses. These partnerships allow for resource sharing, expertise exchange, and enhanced impact of initiatives.
By enabling more people to engage in the digital economy, ODC contributes to improving the living conditions of millions, fostering a more equitable and prosperous society where everyone can realize their potential through digital empowerment.