At Turbine, we are proud to count the Mauritius Commercial Bank (MCB) as the main sponsor of this year’s Innovation Challenge. Their commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship is fully aligned with our mission: to empower Mauritian start-ups and build a sustainable, forward-looking ecosystem.

MCB’s support goes far beyond a traditional banking partnership. By standing alongside Turbine in this initiative, they reaffirm their belief that start-ups and entrepreneurs are key drivers of Mauritius’ economic, social, and environmental transformation. Together, we are working to encourage innovative solutions that can address some of the country’s most pressing challenges, while strengthening the resilience and competitiveness of the local economy.

This collaboration also reflects MCB’s wider innovation strategy, which is not limited to financial products but extends to practical initiatives that directly support entrepreneurs. Among these is PUNCH, a programme designed to build the skills of local entrepreneurs and give them access to resources and opportunities. For the start-ups participating in our Innovation Challenge, PUNCH offers a valuable bridge to mentorship, visibility, and growth. MCB also contributes through financing initiatives such as Lokal is Beautiful, aimed at helping SMEs transform their operations with lasting, positive impact.

As part of the Innovation Challenge, the focus is placed on strategic themes with high potential for impact, including:

• Developing the green and blue economy (energy transition, climate adaptation, circular economy, etc.);
• Smart agriculture to strengthen food security;
• Technology-driven solutions for societal challenges (inclusivity, accessibility, digital education, etc.);
• Enhancing local and regional value chains.

We strongly believe that large corporates have a vital role to play in supporting start-ups. With MCB’s involvement, our participants gain more than financial backing—they benefit from access to expertise, infrastructure, and networks that help them structure their growth and professionalise their ventures.

At Turbine, we see MCB’s partnership as both a responsibility and an opportunity: a responsibility to nurture bold and responsible entrepreneurship, and an opportunity to accelerate Mauritius’ innovation ecosystem. This is also a meaningful way to live out MCB’s purpose, Success Beyond Numbers, and Turbine’s vision to drive collective progress through action.

Spotlight on PUNCH

During the programme, the MCB also presented PUNCH, their platform designed to benefit and empower entrepreneurs. PUNCH connects start-ups with tailored resources, insights, and opportunities to help them scale effectively. For participants of the Innovation Challenge, this platform offers a valuable gateway to knowledge-sharing, mentorship, and visibility—further enabling them to strengthen their ventures and make meaningful contributions to the local economy.

The Innovation Challenge has always been about more than a competition. It is a platform that empowers start-ups, encourages collaboration, and builds bridges across sectors and even across the Indian Ocean region. Thanks to the support of partners like MCB, we are able to strengthen this mission and create lasting impact.

👉 Want to learn more about Turbine’s Innovation Challenge and how we support entrepreneurs? Visit www.turbine.mu or contact our team directly.