Moroccan technology startup Woliz has closed a $2.2 million pre-seed funding round led by Sanlam Maroc, aimed at accelerating the digital transformation of the retail sector in Morocco and across Africa. The investment will support the development of Woliz’s AI-powered platform designed to modernise small retailers, particularly neighbourhood shops and grocery stores.
The funding will be used to strengthen Woliz’s technological and organisational infrastructure, enabling the rollout of connected point-of-sale systems and software that integrate inventory management, digital payments, and data-driven operations. The platform is built to link proximity retailers with distributors, manufacturers, financial institutions, telecom operators, public entities, and end consumers within a unified digital ecosystem.
Woliz’s model combines artificial intelligence, automation, and data analytics to improve operational efficiency, enhance financial inclusion, and formalise retail transactions. The company plans to use the capital to expand its footprint across multiple regions in Morocco, while laying the groundwork for broader expansion into African markets.
Yahya Charaibi, General Manager of Sanlam Maroc, said the investment reflects Sanlam’s commitment to supporting Moroccan technology platforms that deliver tangible impact for small retailers. He added that the partnership aims to modernise the retail sector, strengthen financial inclusion, and stimulate local innovation, with an eye on scaling the model across Africa.
Kamal Lhardozi, Founder and CEO of Woliz, said the partnership enables the deployment of sustainable, field-ready technology that bridges digital innovation with real-world retail needs. He noted that Woliz is building a scalable model from Morocco that can be replicated in other African markets.
