Moroccan Innovator Ali Essalhi Leads $24M Tech Success in Texas Insurance Industry

Ali Essalhi’s journey from Rabat to the heart of the U.S. tech and insurance industry is nothing short of extraordinary. Once a diligent student in Morocco’s capital, he never imagined that his passion for knowledge would eventually lead him to recognition by Forbes as one of the most promising young innovators under the age of 30.

At just 25, Essalhi co-created a groundbreaking algorithm that revolutionized car insurance through his startup Loop, based in Austin, Texas. The algorithm predicts accident risks by analyzing driving behavior and telematics data rather than relying on traditional—and often discriminatory—factors such as credit scores, annual income, or profession.

Thanks to Essalhi’s innovation, Loop secured more than $24 million in funding and positioned itself as a socially impactful company. By eliminating unfair rating models, the startup allows immigrants and minorities to access fairer, more affordable insurance. “With this algorithm, Loop is helping wide segments of society access equitable insurance premiums,” Essalhi proudly explained in an interview.

From Rabat to Ifrane and Beyond

Ali’s story is deeply rooted in Morocco. After excelling in Rabat, he pursued his undergraduate studies in computer science at Al Akhawayn University in Ifrane, graduating in 2017. His curiosity pushed him to broaden his horizons through a cultural exchange program in Tennessee, where he first experienced life in the U.S.

Instead of immediately entering the job market, Essalhi pursued further studies at the Robert H. Smith School of Business at the University of Maryland, earning a master’s degree in data analytics. It was during this time that he interned with Loop, where his machine-learning models impressed the company’s founders and eventually secured him a permanent role. Rising quickly through the ranks, he is now the company’s Chief Technology Officer.

Global Ambitions with Moroccan Roots

Although Loop has ambitious plans to expand its insurance model across five to ten U.S. states, Essalhi remains deeply connected to his homeland. His long-term dream is to replicate Loop’s success in Morocco, contributing to the country’s growing role as a financial and technological hub in Africa and the Mediterranean.

“Morocco is an economic and financial pole in Africa and the Mediterranean region,” Essalhi said with confidence. “My dream is to contribute to the dynamic development the Kingdom is experiencing on multiple levels.”

His journey embodies the essence of the American Dream—blended with Moroccan determination and global vision.