stc Bahrain, in collaboration with inspireU from stc Group, has announced three Bahraini startups—Rizq, Siin, and Verrt—as the winners of the first-ever inspireU accelerator program held in Bahrain. This groundbreaking initiative aims to support and empower Bahrain’s entrepreneurial ecosystem, featuring eight innovative startups from diverse sectors such as tourism, fintech, e-commerce, and artificial intelligence.
The selected startups emerged victorious after a rigorous bootcamp at stc Bahrain headquarters. They will receive a comprehensive support package, including financial aid, logistical assistance, consulting services, and an intensive training program led by top Silicon Valley experts. This package is designed to enhance their business capabilities and provide them with valuable connections to affiliated companies, as well as opportunities to attend and participate in various events, including workshops and national and international exhibitions.
The two-day inspireU bootcamp kicked off with a training session led by mentor Alharith Alatawi, founder of Shaffra. The shortlisted startups then presented their business plans to a distinguished panel of judges, including H.E. Mrs. Maha Mofeez, CEO of Tamkeen; Yasser Al Ghamdi, a renowned Saudi investor; Abdulrahman Al Zuhair, General Manager of inspireU; and representatives from stc Bahrain. The judges evaluated participants based on their business plans, pitching capabilities, and other key criteria.
Eng. Khalid Al Osaimi, CEO of stc Bahrain, emphasized the importance of extending the inspireU program to Bahrain. “We are proud of all the Bahraini participants who showcased their innovative ideas. We congratulate the three winning startups, who will now receive mentorship from top entrepreneurs, along with financial support and consulting services. This support will empower them to thrive within the startup ecosystem and contribute to Bahrain’s unique digital economy.”
Launched in Saudi Arabia by stc Group in 2015, the inspireU accelerator program is now enhancing Bahrain’s entrepreneurial landscape. By nurturing innovative ideas into successful startups, inspireU plays a crucial role in job creation and advancing digital innovation in Bahrain, aligning with the national vision for economic growth. The program also supports stc Bahrain’s commitment to sustainability by strengthening the kingdom’s SME ecosystem.
