The Labour Fund (Tamkeen), in partnership with Salica Investments (previously known as Hambro Perks), concluded a successful demo day event for the Riyada Business Accelerator programme in the presence of representatives and leaders from both the private and public sectors as well as international investors. During the event, the participating founders delivered compelling pitches, showcasing the progress of their startups through the programme and highlighting the future potential to take them to the next level.
On this occasion, Maha Abdulhameed Mofeez, chief executive of Tamkeen, commended the innovative Bahraini entrepreneurs who showcased their tech startups during the event. She highlighted the importance of providing a platform such as this for startups to receive awareness and recognition that can accelerate their growth. She also emphasised the importance of championing entrepreneurship in Bahrain through various programmes and initiatives aimed at helping startups innovate and find success, therefore creating a positive impact on the Kingdom’s economy.
She added, “Supporting Bahraini entrepreneurs in utilising advanced technologies and launching innovative solutions can foster tech adoption in the local market, therefore boosting productivity and enhancing the role of the private sector as a key engine of economic growth, which aligns perfectly with our objectives.”
The Riyada Business Accelerator programme contributed to creating 30 job opportunities through its first cohort of six participating startups, including founders, full-time employees and fractional resources. The participants successfully raised over USD 225,000 in funding through investments, grants, and competitions as a result of the mentorship and guidance they received throughout the programme which focuses on four key pillars: product development, fundraising, team development and business development.
The success of this demo day is a testament to the programme’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs and supporting the startup ecosystem in Bahrain. The programme will continue to focus on supporting tech startups by providing specialised guidance, essential resources, and opportunities to expand their professional networks.
The initiative aligns with Tamkeen's strategic priorities for 2025, which focus on enhancing the position and competitiveness of Bahrainis in the private sector, equipping Bahrainis with suitable skills for career development in the private sector, and prioritising enterprise growth, digitisation, and sustainability, and supporting the development of the ecosystem surrounding the labour market and private sector.