Egypt’s Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA), through its Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (TIEC), has launched a call for proposals to select an operator for its newest Creativa Innovation Hub in Damietta. This is a significant opportunity for experienced entities to manage and program a key center for innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.
Program Overview and Mission
The Creativa Innovation Hubs are a national initiative aimed at creating a supportive environment for digital entrepreneurship and technological creativity. The mission of the Damietta hub is to provide a collaborative space for students, entrepreneurs, and freelancers, fostering a local community that can contribute to Egypt’s digital economy. The selected operator will be responsible for the complete management of the hub for an initial three-year term.
What the Operator Will Receive (Hub Support)
ITIDA and TIEC provide substantial support to ensure the hub’s success. This includes:
- A fully equipped and furnished space within the Telecom Egypt building in Ras El Bar.
- Covered operational costs, including rent, utilities, internet, security, and cleaning services.
- An annual grant of up to EGP 3 million to support staff salaries and developmental services.
- Direct seed funding provided by ITIDA/TIEC to the startups selected for incubation at the hub.
Key Responsibilities and Services
The operator is required to deliver a range of non-profit and developmental services targeting students, entrepreneurs, and startups. Required annual KPIs include:
- Incubation/Acceleration: Support at least 4 startups per year.
- Entrepreneurship Workshops: Train at least 400 individuals per quarter.
- Freelancing Coaching: Coach at least 100 freelancers per quarter.
- Co-working Services: Maintain at least 70% occupancy per quarter.
- Events: Organize at least one hackathon and one awareness event per quarter.
Who Should Apply?
ITIDA is seeking proposals from qualified entities with a strong track record in the entrepreneurship ecosystem. Applicants can be:
- A legal entity or a qualified team committed to establishing one.
- An organization with proven experience managing incubators, accelerators, or co-working spaces.
- Consortiums that reflect diversity in management and specialization are highly encouraged to apply.
Key Dates and How to Apply
Application Deadline: The final deadline for submitting proposals is September 14, 2025.
Q&A Session: A pre-proposal Q&A session will be held online on August 31, 2025.
How to Apply: Interested parties must download the full Request for Proposal (RFP) from the TIEC website and submit their proposals via email to the contacts listed in the document.
About the Organizers
The Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA) is the executive arm of Egypt’s Ministry of Communication and Information Technology, championing the growth of a world-class IT industry. The Technology Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center (TIEC) is an integral part of ITIDA, dedicated to fostering innovation and driving the entrepreneurship ecosystem in Egypt’s ICT sector.
