The MENACatalyst Foundation has announced the launch of the Impact Founders Challenge, a pitch competition designed specifically for bold, early-stage Palestinian startups tackling critical social, environmental, or economic problems. The initiative aims to empower local self-starters and founders whose ventures are rooted in creating meaningful community-driven change.
Competition Overview and Rewards
Selected founders will have the opportunity to pitch their ventures live before a panel of industry experts, judges, and potential investors.
- Grand Prize: One standout venture will be awarded a $10,000 cash prize to support their growth.
- Strategic Support: Beyond funding, MENACatalyst provides a holistic support system including mentorship, technical expertise, and strategic guidance to help founders transform ideas into tangible community outcomes.
Eligibility and Selection Criteria
The challenge is tailored for startups that have moved past the initial concept and are focused on validation and development.
- Venture Stage: Very early-stage startups with a validated idea and a prototype or Minimum Viable Product (MVP) in development.
- Core Sectors: Applications are open to startups in AgriTech, HealthTech, FinTech, EduTech, and other sectors addressing community-driven or sustainability challenges.
- Location: All participating ventures must be based in Palestine.
- Team & Presence: Founders must demonstrate committed, relevant skills and maintain an active digital presence through a website or social media channels.
- Diversity Focus: The foundation strongly encourages applications from women-led and women-founded ventures to bridge the gender gap in the regional entrepreneurial surge.
About MENACatalyst Foundation
Founded in 2016, MENACatalyst (MC) is an impact-driven nonprofit dedicated to fostering economic growth and social impact across the MENA region.
- Mission: The organization focuses on creating conditions for marginalized communities to emerge as leaders of positive change.
- Strategic Focus: MENACatalyst manages several large-scale programs, including Green Growth Palestine (in collaboration with GIZ) and the Palestine Youth Digital Innovators Program.
- Global Network: MC leverages a global network of the Palestinian diaspora to drive local investment, mentorship, and professional connections for startups.
Source: Impact Founders Challenge
