The Innovative Private Sector Development II (IPSD II) project has officially launched the first cohort of its IGNITE Investment Readiness Program, selecting ten high-potential Palestinian startups and SMEs. Supported by the World Bank and the European Union, the program is designed to strengthen the governance and growth strategies of tech-enabled ventures, preparing them for international fundraising and market expansion despite the challenging regional context.
A Strategic Bridge To Global Capital
IGNITE serves as a critical intervention for the Palestinian tech ecosystem, focusing on bridging the gap between early-stage development and professional investment. Over the coming months, the selected founders will undergo a rigorous curriculum that includes specialized training modules, one-on-one expert coaching, and mock pitching sessions. The program culminates in a final Demo Day, where participants will present their ventures to a network of regional and international investors.
The initiative is implemented by DAI on behalf of the Palestinian Ministry of National Economy. By focusing on “investment readiness,” IPSD II aims to ensure that local startups can meet the due diligence requirements of global VCs, thereby increasing the flow of foreign direct investment into the West Bank’s digital economy.
Meet The IGNITE Cohort 1 Startups
The inaugural cohort features a diverse mix of startups, half of which are graduates of the Flow Accelerator and Orange Corners Palestinian Territories programs. The selected companies include:
- Carevision: An innovative healthcare-focused venture.
- Foras.ps: A platform dedicated to enhancing professional opportunities.
- Churn Solution: A tech provider focused on customer retention and data analytics.
- MELO BOOKING: A digital solution streamlining booking and reservation management.
- ToGo: A transport or delivery-tech startup focused on mobility.
- Other Participants: The cohort is completed by Damodi, Plusfinity, PlinkPlay, Tahalil Health, and 3Afer efino.
Strengthening The Digital Economy Under IPSD II
The IGNITE program is a core component of the broader $24.5 million IPSD II project. Beyond investment readiness, the project is tasked with improving economic opportunities for individuals within the digital economy and innovative SMEs. IPSD II also maintains a flexible framework to respond effectively to eligible crises and emergencies, ensuring that the Palestinian entrepreneurial fabric remains resilient during periods of volatility.
About IPSD II
The Innovative Private Sector Development II (IPSD II) Project is a multi-million dollar initiative funded by the World Bank and the European Union for the benefit of the Palestinian Ministry of National Economy. Implemented by DAI, the project focuses on fostering a vibrant ecosystem for tech-enabled startups and SMEs in the West Bank. Through grants, technical assistance, and programs like IGNITE, IPSD II works to remove barriers to market entry and facilitate the growth of a sustainable Palestinian private sector.
Source: IPSD II via LinkedIn
