The Innovative Private Sector Development II Project (IPSD II) is inviting Palestinian tech startups and innovative SMEs to join a delegation to Web Summit Lisbon 2026. This opportunity provides structured market exposure, networking, and potential financial support to engage with the international tech ecosystem.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: Awareness & Networking Events
- For: Palestinian tech and tech-enabled startups and innovative SMEs registered in the West Bank
- Key Benefits: Exhibition space, market connections, and grant support for travel and event fees
- Application Deadline: 11 August 2026, 11:59 PM Palestine Time
- Location: Lisbon, Portugal
Awareness & Networking Events Overview
The Discover initiative, part of the NEXUS program under IPSD II, supports the participation of Palestinian technology startups in strategically selected international events like Web Summit Lisbon 2026, taking place from November 9–12, 2026. The program is designed to help selected firms explore regional and international markets, understand ecosystem dynamics, and build early-stage connections with investors and mentors. Rather than just event attendance, it combines structured exposure, preparation, coordinated participation, and networking opportunities to help firms translate their participation into follow-on commercial or investment opportunities.
Key Benefits
- Structured exhibition spaces to showcase products and services at a leading global technology conference.
- Pre-event onboarding and preparation support, including pitch refinement, market positioning, and the preparation of visibility materials.
- On-site coordination, networking support, and targeted introductions during the event.
- Potential grant support covering up to one hundred percent of eligible expenditures for up to two travelers per firm.
- Financial coverage includes round-trip economy class airfare, 4-star or higher hotel accommodation (single occupancy), visa fees, and travel insurance.
- Full coverage of event participation fees, as well as booth or pod space reservation and assembly fees.
Eligibility Criteria
- Must be a technology or technology-enabled company, legally registered with the Palestinian Ministry of National Economy (MoNE), with an active tax file with the Palestinian Ministry of Finance.
- Must be registered and operating in the West Bank.
- Must have been operational for a minimum of three (3) months prior to the submission of the application.
- The firm’s annual revenue for the previous year(s) must not exceed USD 5,000,000.
- Proposed funded activities must have moderate to low or no environmental impact in accordance with IPSD II Environmental and Social Management guidelines.
- Must possess a viable, scalable business model and a Minimal Viable Product (MVP) with initial validated customer traction or revenue.
- Must be a first-time participant in the event, or demonstrate a clear pivot in the business model if applying for re-participation.
How to Apply
Interested startups and innovative SMEs must apply to join the delegation before the deadline on 11 August 2026 at 11:59 PM Palestine Time. Applicants will be required to submit documentation including a pitch deck, Go-to-Market strategy, an updated video pitch, and proof of business registration. Apply directly via the form: https://fs20.formsite.com/DAIForms/Web-Summit-Lisbon/signup.
About Innovative Private Sector Development II Project (IPSD II)
Launched in February 2024, the Innovative Private Sector Development II Project (IPSD II) is an initiative for the benefit of the Palestinian Ministry of National Economy (MoNE), funded by the World Bank and the European Union, and implemented by DAI Global UK. With a total budget of US$ 24.5 million, IPSD II aims to improve economic opportunities for tech and tech-enabled startups, innovative SMEs, and individuals operating in the digital economy in the West Bank. The implementation partner for the NEXUS program is parachute16.
Learn More: IPSD II Information Document
