Startup programs supported by Bahrain’s Labour Fund, Tamkeen, have involved more than 132 startups across 28 editions of Startup Bahrain since 2023, with six companies securing investment from Bahrain Mumtalakat Holding Company.
The figures were highlighted in an overview of Tamkeen’s collaboration with the University of Bahrain, Startup Bahrain, the SME Development Board and Mumtalakat. The programs connect student entrepreneurship, training, startup showcases and investment evaluation.
Across three editions of the Best Startup of the Year competition, launched in 2024, 40 projects from previous Startup Bahrain rounds were assessed. The six companies selected for investment were Early Riser and Lumofy in the first edition, Parcel and Procural in the second, and Doo and Tanami in the third.
The university edition attracted more than 1,000 students and over 160 teams. Of those, 91 projects reached the semi-finals and 10 teams advanced to the final stage.
Starting in 2027, participation in the competition will become a graduation requirement for students at the University of Bahrain’s College of Business, according to the announcement.
Tamkeen also provides training, mentoring and financial grants to winners of Startup Bahrain rounds, while the monthly events give founders opportunities to present their businesses to investors and experts.
Source: Al Bilad Press
