Lebanon’s Social Enterprises Secure Funding Boost Through Nabad Program

In a significant development for the Lebanese social entrepreneurship ecosystem, makesense MENA has announced that ten diverse projects have successfully secured grant funding of up to $20,000 each. The funding, provided by the Drosos Foundation, was awarded following a comprehensive pitch event concluding the latest phase of the Nabad program. Held at Fabrika in Achrafieh, the event marked a pivotal moment for these organizations, transitioning them from the planning and coaching phase into active project implementation with the support of financial backing and continued mentorship.

Catalyzing Impact Across Key Sectors

The Nabad program, funded by the Drosos Foundation and managed by makesense MENA in partnership with CSTouch Advisors, was designed to support organizations driving social impact. The recent grant event served as the culmination of intensive preparation, where representatives presented their projects after receiving workshops and coaching from CSTouch Advisors. The funding targets three critical sectors essential for sustainable development in Lebanon: Education, Circular Economy, and Creative Industries.

The selection process highlighted the resilience and innovation of local initiatives. The full-day event facilitated networking and interactive discussions, allowing participants to exchange ideas and explore potential collaborations before the final pitching session. With the funding now secured, these organizations are set to begin project implementation while continuing to benefit from coaching sessions aimed at maximizing their on-the-ground impact.

A Diverse Portfolio of Innovation

The ten winning organizations represent a broad spectrum of social innovation, ranging from tech-enabled recycling to community-based education. The cohort includes established players in the Lebanese NGO scene as well as emerging initiatives.

The funded organizations include:

• Live Love Recycle: A crowdsourced recycling platform based in Beirut that connects stakeholders in the recycling process. Their mobile app allows citizens to request pick-ups for recyclables, which are collected by drivers on bikes, simultaneously tackling waste management issues and creating employment for those below the poverty line.
• EDUTEKlb: A Chtaura-based service provider bridging the gap between the education system and labor market needs. They provide digital educational and technical training, focusing on STEAM education, makerspace solutions, and digital transformation.
• Design For Communities D4C: An interdisciplinary platform and associated foundation that brings together architects, urban designers, and engineers to engage in community projects. They focus on innovative design solutions for public spaces and community infrastructure.
• MMKN: A grassroots NGO established in 2010 that operates on a model combining volunteering, education, and innovation. They are known for their Public School Support Program (PSSP) and efforts to empower socially responsible citizens.
• Machghalna: A family-owned textile atelier in Zgharta dedicated to employing local women. The initiative produces clothes and textiles locally, aiming to replace imports and provide economic opportunities for women in Northern Lebanon.
• Recycle Lebanon: An initiative focused on holistic circular economy solutions and environmental sustainability.
• GradeA plus: An organization operating within the education and development sector.
• Together LiBeirut- 19.8: A collective initiative focused on community support and recovery.
• Sanabel: An organization contributing to social and developmental growth.
• Wahat Al Farah: A social institution providing support and services to people with special needs.

About makesense MENA

makesense MENA is the regional arm of the international non-profit organization makesense, dedicated to mobilizing citizens, entrepreneurs, and organizations to solve social and environmental challenges. Present in Lebanon since 2016, makesense MENA runs incubation and acceleration programs to support sustainable initiatives across the region, with a specific focus on Jordan, Lebanon, Palestine, and Syria.

Source: makesense MENA