The National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) has announced a strategic partnership with Bahrain Fintech Bay (BFB) to launch the NBB Innovation Programme 2025. Unveiled during the Fintech Forward 2025 conference, the initiative is a three-week accelerator designed to equip early-stage fintech startups with the expertise, mentorship, and resources needed to integrate AI, scale their solutions, and refine their business models.
Fostering AI Integration in Finance
Aimed at strengthening Bahrain’s standing as a premier hub for financial technology, the programme’s inaugural edition is centered on the theme “Future of AI Integration.” The initiative will connect ambitious founders with a network of seasoned fintech entrepreneurs, NBB banking professionals, and BFB experts. This curated journey is designed to support startup growth and enhance their readiness for engagement with investors and established financial institutions.
Hisham Abu Alfateh, Chief Corporate Communications Officer at NBB, commented on the launch, stating, “NBB remains committed to nurturing the next generation of fintech leaders by creating meaningful platforms for collaboration, innovation, and development. This programme reflects our belief that AI has the potential to transform financial services, and we are proud to work alongside Bahrain Fintech Bay to empower startups that have the potential to shape the progress of our industry.”
A Three-Track Mentorship Journey
The NBB Innovation Programme 2025 offers a specialized curriculum delivered across three distinct tracks that combine strategic mentorship with hands-on application.
The Fintech Founders Track will be led by successful entrepreneurs, providing participants with real-world insights on scaling strategies and navigating startup challenges. The NBB Track will feature guidance from banking professionals, focusing on critical areas like regulatory compliance and effective bank-fintech collaboration models. Finally, the BFB Track will offer workshops facilitated by Bahrain Fintech Bay, covering topics such as business model validation, investor readiness, and the application of AI tools to drive growth.
Suzy Al Zeerah, Chief Operating Officer of Bahrain Fintech Bay, added, “Through our partnership with NBB, Bahrain Fintech Bay is equipping early-stage fintech innovators to effectively leverage the potential of AI and cutting-edge digital tools. The NBB Innovation Programme will not only accelerate the growth of these startups but also contribute to Bahrain’s position as a leading hub for fintech innovation and sustainable economic progress.”
Path to a $10,000 Prize and Partnership
The three-week accelerator will conclude with a Demo Day on February 4th, 2026, where selected finalists will present their solutions to a panel of judges. The winning team will be awarded a $10,000 cash prize, a three-month incubation period at Bahrain Fintech Bay, and the chance for potential partnership discussions with NBB for real-world implementation. Applications for the programme are open from October 12th to December 8th, 2025, and are open to early-stage fintech startups and founder teams with validated concepts ready to scale.
About The NBB Innovation Program 2025
The NBB Innovation Programme 2025 is a three-week accelerator launched by the National Bank of Bahrain in partnership with Bahrain Fintech Bay. The programme is designed to empower early-stage fintech startups by providing mentorship, hands-on workshops, and expert guidance focused on the theme of “Future of AI Integration.” The initiative aims to support the growth of innovative solutions and solidify Bahrain’s position as a leading fintech hub in the region.
Source: BizBahrain
