Applications are now open for the Orange Corners Innovation Fund (OCIF) Entrepreneurship Challenge, an innovative competition designed to enhance the business acumen, strategic thinking, and teamwork of Iraqi youth-led startups. The challenge, held in collaboration with Edumundo and Kapita, will use a digital business simulation platform to create a dynamic, experiential learning environment.
Program Overview and Mission
The OCIF Entrepreneurship Challenge is a unique, six-week competition that brings together startups and external youth-led teams to sharpen their business skills. The mission is to promote hands-on learning through a competitive, risk-free simulation, foster teamwork and digital collaboration, and broaden OCIF’s impact by increasing program visibility.
What Participants Will Experience
Teams of 3–5 participants will manage a virtual company through Edumundo’s interactive business simulation. The experience includes:
- Hands-on learning in a risk-free, competitive environment.
- Weekly decision-making rounds covering finance, marketing, HR, and operations.
- Team-based digital collaboration and peer learning.
- A final pitch day to present business strategies and learning insights to a jury.
Prizes
The top three performing teams will receive cash prizes:
- 1st Place: $800.
- 2nd Place: $500.
- 3rd Place: $200.
Who Should Apply?
The competition is looking for Iraqi youth-listed startups. Participants should be:
- Youth-led startups, including OCIF-funded startups and selected external teams.
- Able to form teams of 3–5 members.
Key Dates and How to Apply
Application Deadline: The deadline for submission is September 15, 2025, in Erbil.
How to Apply: Eligible teams can apply here.
About the Organizers
This challenge is an initiative of the Orange Corners Innovation Fund (OCIF), in collaboration with Edumundo, a provider of digital business simulation platforms, and Kapita, a private sector development company that aims to empower Iraqi startups and SMEs.
