Manama: The Labour Fund 'Tamkeen' held a special event to showcase the innovative ideas presented by the finalists of the Mashroo3i programme. The event provided 12 Bahraini entrepreneurs with the opportunity to present their innovative ideas to a panel of investors and stakeholders in the startup ecosystem.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the event aims to support participants in building strategic networks, access expert consultations, and establish partnerships that will accelerate the growth and development of their ventures. The event follows an intensive eight-week bootcamp focused on enhancing the participants' entrepreneurial skills and transforming their innovative concepts into actionable projects. Throughout the bootcamp, participants began establishing startups which allow them to benefit from support programmes designed to launch them in the market.
The Mashroo3i programme is aimed at empowering Bahrainis to enter the field of entrepreneurship by equipping them with the knowledge, guidance, and resources required to successfully launch their businesses. This initiative aligns with a broader objective of enhancing the contribution of Bahrainis to economic development and fostering a new generation of innovators capable of leading the future of entrepreneurship in Bahrain.
Sixty-three teams participated in the bootcamp, undergoing an extensive two-phase qualification process. This includes project ideation and feasibility assessment as the first stage, followed by specialized consultations in the second stage to refine participant skills and expand their professional networks. Following this process, 12 finalists were selected to take part in the final pitch event.
The Mashroo3i programme plays a critical role in enabling Bahrain's creative entrepreneurs, equipping them with the tools and knowledge necessary to transform innovative ideas into successful businesses. Through Mashroo3i, Tamkeen works to create a positive impact by generating quality employment opportunities for local talent, while delivering innovative solutions that contribute to the growth and diversification of the national economy. The programme highlights entrepreneurs who are capable of turning their pioneering ideas into thriving businesses, creating high-value job opportunities.
The demo day featured innovative concepts across various sectors, including technology, healthcare, tourism and entertainment, and transportation and logistics. The proposed solutions aimed to address existing challenges, enhancing their chances of success and sustainability.
Empowering the growth of the startup ecosystem in Bahrain is one of Tamkeen's main objectives as it continues to provide the necessary support for Bahraini startups. Last year, 2,780 startups received support through various programs to launch operations in the private sector. Additionally, Tamkeen collaborates with leading financial institutions to offer tailored financing solutions. Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) represented almost 52% of all funding requests, reaffirming Tamkeen's dedication to fostering the growth and sustainability of this vital sector.
Launched in 2012, the Mashroo3i programme has played a critical role in helping Bahraini entrepreneurs launch innovative ideas and new projects in the local market. Since its inception, the programme has shown many success stories, underscoring the importance of supporting entrepreneurship from the earliest ideation phase. The programme provides aspiring entrepreneurs with the opportunity to refine their business ideas, access specialized support, and secure the financial backing required to turn their innovative concepts into sustainable businesses.