Manama: The Labour Fund "Tamkeen" has signed an agreement with "Startupbootcamp", a globally recognized leader in business acceleration, to support emerging tech companies specializing in AI in the Kingdom of Bahrain. This collaboration is part of national efforts to position Bahrain as a regional hub for entrepreneurship and innovation.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the announcement of this agreement was made during the Gateway Gulf Investment Forum 2025, held in Bahrain from November 2nd to 3rd, 2025. Through this initiative, Tamkeen and Startupbootcamp will launch the AI Accelerator Program, aimed at empowering Bahraini entrepreneurs in the field of artificial intelligence.
The program is designed to help participants develop AI-based ventures from conception to market-ready products, thus contributing to the advancement of innovation and growth of Bahrain's technology ecosystem. Participants will receive specialized training in AI and data-driven business models, gaining technical knowledge and strategic insights to develop scalable solutions. Additionally, they will have access to a network of industry partners, tailored mentorship, guidance, and investment opportunities to support their ventures' growth and sustainability.
This initiative aligns with Tamkeen's strategic priorities for 2025, focusing on enhancing the competitiveness of Bahrainis in the private sector, equipping them with skills for career development, and prioritizing enterprise growth, digitization, and sustainability.
Maha Abdulhameed Mofeez, Chief Executive of Tamkeen, expressed satisfaction with the collaboration, emphasizing the importance of empowering local talent to drive transformation and build innovative technology ventures. These ventures are expected to create high-quality employment opportunities for Bahrainis, supporting the national economy's development.
Carsten K¸lbek, Co-founder and Chairman of Startupbootcamp, highlighted the partnership's role in strengthening Bahrain's technology sector. He noted that the collaboration will enable Bahraini entrepreneurs to address key sector challenges, create job opportunities, and drive innovation and economic growth.
Hani Murad, regional CEO of Startupbootcamp and Rainmaking, added that the program aims to train 160 Bahraini entrepreneurs and develop 80 market-ready products over three years. A direct investment of USD 4 million will support promising projects, offering participants the chance to engage with global experts and mentors, launch their ventures, and access further investments for business expansion.
Startupbootcamp, established in 2010, is a leading business acceleration platform operating more than 80 programs across four continents. It has successfully graduated over 180 startup cohorts and supported the launch of more than 1,800 startups, with total funding exceeding USD 3.2 billion, positioning it as a key player in the growth of emerging technological enterprises.