Riyadh (IraqiNews.com) – The “Baghdad Bridge” entrepreneurship program has launched in Saudi Arabia, bringing together more than 35 Iraqi startups for workshops and networking sessions with Saudi and regional investors. The three-day event, running from September 13-15 in Riyadh, is aimed at forging new economic partnerships and supporting Iraq’s digital economy.
Ammar Munim, the head of the Iraqi Government Communication Team, confirmed Iraq’s participation in the program, emphasizing that it is a key part of the government’s strategy to promote entrepreneurship, create jobs, and reduce poverty. The program, organized by Kapita Business Hub and funded by Orange Corners Baghdad, is supported by the Saudi Ministry of Communications’ Digital Entrepreneurship Center (CODE HQ) and is a strategic partnership with Digital Zone. The workshops are led by experts on topics such as adapting business models for the Saudi market and legal and regulatory requirements.
The program focuses on important sectors including logistics, FinTech, digital health, and AgriTech, with the goal of showcasing the startups’ products to potential Saudi and regional investors. Mujahed Waisi, director of Kapita, described the program as a “great opportunity” to build a bridge between the private sectors of both countries. He noted that while trade relations are strong, the startup sector needs more robust ties.
For Saudi companies, the program is a chance to explore the growing Iraqi market. For Iraqi startups, it serves as a gateway to global markets. Saif Al-Mufti, the founder and CEO of Digital Zone, a strategic sponsor, sees the program as a way to highlight Iraqi innovation and expand his company’s regional presence. Since its founding in 2020, Digital Zone has grown to serve over five million active users in Iraq, making it a key player in the nation’s digital commerce.
