The Middle East’s startup ecosystem continues to evolve, with entrepreneurs navigating a shifting investment landscape. In 2023, the region secured $4 billion in startup funding across 583 deals. While 2024 saw a 42% decline, with funding falling to $2.3 billion, the resilience of the region’s startups—particularly in the tech sector—remains evident.

 Despite the slowdown, innovation is thriving as governments and investors actively support emerging businesses. A key driver of this momentum is the region’s growing network of startup incubators and accelerator programs, which provide essential funding, mentorship, and market access. Here’s a look at some of the most influential programs helping startups scale and succeed.

BIAC Innovation Center – Saudi Arabia

Founded in 2017, BIAC is a subsidiary of the Saudi Technology Development and Investment Company (TAQNIA), fully owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF). As the first licensed firm in Saudi Arabia to manage and operate business incubators and accelerators, BIAC is a key player in the kingdom’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Sector-agnostic, BIAC offers a range of programs, including business accelerators, incubators, training camps, and competitions. To date, it has launched over 20 accelerators, 80 training camps, and 60 investment rounds, generating more than $107 million in investment value. Its initiatives have supported over 800 companies and entrepreneurs.

Brilliant Lab – Kuwait

Brilliant Lab (BL), founded by Neda Aldihany in 2011, is an independent startup accelerator dedicated to empowering Kuwaiti entrepreneurs. Through international partnerships with European and American innovators, BL connects startups with global expertise and resources.

With a focus on positioning Kuwait as a regional hub for innovation, BL encourages new product and venture development through business plan competitions, infrastructure support for tech startups, and dynamic networking and knowledge exchange programs.

In collaboration with Rasameel Investment, the incubator is also launching the Brilliant Start program, a pre-seed funding initiative for startups with a prototype or MVP. This 4 to 6-month Kick and Co-Executing Program helps founders build, scale, and expand into the GCC market.

Faster Capital – UAE 

Dubai-based FasterCapital, a global venture builder and online incubator has supported startups since 2014. It has helped over 744 startups secure over $2.2 billion in funding, with direct investments of $683.2 million in 290 companies.

The program welcomes founders in fintech, edtech, healthtech, software, e-commerce, and blockchain, offering end-to-end support. Successful applicants gain access to idea validation, valuation, proof-of-concept development, and market research, equipping them with the tools needed to scale effectively.

 FasterCapital offers a diverse range of programs designed to support startups at various stages of growth. Its “Idea to Product” program provides first-time entrepreneurs a structured pathway from concept to execution, offering essential resources and mentorship to transform ideas into viable businesses.

For startups looking to scale, the “Grow Programs” help facilitate expansion and market entry, providing strategic guidance and networking opportunities. Meanwhile, the “Mega Financing Programs” cater to large-scale ventures, offering access to substantial funding, with potential investments reaching up to $10 billion for high-impact projects.

Flat6Labs – Egypt

Flat6Labs is one of the region’s leading incubators, playing a pivotal role in shaping Egypt’s startup ecosystem since its launch in 2011 by Sawari Ventures.

Investing in over 100 technology-driven startups annually, Flat6Labs equips young innovators with the resources, mentorship, and funding needed to turn their ideas into successful market ventures.

In Egypt, the incubator offers a range of programs, including InvestIT, the Climate Finance Accelerator (CFA), and the Makers—Contech Entrepreneurship Innovation Program.

Kickstart – Bahrain

Kickstart Bahrain is a dynamic incubator, accelerator, and coworking space designed to nurture early-stage startups. It caters to edtech, fintech, and generalist startups from around the world and provides tailored acceleration programs for businesses at various stages of development.

The programs combine weekly live sessions, self-paced learning, and hands-on assignments, culminating in a graduation ceremony where founders pitch their ideas to investors. Graduates gain certification, free company setup, coworking space, and continuous support in Manama, Bahrain. Notably, the program is completely free, requiring only active participation and commitment from founders.

The curriculum covers key areas, from ideation and growth strategies to business model development and product validation. Participants gain insights into industry best practices and receive guidance on launching a business in Bahrain. The program also includes group sessions for peer feedback and specialized training in fundraising and pitching techniques.

Qatar Business Incubation Center – Qatar

Qatar’s startup ecosystem is thriving, with the Qatar Business Incubation Center (QBIC) playing a central role in fostering innovation and entrepreneurship. Established in 2014 as a collaboration between Qatar Development Bank, Qatar Projects Management, and the Social Development Center, QBIC has supported 189 companies and invested 5.86 million QAR to date.

Beyond incubation, QBIC supports startups with funding opportunities, modern workspaces, and advanced communication infrastructure. Its diverse programs cater to different business needs, from launching and accelerating ventures to product manufacturing, securing partnerships, and scaling operations, solidifying its position as a key driver of Qatar’s innovation economy.