stc Bahrain has announced the opening of applications for its InspireU accelerator program, aimed at supporting local startups with funding, training, and resources to help them scale their innovative ideas into successful regional ventures. This initiative is part of stc Bahrain’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurial talent within the country.

The InspireU program, which is overseen by the stc Group, has a history of empowering local entrepreneurs by transforming innovative concepts into flourishing businesses across various sectors. Eng. Khalid Al Osaimi, Chief Executive Officer of stc Bahrain, expressed pride in the program’s return, noting that last year, three Bahraini startups demonstrated remarkable innovation. He emphasized the potential positive impact these entrepreneurs could have on Bahrain’s digital economy and encouraged innovative startups to apply for the program.

Originally launched in Saudi Arabia in 2015, the InspireU program has expanded to Kuwait and Bahrain due to its success. To date, it has supported over 130 digital projects, with total investments surpassing 1 billion Saudi Riyals. The market value resulting from the products and services of startups incubated by InspireU has reached over 15 billion Saudi Riyals. Additionally, the program has created more than 660 000 job opportunities and has positively affected the lives of over 50 million users.

Last year’s iteration of the InspireU program culminated in an intensive bootcamp at stc Bahrain’s headquarters, which identified three transformative Bahraini startups: Rizq, Siin, and Verrt. Rizq focuses on revolutionizing B2B finance with software that helps businesses manage and grow their finances more effectively. Siin is reshaping the MENA e-commerce sector through a live shopping platform that connects consumers to reliable sellers via engaging live shows and gamified auctions. Verrt is disrupting the advertising market with an integrated platform that simplifies media booking for businesses while ensuring transparency and integrity. These startups benefited from a comprehensive support package, which included financial aid, logistical support, expert consulting, and intensive training offered by leading professionals from Silicon Valley.

Entrepreneurs interested in participating can fill out the application form available on stc Bahrain’s website at https://www.stc.com.bh/content/General-Program. For further information, additional details can be found at www.stc.com.bh.