Seedstars Is Coming To Libya And Iraq For The First Time

Seedstars World is flying to Libya and Iraq to give entrepreneurs there a chance to join the largest startup competition for emerging markets and fast-growing startup scenes in the world. For the first time since their establishment, the global hub - which recently launched their co-working and co-living space in Cairo -  plans to hold two dynamic pitching events in Tripoli and Erbil on August 6^th and 10^th respectively.

“Seedstars’ mission to impact people’s lives through technology and entrepreneurship is a perfect match with ours," says Hal Miran, Seedstars Ambassador in Iraq and founder of Erbil's Tech Hub, where Seedstars Erbil will take place. "Their experience with startup ecosystems and entrepreneurs, and the international community they’ve built around them have been crucial factors in our decision to join forces to scout for the best solutions to tackle local issues in Iraq. We really hope local startups appreciate this incredible opportunity." Meanwhile in Tripoli, Libyan entrepreneurs will pitch their business ideas and models in a conference hall at the Radisson Blu hotel.

The companies selected to pitch at any of the events need to be less than two years old, have raised less than $500,000 in funding and built a minimum viable product, ideally with existing traction. The startup needs to also have an adequate plan to prove regional and global scalability. With a strong network of international partners, such as Merck, SPECo, Enel or Continental, the competition organisers are looking for smart startups that tackle regional issues and develop profitable and sustainable products for the global market.

“At Seedstars, we believe talent and good ideas are everywhere. We see ourselves as a platform connecting investors to the next generation of startup entrepreneurs in places where normally people wouldn’t think startup ecosystem have such traction, growth and buzz," says Omar Barakat, Regional Associate for MENA at Seedstars. "We are very excited to be in Libya and Iraq for the first time and we are here to witness the reality."

Applications in Libya are open until July 24th here, and for Erbil, until July 30th here.