Amidst a complex tapestry of cultures and histories, Lebanon's startup industry stands out in the Middle East as a symbol of creativity, perseverance, and untapped potential. In recent years, Lebanon has seen a surge in startup activity, ushering in a new era of innovation and entrepreneurship in the country. Startup incubators and accelerators are at the vanguard of this ecosystem, acting as catalysts for entrepreneurial success by providing a fertile environment for new businesses to develop and disrupt conventional industries. In this article, we have compiled a comprehensive list of Lebanon's startup incubators and accelerators, so you will be able to find a program that suits you!
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FULL LIST OF STARTUP INCUBATORS AND ACCELERATORS IN LEBANON
Full list of startup incubators and accelerators in Lebanon:
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Social Impact
The Safir EU program in Lebanon is an ambitious effort co-financed by the European Union that aims to promote youth and advance the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the Middle East and North Africa. The initiative aims to increase the youth's involvement and enable the creation of entrepreneurial enterprises with social, cultural, and environmental effect. It assists around 1000 young project leaders from nine countries, including Lebanon, with training and support sessions at various phases of their projects, with awards going to the most ambitious and developed ideas. ACIE at USEK, the program's local incubator in Lebanon, plays an important role in providing assistance, fostering innovation, and producing a regional guide to social entrepreneurship. Overall, Safir EU allows young entrepreneurs to advocate for sustainable development goals, participate in their communities' social and economic life, and have a significant regional influence.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Software, Digital, Web/Mobile
Headquartered in Beirut's Digital District, Speed@BDD is a renowned digital startup accelerator that aims to help Lebanon's software firms achieve quick development and success. The program's goal is to build an exclusive network of high-potential businesses, primarily in the software, digital, and web/mobile industries. It provides a full support network, including mentorship, investor networks, and operational assistance, giving companies the resources and contacts they need to expand quickly. Furthermore, Speed@BDD works with leading investment funds and entrepreneurship support organizations, including Berytech Fund II, Middle East Venture Partners (MEVP), IM Capital, LFE, and Bader, to provide financial investments, workspace, and technology services, positioning itself as a catalyst for the region's next generation of high-growth businesses.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Multiple Sectors
Smart ESA, in collaboration with HEC Paris, provides a comprehensive curriculum aimed at developing entrepreneurial abilities in Lebanon. The program seeks to provide participants with the information and resources they need to create new ideas and entrepreneurial abilities. It offers a unique learning experience through theoretical courses, specialist seminars, field trips, and a 12-week "Launchpad Program" in France and the United Kingdom. Smart ESA also provides a variety of programs suited to different phases of company growth, such as a competition for firms with early traction, a program for entrepreneurs with creative ideas, and sector-specific programs such as Ed-Tech and Green & Sustainability. Furthermore, the program builds a supportive community by offering access to mentors, coaches, and strategic partners, allowing entrepreneurs to develop and prosper in a dynamic and nurturing entrepreneurial environment.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Sector Agnostic
The Bloom initiative, through its Lebanese Growth Accelerator (LGA) program, intends to promote the growth and development of high-potential firms in Lebanon. LGA is a four-month initiative that will provide project-based methodology, world-class assistance, and $10,000 in financial grants to 50 firms. The program provides training, mentoring, and business assistance to enterprises around Lebanon. Supported by the European Regional Development and Protection Programme for Lebanon, Jordan, and Iraq (RDPP II), the initiative seeks to improve economic development, job creation, and adaptation in changing conditions, eventually contributing to the growth and learning of enterprises in Lebanon.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Technology / Multiple Sectors
Berytech, Lebanon's largest entrepreneurial ecosystem, is committed to supporting startups and SMEs via a diverse range of programs and support activities. The company creates and develops unique businesses in a dynamic atmosphere that promotes technology, creativity, and entrepreneurship. Berytech's multifaceted programs provide a variety of benefits, including company help, mentorship, access to worldwide markets, financial advice, office space, and community involvement. Berytech shapes Lebanon's tech and innovation scene by establishing strategic linkages, international alliances, and affiliations, eventually contributing to job creation and the long-term viability of startups and SMEs.
Who is it for: Early startup with a team
Need to have an idea: Yes
Focus: Technology
Flat6Labs Lebanon Seed Fund (LSF), a $20 million early-stage fund, aims to assist 100 Lebanese entrepreneurs over the next five years, focusing on firms in the idea stage to early development. The program is managed by Flat6Labs Beirut and offers investment ticket sizes ranging from $30,000 to $500,000, along with mentorship-driven seed programs, operational advice, office space, and a variety of other benefits and services. With a focus on high-potential, innovation-based enterprises in diverse knowledge-based industries, the ultimate goal of the program is to stimulate the Lebanese economy, create value, and support enthusiastic entrepreneurs.
Closing Thoughts on Startup Incubators and Accelerators in Lebanon
Lebanon's startup ecosystem is a unique blend of diverse influences, distinguished by a combination of regional dynamics, global connectedness, and local innovation. Even as the country faces economic hardships and geopolitical complications, its entrepreneurial spirit continues to thrive, resulting in a vibrant and fast expanding ecosystem of entrepreneurs ready to have a worldwide effect.