stc Bahrain shortlists top start-ups for inspireU from stc

Manama, Bahrain – August 2026: stc Bahrain, a digital enabler, has launched the second phase of the 13th intake of the inspireU from stc program, featuring a competitive judging event where 17 local start-ups showcased their innovative projects and solutions to a panel of leading industry experts and strategic partners.

During the judging stage, entrepreneurs presented their innovative projects and business models across several high-growth sectors, including fintech, e-commerce, and digital platforms. The start-ups were evaluated against key criteria, including innovation, market potential, and scalability. The program winners will receive a comprehensive support package designed to accelerate the growth of their businesses, including financial support, intensive training, mentorship from industry experts, and opportunities to connect with partners and investors across regional and international markets.

Sh. Zeyad bin Faisal Al Khalifa, Chief Government Affairs Officer at stc Bahrain, commented: “We are incredibly proud of the exceptional caliber of Bahraini talent showcased during this year's inspireU judging event. At stc Bahrain, we are dedicated to cultivating an entrepreneurial ecosystem that drives digital innovation and economic diversification. By providing these promising start-ups with the critical resources, mentorship, and market access they need to scale, we are actively nurturing the next generation of digital leaders and advancing the ambitious goals of Bahrain’s Economic Vision 2030.”

Since its launch by stc Group, the inspireU program has established itself as a cornerstone of digital entrepreneurship in the region, successfully supporting inspireU has supported more than 130 digital start-ups across the region, helping them raise over SAR 1 billion in funding and contributing to the creation of more than 660,000 job opportunities.

As the 13th intake moves forward, stc Bahrain continues to cement its role as a leading catalyst for innovation, transforming creative ideas into sustainable businesses that contribute to the Kingdom's thriving digital future.