Zain Iraq continues to support, enable, and empower local innovation
Zain Iraq continues to support, enable, and empower local innovation, strengthening the regional presence of Iraqi startups through Zain Group’s Demo Day
*Building on Zain Iraq’s role within the Zain Great Idea program, the participation marked the culmination of a development journey that included mentorship, capability building, and advanced training exposure in Silicon Valley.
Baghdad – Iraq | February 2026
Zain Iraq continued its efforts to support and empower local innovation through the participation of Iraqi startups in the Demo Day hosted by Zain Group, which represented the final milestone of the Zain Great Idea technology accelerator program, with startups participating from across the Group’s operating markets.
This edition brought together startups from six Zain markets, reflecting the program’s growing regional scope and strengthened collaborative ecosystem. Entrepreneurs from Iraq, Kuwait, Bahrain, Jordan, Saudi Arabia, and the UAE presented innovative technology solutions to investors and business partners, exploring opportunities for cooperation and growth.
Commenting on the event, Zain Group Vice Chairman and CEO Bader Nasser Al-Kharafi said: "At this stage, ideas transform into opportunities, and opportunities into real partnerships and investments. In every idea, I find new inspiration, and through guidance and mentorship, young innovators turn their visions into a future-shaping reality."
This initiative aligns with Zain Group’s strategy to foster investment in innovation and digital entrepreneurship, linking accelerator outcomes to funding opportunities and commercial partnerships.
Zain Iraq CEO Emre Gürkan stated: "Empowering Iraqi startups represents a strategic investment in the future of the digital economy. Providing access to specialized regional platforms offers real opportunities for expansion and partnership building."
Building on Zain Iraq’s role within the Zain Great Idea program, this participation continues a multi-stage development journey that has included intensive training, mentorship sessions, and international acceleration exposure, including business development experience in Silicon Valley, a global hub for entrepreneurship and technology. which enhanced startup readiness for investor engagement and regional presentations.
From Iraq, two startups that progressed through the program: Jameela.com, presented by Khaled Al-Saadi, is a digital commerce platform connecting buyers and sellers while improving inventory management and supply chain integration; and Saleem, presented by Dr. Taha Ayad, is a health-technology startup delivering innovative digital care solutions, including telemedicine, home-care applications, and medical devices, demonstrating the diversity and scalability of Iraqi innovation.
Zain Iraq reaffirms its commitment to supporting digital innovation and enabling the local entrepreneurial ecosystem, contributing to digital transformation, economic diversification, and sustainable growth.