On 30 November 2024, Benghazi became the epicenter of entrepreneurship as it hosted the joint finale of the Startup Success Lab for both Benghazi and Derna. This grand event, part of the Ruwwad Project under the Deraya Initiative for Entrepreneurship, celebrated the culmination of a transformative journey for 40 startups—20 from each city—who embarked on a mission to turn their innovative ideas into impactful businesses.
Over 10 days of training, mentorship, and collaboration, these entrepreneurs tackled regional challenges with creativity and determination, focusing on job creation in Benghazi and sustainability in Derna. The final event brought together participants, mentors, and stakeholders to honor the 20 winning startups that stood out for their vision, innovation, and potential to drive meaningful change in Libya.
A Transformative Journey of Learning and Growth 🚀
The Startup Success Lab in Benghazi and Derna followed a proven framework that equipped participants with the skills and tools needed to turn ideas into action. Highlights of the 10-day program included:
This intensive process ensured that all participants left the program better prepared to navigate the challenges of entrepreneurship and make a positive impact on their communities.
The Winning Startups: Champions of Innovation and Impact 🌟
At the joint finale, 10 startups from each city were announced as winners, recognized for their exceptional contributions to Libya’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Benghazi Winners
1. Palmetics: An environmental startup turning palm waste into eco-friendly products, creating jobs in manufacturing and sustainability.
2. Ivy: A recycling project tackling e-waste while generating employment in waste management and materials reuse.
3. Your Doctor at Home: A home medical services platform creating jobs in healthcare and improving access to care.
4. Gen-Nouvo: A media production company promoting Libyan artists and creating roles in content creation and marketing.
5. Pronto: A fintech platform simplifying financial transactions for shop owners, driving employment in tech and financial services.
6. Miss Ouda: An eco-friendly home decor business using recycled materials, creating opportunities in design and production.
7. Kayan: A digital platform connecting businesses with suppliers, streamlining logistics and creating tech jobs.
8. Mubtaker for Digital Health: A digital health system improving hospital administration and generating roles in healthcare tech.
9. Sababa: A vegetarian breakfast startup promoting healthy living and sourcing ingredients locally, creating jobs in food production.
10. Chronic / Care 360: A healthcare platform helping patients manage chronic illnesses, generating roles in app development and patient support.
Derna Winners
1. Awa for Candles and Gifts: A creative gift shop specializing in candles and custom products, creating jobs in production and marketing.
2. Isee: A modern alarm and monitoring system enhancing security while generating jobs in tech installation and development.
3. My Space: A tech hub offering students access to high-spec devices, fostering innovation and creating tech support roles.
4. Rec for Recycling: A recycling startup tackling plastic waste and creating jobs in waste management and processing.
5. JobEzz: A training and job-matching platform addressing youth unemployment and empowering local talent.
6. Maamel Tabkh: A homemade meal delivery service creating roles in food preparation and logistics while enhancing convenience for customers.
7. Al-Badr Furniture Manufacturing: A furniture production business meeting local demand and generating jobs in design and manufacturing.
8. Wood Recycling Project: A startup converting wood waste into reusable materials, promoting sustainability and creating manufacturing jobs.
9. Chair Factory: A manufacturing business producing high-quality chairs and creating roles in production and distribution.
10. Studio Noor: A female-focused photography studio providing a private and secure space for women, creating roles in photography and customer service.
A Joint Celebration of Ambition and Resilience 🎉
The final event in Benghazi was a vibrant celebration of creativity, collaboration, and resilience. Entrepreneurs from both cities showcased their polished pitches to a panel of judges, mentors, and stakeholders, leaving a lasting impression with their innovative ideas and dedication.
The event highlighted the collective achievements of Benghazi and Derna, showcasing how tailored entrepreneurship programs can address regional challenges while contributing to a shared vision of growth and sustainability.
A Shared Vision for Libya’s Future
The success of the Startup Success Labs in Benghazi and Derna underscores the transformative potential of entrepreneurship in Libya. By focusing on job creation and sustainability, these startups are contributing to:
1. Economic Growth: Generating jobs and supporting local industries in key sectors such as healthcare, technology, and sustainability.Looking Ahead: A Bright Future
With financial grants and mentorship, the 20 winning startups are now poised to scale their operations, create more jobs, and inspire the next wave of Libyan entrepreneurs. Their success is a testament to the power of collaboration, innovation, and resilience.
As the Ruwwad Project and Deraya Initiative continue to support entrepreneurship across Libya, the impact of programs like this will ripple across cities, communities, and industries, driving long-term change and prosperity.
Stay connected to the Ruwwad Project to follow the journeys of these exceptional startups and witness the transformative power of entrepreneurship in shaping Libya’s future. 🚀