Innovate for Bahrain (i4BH) has joined forces with Visa, a global leader in digital payments. Led by the Supreme Council for Women (SCW) and operated by Bahrain FinTech Bay (BFB), Innovate for Bahrain is set to become a cornerstone for promoting entrepreneurship and innovation in the Kingdom. The strategic partnership with Visa, announced in November 2023, marks a pivotal step towards creating equal opportunities in the realm of innovation and technology.
The collaboration between Innovate for Bahrain and Visa underscores a shared commitment to nurturing local talent and fostering a culture of innovation. One of the key aspects of this partnership is Visa’s support for the Innovation Community Center, which serves as a hub for entrepreneurs, youth, and professionals to collaborate and innovate. Through various initiatives, Visa will promote financial literacy and assist in developing innovative solutions to address business challenges.
Malak Alsaffar, Visa’s Country Manager for Bahrain, emphasized Visa’s dedication to supporting local talents and driving digital transformation. “At Visa, we know local talents can play an important role in driving digital transformation and promoting inclusive economic growth. We are always ready to offer our expertise as well as industry leading technology and network to enable young professionals, women entrepreneurs, fintechs and startups in key markets like Bahrain to create innovative local solutions to unique business and commerce challenges. That’s why we are delighted to partner with Innovate for Bahrain to help build local talent and capacity and to support the local government’s digital commerce agenda,” said Alsaffar.
Bader Sater, CEO of Bahrain FinTech Bay, highlighted the significance of partnering with Visa in advancing Bahrain’s innovation agenda. “Visa has been a strong supporter of the startup ecosystem and female entrepreneurs in Bahrain for many years. Their experience will be invaluable in driving innovation and empowering Bahrainis to build innovative solutions for the Kingdom. This partnership with Visa signifies our commitment to working closely with the private sector to foster a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation in Bahrain at the highest global standard. We are excited to see what opportunities this partnership will create for local talents and professionals across the Kingdom.” noted Sater.
Mohamed Al-Subaiee, Director of Innovate for Bahrain, expressed enthusiasm about the collaboration with Visa. “Innovate for Bahrain produces impactful learning experiences that empower local talents in their career ambitions and entrepreneurial spirits. We provide innovative learning projects merging educational technologies and global case studies.”
“We are thrilled to partner with Visa to enable diverse innovations in upskilling programs and supporting professional growth,” he added.
As part of the partnership, Visa plans to train and empower 600 entrepreneurs and professionals through Innovate for Bahrain, contributing significantly to the development of a vibrant startup ecosystem in the Kingdom. With a focus on inclusivity and innovation, this collaboration sets the stage for Bahrain to emerge as a hub for creativity and technological advancement in the region.