In the heart of Palestine’s startup ecosystem lies a powerful story of resilience and community. Founders navigate adversity with determination, shaping a tech landscape that is not only surviving but steadily growing. In September 2024, the EBRD invested $3 million in Ibtikar Fund II to support up to 25 early-stage startups, boosting digital innovation and job creation in the West Bank. The Palestinian tech contributes about 4% to GDP and is growing steadily at a 6% CAGR, underscoring its resilience and economic significance.
The Tech for Palestine incubator has been instrumental in supporting Palestinian businesses, fostering a growing infrastructure for ethical, Muslim-friendly technology solutions. The launch of semiconductor design firm Orion in Rawabi highlights the ICT sector’s potential to generate high-tech jobs, even in difficult conditions.
In October 2024, several Palestinian startups joined the GITEX Expand North Star Conference in Dubai, gaining global exposure and building key partnerships, reflecting their rising international presence. The Palestinian Mentorship Program links entrepreneurs from Gaza, East Jerusalem, and the West Bank with over 90 global mentors. Running in six-month cycles since 2020, it helps bridge Palestine’s startup scene with global markets through expert support in marketing, business growth, and product strategy.
In February 2025, representatives from four Palestinian university-based business support centers visited Cairo as part of the Riyada programme. The delegation aimed to enhance the capacity of Higher Education Institutions and Business Support Centres in supporting SMEs and youth-led startups. This initiative underscores the importance of regional collaboration in driving innovation and digital transformation within Palestine's entrepreneurial landscape.
