TiE Dubai has officially launched the application process for the 7th edition of the TiE Women MENA Program 2026, aimed at bolstering women-led startups across the MENA region. Open until June 25, 2026, the program invites women founders or co-founders with a minimum of 33% equity in their businesses, established post-January 1, 2019, to apply. Selected participants will benefit from comprehensive support, including mentorship, investor access, pitch training, and equity-free funding opportunities. Approximately 45 to 50 founders will be chosen to compete in five regional tracks, with winners receiving prize money and exposure at the prestigious Expand North Star during GITEX Global 2026.
Since its inception in 2020, the TiE Women MENA Program has significantly impacted the entrepreneurial landscape by supporting over 1,000 women-led businesses. This year, the initiative is set to enhance its outreach with various events leading up to the application deadline, including an AMA session with alumni and a pitch night for female founders to connect with investors and mentors. The program underscores the resilience and adaptability of women entrepreneurs, as highlighted by Co-Chairs Carlina Marani and Shameema Parveen, who emphasize the importance of fostering a supportive community for female founders.
The program will culminate in regional virtual finals in September, followed by MENA-level finals in December at GITEX 2026, providing finalists with an international platform to showcase their ventures. With backing from partners like Nokia, the initiative aims to close the gender gap in entrepreneurship, which could significantly boost economic growth in the region. By empowering female founders with essential resources and networks, the TiE Women MENA Program continues to position itself as a pivotal player in advancing women-led innovation and economic diversification in the MENA region.
Since its inception in 2020, the TiE Women MENA Program has significantly impacted the entrepreneurial landscape by supporting over 1,000 women-led businesses. This year, the initiative is set to enhance its outreach with various events leading up to the application deadline, including an AMA session with alumni and a pitch night for female founders to connect with investors and mentors. The program underscores the resilience and adaptability of women entrepreneurs, as highlighted by Co-Chairs Carlina Marani and Shameema Parveen, who emphasize the importance of fostering a supportive community for female founders.
The program will culminate in regional virtual finals in September, followed by MENA-level finals in December at GITEX 2026, providing finalists with an international platform to showcase their ventures. With backing from partners like Nokia, the initiative aims to close the gender gap in entrepreneurship, which could significantly boost economic growth in the region. By empowering female founders with essential resources and networks, the TiE Women MENA Program continues to position itself as a pivotal player in advancing women-led innovation and economic diversification in the MENA region.
Source: Wamda
