Algiers, Algeria – The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group’s 2025 Annual Meetings spotlighted startups and innovation as key drivers of inclusive growth across member countries, with African-led ventures playing a central role in the high-profile pitch competition held from May 18–21.
Held under the theme “Diversifying Economies, Enriching Lives,” the 3rd IsDB Startups Innovation Pitch Competition brought together emerging entrepreneurs tackling challenges in digital transformation, climate resilience, and the creative economy. The competition followed a multi-day bootcamp designed to provide mentorship and business development skills.
Startups from Africa and beyond pitched their solutions to a global audience of investors, development partners, and policymakers. The event was hosted in partnership with Algeria’s Ministry of Knowledge Economy, Startups and Microenterprises, and Algeria Venture, reflecting strong local and institutional support for entrepreneurship.
“These young entrepreneurs are building real solutions for real problems,” said a senior IsDB official. “Their innovation is central to our vision for sustainable development.”
Empowering Africa’s Innovation Ecosystem
The presence of African startups in the competition highlighted the region’s growing role in global innovation. Startups using AI, clean energy, agri-tech, and e-health platforms demonstrated scalable solutions with strong impact potential across underserved communities.
Participation in the IsDB platform gave these ventures access to valuable exposure, capital opportunities, and cross-border networks—crucial for startups seeking to scale regionally.
Private Sector Forum Launches Investment Lab
Alongside the pitch competition, the IsDB Private Sector Forum (PSF) convened CEOs, investors, and policy leaders to explore capital mobilisation for sustainable development. A key outcome was the expansion of the IsDB Private Sector Investment Lab, which aims to drive job creation by unlocking financing for startups and high-growth SMEs.
The lab’s next phase will focus on increasing membership and scaling investment into strategic sectors—including tech, green infrastructure, and creative industries.
Looking Ahead: IsDB’s Innovation Priorities
Key priorities emerging from the 2025 Annual Meetings include:
Youth entrepreneurship: Increased support for startup ecosystems via incubators, financing, and mentorship. Green innovation: Promoting clean tech and climate-resilient startups to advance the SDGs. Private sector collaboration: Strengthening investment environments through regulatory reform and strategic partnerships.
As African economies continue to diversify, the IsDB platform is positioning itself as a key player in enabling innovation-led development.
For more updates on the IsDB Group’s entrepreneurship programs, visit www.am.isdb.org.