- 1 Standard booth at the startup pavilion
- Pre-arranged meetings with VCs & Insurers/Banks
- Round tables for investors and startups (by invitation only)
- 3 complimentary summit passes
- Access to the event’s app for B2B matchmaking
- Company listed on summit website, event app and social media; winners announced to regional & international database
- Opportunity to join MENA Insurtech Accelerator (Insurtech track winners)
- Eligible for multiple awards (Best Startup, Top Pitch, QIC Digital Innovation Award)
- Invitation to satellite events / international showcases
MENA Insurtech & Fintech Startup Competition 2026
Empowering the Next Wave of Fintech & Insurtech Startups
Competition Overview
The 5th Edition of the MENA Insurtech and Fintech Summit is proud to present a dynamic Startup Competition designed to spotlight innovation in emerging markets for insurtech, fintech, and AI, with focus on the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) Region. This platform offers startups a high-impact opportunity to showcase solutions, engage global investors, and connect with regulators and industry leaders.
Competition Tracks
Startups may apply under one of three innovation tracks:
Insurtech
- Digital underwriting & claims
- Usage-based / embedded insurance
- Parametric & microinsurance models
- AI for fraud, onboarding, pricing
Fintech
- Digital banking, payments & wallets
- Lending & credit scoring platforms
- Wealthtech, savings & robo-advisory
- Open banking & financial infrastructure
AI for Financial Services
- Machine learning in risk management
- Generative AI for CX or compliance
- Predictive analytics and automation
- Regtech and fraud prevention tools
Why Participate?
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Investor Matchmaking & B2B Networking
Access strategic investors and partners for Seed and Series A stages.
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3,500+ Attendees
Engage with decision-makers from insurance, finance, and the public sector.
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Mentorship from Industry Experts
Guidance from VCs, insurers, and ecosystem leaders.
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Live Pitch on the Main Stage
Shortlisted pre-seed startups pitch to a live audience and jury.
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Recognition & Opportunities
Awards, pilot programs, and sandbox opportunities.
⎈
Visibility & Media Exposure
Exposure across summit media, reports, and partner promotions.
MENA Roadshow & Global Events
A series of roadshows across key MENA markets and participation in global events will take place in the lead-up to the competition. These initiatives aim to engage startups and ecosystem partners, highlight innovation across the region, and build momentum toward the 5th Edition of the MENA Insurtech and Fintech Summits.
Who Should Apply?
Startups must meet the following criteria:
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Stage
Category A: Seed to Series A — live product with market traction.
Category B: Pre-Seed & Early Stage — MVP / pilot in development.
🌍
Geographic Relevance
Based in the MENA region or actively targeting MENA markets.
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Team Commitment
At least one team member is available to pitch onsite or virtually.
Participation Tracks & Benefits for Shortlisted Startups
- 1 Standard booth at the startup pavilion
- 5-minute live pitch on Pitch Stage + Jury Q&A
- Round tables for investors and startups (by invitation only)
- 3 complimentary summit passes
- Access to the event’s app for B2B matchmaking
- Company listed on summit website, event app and social media; winners announced to regional & international database
- Potential POCs with sponsors & partners (upon availability)
- Eligible for multiple awards (Best Startup, Top Pitch, QIC Digital Innovation Award)
- Invitation to satellite events / international showcases
Your Startup Could Be the Next Big Breakthrough in MENA
Pitch your innovation live at the MENA Insurtech & Fintech Summit 2026, and gain access to global investors, mentors, and opportunities that drive real growth.
Apply NowLast Edition Juries
Last Edition Partners
