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MENA Insurtech & Fintech Startup Competition 2026

Empowering the Next Wave of Fintech & Insurtech Startups

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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.

Summit group picture 2023

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?

↗
Investor Matchmaking & B2B Networking

Access strategic investors and partners for Seed and Series A stages.

◎
3,500+ Attendees

Engage with decision-makers from insurance, finance, and the public sector.

★
Mentorship from Industry Experts

Guidance from VCs, insurers, and ecosystem leaders.

▶
Live Pitch on the Main Stage

Shortlisted pre-seed startups pitch to a live audience and jury.

🏆
Recognition & Opportunities

Awards, pilot programs, and sandbox opportunities.

⎈
Visibility & Media Exposure

Exposure across summit media, reports, and partner promotions.

Who Should Apply?

Startups must meet the following criteria:

🏁
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.

👥
Team Commitment

At least one team member is available to pitch onsite or virtually.

Participation Tracks & Benefits for Shortlisted Startups

Category A (Seed to Series A)
  • 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
Category B (Pre-Seed & Early Stage)
  • 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 Now

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Last Edition Partners