Re:Coded is a new tech entrepreneurship academy which launched in Erbil.

Running throughout September 2018, the Academy will focus on core startup skills, leveraging the internet for success and helping participants build the foundations to secure funding and develop viable businesses.

UKMENA HUB, a digital launchpad for ambitious businesses, is leading content delivery throughout the four-week program to support the growing tech ecosystem in Northern Iraq and the MENA region as a whole.

Applications for the Academy are open now for startups, with a preference for established teams. Zahra Shah, Re:Coded Iraq’s Program Manager, explains “we’re encouraging applications from teams because we want to highlight the power of collaboration and foster teamwork. We also know that in the startup world, strong teams are often more successful.”

Upon completion all participating teams will exit with an MVP and at least two businesses will be funding-ready. UK MENA Hub will continue to work with these startups in the longer term to link them with investment and growth opportunities in the UK ecosystem and beyond.  

“We not only wanted to provide training to Iraqi youth in becoming entrepreneurs but also turn their ideas into actual businesses. It’s important for us to show that tech-businesses are a viable future for the youth in Iraq,” said Marcello Bonatto, Re:Coded’s Co-Founder.

“We’re very excited to be working with Re:Coded on this exciting programme. We’re bringing together the connectivity at the heart of UK:MENA hub with the amazing Re:Coded network to give some of the brightest startup talent in Iraq the chance to shine. We want these entrepreneurs to become leaders in their community and drive these countries forward through technology as they rebuild,” said Tom Strodtbeck, Co-Founder of UK:MENA Hub.