Equipping people in MENA with the resources they need to prosper
Across the Middle East, innovators are redefining what’s possible. The Innovation Hub transforms bold ideas into jobs, confidence, and lasting progress
Empowering Changemakers
Turning Ideas Into Action
The Innovation Hub empowers changemakers across the Middle East to turn bold ideas into lasting impact. We provide flexible micro-grants that help innovators act fast and rebuild their communities from within.
Drawing on deep regional insight, we remove barriers like bureaucracy and corruption to support practical, high-trust solutions. Inspired by Tyler Cowen’s Emergent Ventures, we back people with the vision and drive to create sustainable change and shape a stronger future for the Middle East.
“My generation lives with the idea that they have a lot of potential but no means to achieve it. The Middle East is filled with talented people, but poor education systems, political instability, and violent unrest have blocked them from realizing their dreams.”
Rafal Al Adilee
Innovation Hub project manager
Innovation Hub Stories
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Read more: Afghan Women Rebuilding Their Lives Through CraftWith support from the Innovation Hub at Ideas Beyond Borders, Artijaan is helping more than 1,000 Afghan women preserve their culture, rebuild their livelihoods,…
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Read more: Afghans Resist Taliban War on Education and Cultural MemoryThe Taliban are replacing science with dogma and erasing culture from classrooms. Afghans supported by Ideas Beyond Borders are fighting back with underground schools,…
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Read more: Afghanistan’s Hidden Classrooms: How Innovators Are Defying the TalibanAfghan entrepreneurs like Ahmad Zia Yousufi are using technology and digital training to keep women and youth connected to learning despite Taliban restrictions.
Areas of Impact
From classrooms to creative studios, from startups to civic media, the Innovation Hub fuels opportunity in every form.
Business startups
Economic freedom grows when ideas turn into enterprise. By supporting innovators who act on their vision, communities move from dependence to opportunity.
Independent Media
Free expression is the foundation of innovation. Our media grantees combat misinformation, create safe spaces for dialogue, and reach nearly 9 million followers across the region.
Arts & Culture
Art brings people together. We support creators who celebrate cultural heritage and turn their talent into businesses that strengthen local communities.
Educational Initiatives
Knowledge fuels innovation. By expanding access to translated science and philosophy, rebuilding libraries, and fostering lifelong learning, we prepare minds for creativity and progress.
Women Empowerment
We invest in women who lead change. From engineers to entrepreneurs, women across the region are turning barriers into opportunities through Innovation Hub support.
250+
Total Projects
Remodeling Development
Traditional aid too often tells people what to build. We do the opposite — giving them the freedom to lead.
Inspired by Tyler Cowen’s Emergent Ventures model, the Innovation Hub replaces top-down development with trust-based investment in local genius.
We back unconventional thinkers who challenge norms
We act fast and cut red tape
We embrace risk and reward ambition.
We offer flexible funding for home-grown solutions to local challenges.
We focus on real outcomes: jobs, resilience, and shared prosperity.
We leverage local talent, considering barriers, cultural diversity, and geographical contexts.
Shape the Future of the Middle East with Your Support
Your support equips innovators with the tools to turn ideas into impact.
Make a tax-deductible donation today!
Meet the innovators building the Middle East of tomorrow
Get updates on new startups, creators, and projects turning bold ideas into real opportunities.
The Innovation Hub builds on IBB’s educational and policy programs, turning the exchange of ideas into engines of opportunity.