Bahraini Women Power Ahead
Young Bahraini women with bold business dreams are stepping into global markets through the fifth edition of the 'Imtiaz' initiative, launched by the Supreme Council for Women (SCW) to champion export-ready female-led startups.
First launched in 2011 by Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Wife of His Majesty the King and President of the Supreme Council for Women (SCW), the 'Imtiaz' platform has evolved into a key springboard for women-led enterprises aiming to scale beyond Bahrain.
Participation has surged since its inception, rising from 11 entrepreneurs in the first round to 98 in the fourth.
Now in its fifth cycle, the initiative is actively calling for applications from Bahraini women under 45 with at least three years of entrepreneurial experience, whose businesses are licensed and hold majority ownership.
A strong emphasis is placed on export potential, creativity, sustainability, and readiness for digital transformation.
Support system
'Imtiaz' does more than recognise excellence.
It offers branding benefits, access to investors, expert mentorship, and media visibility to winners.
Participants gain tools to refine their products, develop marketing strategies, and meet international standards - helping them compete beyond Bahrain's borders.
Eligibility conditions include submitting financial documentation and proof of legal licensing, and showing a strong foundation in buying, selling, or services. Judges assess projects on innovation, scalability, governance, and social responsibility.
Past winners from previous editions have built thriving businesses in fields ranging from food manufacturing and law to tech consulting, interior design, and medical services.
From local to global
The latest round also places new weight on strategic readiness for international expansion.
Projects must integrate digital tools, align with Fourth Industrial Revolution trends, and demonstrate risk management plans and operational resilience.
This focus is part of a broader national effort to enhance women's participation in the economy, consistent with the goals of the National Plan for the Advancement of Bahraini Women.
Flexibility
It reflects a push toward equal opportunity, combining professional ambition with the flexibility to balance family life.
Entrepreneurs who meet the criteria can now apply to join the fifth 'Imtiaz' cohort and take their business vision global.
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