5th Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group Startups & Innovation Pitch Competition 2026 Concludes in Baku, Honoring Nine Exceptional Startup Winners
The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group has successfully concluded the 5th IsDB Group Startups & Innovation Pitch Competition 2026 during its Annual Meetings and Private Sector Forum held in Baku, Azerbaijan. This event, which took place from June 15 to June 17, 2026, gathered a diverse group of entrepreneurs, innovators, investors, and policymakers from IsDB Member Countries to explore innovative solutions to pressing development challenges.
Competition Overview and Themes
Under the theme “Empowering Innovation, AI, Finance, Trade, and Entrepreneurship Across OIC Markets,” the competition showcased a wide array of innovative projects. It attracted over 220 startup applications across six strategic innovation tracks: Artificial Intelligence & Deep Tech, AgriTech & Food Security, FinTech & Cybersecurity, Sustainability & Climate, Supply Chain & Smart Cities, and Human Development & Health.
Selected startups underwent a rigorous evaluation process and participated in a three-day Bootcamp in Baku. During this period, they received mentorship, investment-readiness training, and pitch coaching from both local and international experts, enhancing their capabilities to present their innovations effectively.
Global Demo Day and Finalists
The competition culminated in the Global Demo Day, where twelve finalist startups presented their innovations to an international jury. This jury comprised representatives from government institutions, development organizations, venture capital firms, and entrepreneurship networks.
After careful deliberation, the jury recognized three outstanding startups for their exceptional innovation and impact across key strategic sectors.
Award Winners
The First Place Champion award was presented to BIOSHELL, represented by Mr. Gurban Davudov, in the Sustainability, Climate & Infrastructure track. BIOSHELL was acknowledged for its innovative approach and significant potential to contribute to sustainable development and environmental resilience.
The Second Place Champion was awarded to Bayuti, represented by Mr. Anouar Adham, in the FinTech, Digital Payments & Cybersecurity track. Bayuti impressed the jury with its forward-thinking financial solutions and commitment to advancing secure digital ecosystems.
The Third Place Champion was Park Hub Baku, represented by Mr. Orman Sultany, competing in the Supply Chain & Smart Cities track. This startup was recognized for its cutting-edge solutions addressing urban mobility and smart infrastructure challenges.
These winning startups exemplify the transformative potential of technology-driven solutions across various industries.
Track Laureates
In addition to the main awards, six startups were recognized as Track Laureates:
- AIRT – Artificial Intelligence & Deep Tech
- Smart Sagro – AgriTech & Food Security
- Derad Network – Supply Chain & Smart Cities
- Climasel – Sustainability, Climate & Infrastructure
- Proedia – Human Development, Health & Social Services
- Mink Platform – FinTech, Digital Payments & Cybersecurity
Awards Ceremony
The winners were honored during an official Awards Ceremony attended by senior leadership from the IsDB Group, representatives of the Government of Azerbaijan, development partners, investors, and key stakeholders from the innovation ecosystem.
This competition is part of the IsDB Group’s broader commitment to fostering innovation-driven growth, strengthening entrepreneurial ecosystems, supporting youth-led enterprises, and promoting regional collaboration among Member Countries.
Supporting Innovation and Entrepreneurship
Through the IsDB Group Startups & Innovation Platform, entrepreneurs gain access to mentorship, strategic partnerships, investment opportunities, and international market exposure. The IsDB Group remains dedicated to empowering the next generation of innovators and supporting sustainable and inclusive development across the OIC region.
The IsDB Group Startups & Innovation Pitch Competition is a flagship initiative aimed at identifying, supporting, and accelerating high-potential startups across IsDB Member Countries. It provides entrepreneurs with opportunities to access technical support, capacity-building, investment networks, and global visibility, promoting innovation as a driver of sustainable development and economic growth.
Source: www.zawya.com
Read all the latest developments and breaking updates in the Latest News section.
Published on 2026-06-20 14:36:00 • By the Editorial Desk
