Bahrain is set to become the hub for global entrepreneurship as it welcomes the prestigious World Business Angels Investment Forum (WBAF) 2024. Under the patronage of HRH Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, the Crown Prince and Prime Minister, the event will take place from November 19-20 at the Four Seasons Hotel Bahrain Bay. With a focus on financial inclusion, innovation and startup growth, this year’s forum promises to attract thought leaders, investors and entrepreneurs from across the world.
Leading the local effort is Feryal Abdulla Nass, Chair of the Bahrain Entrepreneurship Organisation (BEO) and WBAF Country Director for Bahrain. “This congress presents a unique opportunity for Bahrain to showcase its potential as a regional hub for entrepreneurship and innovation. We are excited to connect with international investors and empower local startups to thrive,” she says. Her leadership will be pivotal in positioning Bahrain as a key player in the global entrepreneurial landscape.
The forum will feature a variety of highlights, including the Global Fundraising Stage, where 100 global startups will present their innovative solutions to a panel of international investors. This offers a vital opportunity for these startups to secure capital and scale their businesses. The event will also host international delegations from countries such as the USA, India, Côte d’Ivoire and Korea, underlining WBAF’s mission to promote financial inclusion and innovation on a global scale.
Among the high-profile attendees will be HE Kolinda Grabar-Kitarović, former President of the Republic of Croatia, who will chair the Global Women Leaders Committee Annual Meeting and speak at the Presidential Roundtable on Financial Inclusion. Her presence, along with that of HE Yves Leterme, former Prime Minister of Belgium, and Swati Mandela, granddaughter of Nelson Mandela, reinforces the event’s stature as a premier gathering of influential figures from around the globe.
In addition to the congress, the World Excellence Awards VIP Gala Dinner at Raffles Al Areen Palace Bahrain will celebrate individuals who have made significant contributions to the global entrepreneurial and investment community. The event will also include the glamorous Red Carpet Walking of 2024, set to take place during the Chairman’s Reception at the Raffles Palace.
On the private side of the gathering, the WBAF Grand Assembly will convene on November 18 at Wyndham Grand Manama, bringing together key stakeholders to discuss strategic initiatives. The Bahrain Chamber of Commerce and Industry (BCCI) will also facilitate B2B meetings on November 21, enabling further networking and collaboration between international and local participants.
Baybars Altuntaş, Executive Chairman of WBAF, highlighted the importance of the event: “WBAF 2024 is a testament to our commitment to fostering a vibrant startup ecosystem. We are thrilled to welcome global leaders and innovative startups to Bahrain, where we will collectively explore pathways to financial inclusion and sustainable development.”
The event is supported by key sponsors, including Tamkeen, GFH Financial Group, the National Bank of Bahrain and STC, whose contributions will further enhance Bahrain’s growing reputation as a centre for entrepreneurial growth.
With a mix of high-profile discussions, opportunities for startups, and international recognition, WBAF 2024 promises to be a pivotal event for both Bahrain and the global startup economy.
