The first quarter of the year saw Bahrain play host to BINOVATE 2025, a mini-expo organised by the BNI (Business Network International) Bahrain Chapter in association with the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation – Investment Technology Promotion Office (UNIDO-ITPO) Bahrain. This dynamic two-day event brought together over 500 business leaders, investors, and industry experts from 17 countries, fostering innovation, networking, and investment opportunities. The idea-packed event had 50 exhibitors showcasing their innovation and products to a global audience and exploring Bahrain as a hub for investments.
The event began with an insightful address by Murtala Jinah, the Nigerian Ambassador to Kuwait, alongside Dr. Hashim Suleiman Hussein Mohamed of UNIDO. Keynote speakers Mohamed Al Ali and Audra Shallal shared their thoughts on global business trends and the power of innovation as a stimulus for economic development. Keynotes and panel discussions were particularly engaging, with topics like digital transformation and artificial intelligence being in vogue. A noteworthy mention was the focus on fintech and artificial intelligence, especially greater impact and inclusion, mobile payments, security and challenges in AI adoption.
BINOVATE 2025 has set the stage for empowering connections and facilitating business expansion in the GCC and beyond through the gateway of Bahrain
“BINOVATE is more than a networking event. It is a platform for innovation and growth,” said Mr Arunoday Ganguly, National Director of Business Network International (BNI), Bahrain chapter. “BNI is the world’s largest business networking platform with over 350,000 members in 78 countries driving business expertise through referrals. This event is our initiative to showcase the business potential of Bahrain and contribute to its emerging economic strength. The opportunities to collaborate and explore business potential with our 80-plus local members are endless,” he added.
The pitching competition and exhibits of innovation were crowd pullers. 12 start-ups had the opportunity to present their ideas to panel experts for mentorship, funding, and exposure opportunities. Bahraini start-up Temprah, whose eco-friendly cooling gear aims to revolutionise the lives of those working in extreme temperatures, such as food delivery, construction, and industrial areas, won the first prize of £ 1500.
Revent, a Dubai-based online marketplace for pre-loved electronics championing the circular economy in the MENA region, and Croozz, the Bahrain-based telematics app designed for reducing accidents, secured second place.
The event emphasises Bahrain’s growing commitment to global partnerships in entrepreneurship and innovation. BINOVATE 2025 has set the stage for empowering connections and facilitating business expansion in the GCC and beyond through the gateway of Bahrain. The 2026 event planning is underway, and needless to say, more visionaries, creators, and ideators will find their way to the Pearl of the Persian Gulf next year!
