Lebanese Innovation Economy Tech Startups 2018
Description: With over 100 investments having taken place between 2013-2016, Lebanon is one of the thriving capitals of digital innovation in the MENA. Thus, it is evident that Circular 331 boosted the startup scene, as witnessed with the rise of more startups, accelerators, venture capital, and ecosystem support programs. Lebanese tech startups face many obstacles in their entrepreneurial journey. To name a few: low availability of tech talent, the Lebanese regulatory and policy framework, and lack of access to customers and markets. However, it is not all doom and gloom; as there are many strengths to the ecosystem. The Lebanese startup scene has witnessed several exits, among which are Cleartag, Diwanee, and Shahiya.com. The thriving ecosystem has also witnessed a surge in coworking spaces and the emergence of a strong digital sector cluster in Beirut Digital District (BDD).
