The Blackbox Elevate programme recently concluded in Brussels, bringing together 17 leaders from startup support organisations across Lebanon, Jordan, Palestine, and Tunisia to encourage collaboration, shared learning, and innovation. The aim was to promote collaboration, shared learning, and innovation in the region’s entrepreneurial ecosystems. This initiative is part of the “From Innovation to Creation” programme, funded by the European Union (EU) in collaboration with SPARK and Blackbox.

Blackbox Elevate adopts a network-driven model, grounded in the belief that thriving ecosystems are built through collaboration rather than the efforts of a single entity. The programme combines technical expertise with cultural shifts, creating an environment focused on learning and adaptation. It is an invitation-only, residential capacity-building event  designed to strengthen connections and drive sustainable ecosystem growth.

“Blackbox Elevate has ignited meaningful connections and shared knowledge, helping participants elevate their startup ecosystems with innovative approaches and collaborative solutions,” said Dina Almasaeid, Regional Programme Director for Middle East at SPARK.

“By bringing together diverse stakeholders from the MENA region and Europe, Blackbox Elevate aims to create a platform for shared learning, innovation, and catalyzing social impact through entrepreneurship,” said Fadi Bishara, Founding Partner of Blackbox.

Over four days,  the programme featured 25 sessions and workshops led by 21 experts from leading organisations such as Startup Genome, Impact Europe, EBN, Ashoka, and The Human Safety Net. These sessions addressed critical areas for entrepreneurial ecosystem development, including impact measurement, catalytic capital, policy navigation, and media engagement strategies.

Participants gained valuable insights into topics such as adopting agile coaching methodologies, leveraging catalytic capital to drive social and environmental impact, and integrating impact measurement and management practices into organisational strategies. The programme also provided guidance on forming partnerships with European entities and using media to increase startup visibility.

“The Blackbox Elevate program offered a unique platform for participants to engage with experts, exchange insights, and collaboratively address the challenges faced by their startup ecosystems,” said Ahmad Sufian Bayram, General Partner at Blackbox.

Throughout the programme, participants identified opportunities for growth and developed actionable strategies to enhance their organisations’ impact. These insights hace already  driving meaningful change, with participants creating new partnerships, refining their programme offerings, and implementing best practices to support the growth of their respective startup ecosystems.

“It was an incredible experience to witness the exchange of ideas, energy, and collaboration between so many passionate leaders and brilliant minds from across the MENA region and Europe,” said Majd Froukh of Station J in Palestine. “The insights, connections, and lessons will surely leave a lasting impact on all of us.”

Blackbox remains committed to being at the forefront of elevating the entrepreneurship landscape in MENA and promoting increased collaboration between the region and Europe. The organisation plans to continue its capacity-building initiatives, creating new opportunities for growth and innovation in the MENA startup ecosystem.