Launched to respond to the deep-rooted challenges facing Palestine’s economy, the Riyada programme sought to strengthen the foundations of entrepreneurship and small business growth. Historic restrictions on movement, trade and development have long suppressed the region’s economic potential, particularly in the West Bank, East Jerusalem, and Gaza. Despite these constraints, Palestinian entrepreneurs have continued to drive innovation and resilience. Recognising this potential, SPARK, in partnership with Birzeit University and in collaboration with An-Najah National University, Palestine Polytechnic University, and Al-Quds University (Abu Dis), developed the Riyada programme with funding from the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development. Over 19 months, the initiative worked to equip higher education institutions and business support centres with the tools, knowledge and capacity needed to nurture the next generation of Palestinian entrepreneurs.

Building institutional capacity

Strengthening the capacity of Business Support Centres (BSCs) was a central pillar of Riyada’s approach. Four university-based BSCs underwent comprehensive evaluations to assess their existing services and identify areas for growth. Following these assessments, each centre received a tailored capacity-building plan to help improve the quality and range of support services available to entrepreneurs and MSMEs. As part of this process, 22 staff members and prospective mentors were trained in specialised business development skills, equipping them to deliver stronger mentoring, coaching, and technical assistance. Recognising the critical role of technology in business sustainability, Riyada also organised a two-day training focused on digital transformation and artificial intelligence, helping BSC staff integrate modern digital tools into their services. To broaden learning and foster collaboration, a study visit to Egypt was facilitated, where representatives from the Palestinian BSCs engaged with counterparts from Egyptian higher education institutions to exchange best practices and explore future partnerships. Additionally, essential equipment was procured for all four BSCs, enhancing their ability to deliver more effective training and business support in a professional environment.

“The Riyada Programme is a testament to the power of collaboration between the Arab Fund, SPARK, Birzeit University, and our partner institutions—to empower incubators, startups, and SMEs. At this critical time, the Arab Fund remains committed to strengthening Palestine’s economic resilience.” Dr. Samir Jarad, Advisor, Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development.

Investing in the next generation of entrepreneurs and strengthening SMEs

Beyond institutional strengthening, the Riyada programme placed a strong emphasis on entrepreneurial development. A total of 120 young entrepreneurs participated in an intensive startup training programme that focused on building core business skills, developing innovative ideas, and crafting preliminary business plans. Following the training, selected entrepreneurs pitch their ideas to a panel of evaluators. Sixteen promising startups, four from each participating university, were awarded seed funding to kickstart their businesses. Alongside financial support, these startups received tailored mentorship, coaching on access to finance, and guidance on reaching new markets. Notably, more than half of the entrepreneurs engaged in the boot camps were women, underlining the programme’s commitment to inclusive economic participation.

Reflecting on the programme’s achievements, Dina Almasaeid, Regional Programme Director – Middle East at SPARK, said:

“The Riyada programme has shown that even in an uncertain and extremely difficult political and economic reality, Palestinian entrepreneurs are ready to build, create and lead. By investing in young people, institutions and businesses, we are investing in the long-term stability and prosperity of the region.”

The programme also worked with existing MSMEs to help them overcome operational bottlenecks and strengthen their market presence. Twelve MSMEs benefited from customised technical services, coaching and mentoring, helping them address critical challenges and position themselves for growth despite ongoing instability. This hands-on support, paired with broader ecosystem strengthening, has contributed to a more resilient and responsive entrepreneurial environment in Palestine.

Beyond the numerical impact

The closing ceremony marked a key moment to take stock of Riyada’s achievements and to focus on what comes next. Entrepreneurs, partners and institutional leaders reflected on lessons learned throughout the programme, recognising both the progress made and the challenges that remain in building a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem in Palestine. Discussions centred on the realities of doing business during instability, the practical barriers facing startups and SMEs, and the strategies needed to sustain and expand the gains achieved so far. As Riyada concludes, its impact is already visible in the strengthened capacity of institutions, the growing confidence of young entrepreneurs, and the momentum building across Palestine’s business landscape to drive lasting economic growth.