21 September, 2025

Mark Saudi National Day with Heartfelt Celebrations and Authentic Local Flavours at Address Jabal Omar Makkah

 


 

Gather loved ones to honour the 95th Saudi National Day with a series of vibrant festivities, live entertainment, lavish feasts, and 15% off stays throughout September 

 

Makkah, Saudi Arabia (XX September 2025): Nestled in the heart of the Holy City and renowned for its world-class hospitality, Address Jabal Omar Makkah is the ultimate destination for any occasion. With Saudi National Day just around the corner, this stunning property is going all out for the holiday, promising an unforgettable experience for families, solo travellers, and pilgrims alike. on September 23rd and throughout the month, guests can look forward to an array of dining delights, authentic traditions, and an exclusive 15% off stays for the entire month, ensuring every moment of your celebration exudes Saudi pride, heritage, and refinement.  

 

Saudi National Day Celebrations 

Embrace a dazzling celebration of Saudi Arabian heritage at Address Jabal Omar Makkah this September 23rd. Taking place from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM , in-house guests can enjoy a traditional Ardah performance, showcasing rhythmic drumming, poetic chants, and synchronised sword dancing that brings the spirit of Saudi culture to life in a captivating display. Ensuring you look the part for the occasion, a talented henna artist will also be on hand to create intricate designs. Finally, rounding out the celebration, guests are invited to join an exclusive cake-cutting ceremony, honouring the 95th Saudi National Day with an indulgent treat. 

 

When: September 23rd from 12:00 PM to 3:00 PM 

Offer: Saudi National Day celebration for in-house guests 

*For bookings and more information, call 00966125531444or email dineatmakkah@addresshotels.com  

 

Lobby Lounge & Café 

Experience a haven of relaxation and sophistication at the Lobby Lounge & Café, where private booths offer a tranquil escape inspired by the grandeur of Al Masjid Al Haram. Nestled within both towers of Address Jabal Omar Makkah, this engaging space exudes a sense of comfort and familiarity, making it the perfect spot to relax or catch up with friends. The venue’s skilled baristas are always ready to craft freshly brewed Saudi coffee, ideal for pairing with locally inspired treats, while the expert chefs curate a wide range of special dishes designed to satisfy every craving. 

 

National Day-Inspired Treats 

Start your Saudi National Day celebrations on a delicious note with two specially curated treats available this September. Settle into the Lobby Lounge & Café’s warm atmosphere as you tuck into succulent Green Sliders for SAR 69, inspired by the occasion. Alternatively, satisfy your sweet tooth with an aromatic Saudi coffee and a selection of Arabic sweets priced at SAR 95 for a taste of tradition.  

 

When: Throughout September 

Offer & Price: 

  • SAR 95 for Saudi Coffee with Arabic Sweets 

  • SAR 69 for Green Sliders  

*For bookings and more information, call 00966125531444 or email dineatmakkah@addresshotels.com  

 

The Restaurant 

As the hotel’s largest dining venue, The Restaurant provides an exceptional gastronomic experience that pleases every discerning palate. Diners can delight in traditional Hejazi cuisine alongside other Saudi Arabian specialities, or head to the live cooking stations to watch the culinary brilliance in action. Located on the 1st and 2nd floors of each tower, The Restaurant boasts stunning interiors that exude opulence around every corner, immersing guests in an ambience of elegance and refinement.  

 

Dinner Buffet 

Mark Saudi National Day with a mouthwatering dining experience at The Restaurant, promising to match the splendour and joyous spirit of the occasion. Set within the venue’s opulent interiors, this unique culinary journey features an array of both locally and internationally inspired dishes in a lavish buffet spread. Priced at SAR 195 per guest, pair the experience with free-flowing beverages and toast to the legacy of the Kingdom surrounded by loved ones.  

 

When: Throughout September  

Offer & Price: SAR 195 per person for international and Saudi-inspired buffet 

*For bookings and more information, call 00966125531444 or email dineatmakkah@addresshotels.com  

 

In-Room Dining 

For those seeking a more private dining experience this Saudi National Day, indulge in gourmet flavours in unparalleled comfort with in-room dining throughout September. With a selection of chef-crafted dishes all priced at SAR 95, choose to savour a mouthwatering Green Burger paired with your choice of soft drink or opt to delight in the flavourful Kabsa Meal. Guests can also enjoy the timeless pairing of expertly brewed Saudi coffee with Arabic sweets, perfect for a midday pick-me-up. 

 

When: Throughout September  

Offer & Price:  

  • SAR 95 for Green Burger (Chicken or Meat) and a soft drink 

  • SAR 95 for Kabsa Meal (Chicken or Meat)  

  • SAR 95 for Saudi Coffee with Arabic Sweets  

*For bookings and more information, call 00966125531444 or email dineatmakkah@addresshotels.com  

 

September Stay Offer  

Fully immerse yourself in all the vibrant festivities and rich local flavours with 15% off stays all month long. Mark the occasion in style as you settle into one of Address Jabal Omar Makkah’s elegantly appointed rooms and experience the property’s signature world-class service. Additionally, guests can seize the opportunity to visit some of the Kingdom’s most revered sites, with Masjid Al Haram and the Kaaba at your doorstep. 

 

When: Throughout September  

Offer: 15% off all guest rooms  

*For bookings and more information, call 00966125531444 or email dineatmakkah@addresshotels.com  

 

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Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University Signs MoU with THE-CODE to Enhance Digital Skills and Build Innovative Learning Environments



 

21 September 2025: Hamdan Bin Mohammed Smart University (HBMSU) signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with THE-CODE, a company specialized in educational programs and technology-driven initiatives. The agreement aims to launch impactful projects that empower learners, upskill educators, and build knowledge ecosystems aligned with future demands.

The signing ceremony was attended by H.E. Dr. Mansoor Al Awar, Chancellor of HBMSU. The MoU was signed on behalf of the University by Dr. Fahad Al Saadi, Vice Chancellor for Institutional Resources and Services, and on behalf of THE-CODE by Radwa Salem, Managing Director of the company.

This partnership reflects the University’s commitment to developing a smart learning model driven by AI innovation and digital skills development. Through strategic alliances with specialized entities, HBMSU ensures its lifelong learning system remains aligned with the dynamics of the Fourth Industrial Revolution and the aspirations of the 'UAE’s national agenda.

The MoU focuses on developing tailored programs including learners aged 7 to 16, aimed at building future skills in coding, artificial intelligence, critical thinking, and innovation. It also emphasizes the design of interactive, multilingual learning environments that combine advanced self-paced learning with engaging experiences., The MoU outlines professional development initiatives for teachers, including smart learning tools, educational leadership, and effective change management.

H.E. Dr. Mansoor Al Awar stated: “We believe that building a digitally empowered learning community capable of driving transformation starts with investing in educators and young learners. Our programs and initiatives integrate emerging AI tools and technologies with a forward-thinking vision.”

Radwa Salem expressed her pride in the partnership, emphasizing that collaboration with HBMSU offers strong momentum for THE-CODE’s efforts to empower the next generation of innovators in technology and entrepreneurship.

The two parties to the MoU will organize workshops, coding boot camps, and educational hackathons that apply concepts of artificial intelligence and robotics. They will also establish learning innovation labs and incubators to support emerging entrepreneurial projects and integrate digital sustainability into school curricula.

The MoU also includes conducting joint impact evaluation studies to assess the educational outcomes of digital transformation and provide recommendations that inform future education policy – aligned with the ‘UAE 2031 Vision’ and the ‘Dubai Economic Agenda (D33)’. This collaboration aligns closely with HBMSU’s academic pillars, particularly the mission of its pioneering School of e-Education, which is the first of its kind in the region.

The school is dedicated to redefining education through smart, learner-centric models that integrate innovation, flexibility, and inclusivity. It offers highly advanced programs designed to prepare educators, instructional designers, and learning technologists to lead the digital transformation of education and shape the learning of tomorrow. Through these initiatives, the school advances HBMSU’s vision of positioning smart learning as a catalyst for sustainable development and educational excellence in the UAE and beyond.

This collaboration marks another strategic step in HBMSU’s journey toward cementing its position as an innovative academic institution, preparing national talents to lead transformation in education, technology, and the future economy.

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Elm concludes its participation in Money 20/20 Middle East

 Marking notable success and commanding a distinguished presence


 

21 September 2025 - Elm, a leading digital solutions company, successfully completed its participation in the Money 20/20 Middle East Exhibition and Conference, held from September 15 to 17, 2025, at the Riyadh International Convention and Exhibition Center (Mulham). The company maintained a prominent presence at the event themed ‘Where Money Meets Business,’ standing out among key figures and decision-makers in the financial services sector.

During the exhibition, Elm finalized several key strategic agreements and memoranda of understanding. Notably, the company formalized its partnership with EJARI, aiming to digitize and securely streamline financial transactions in the real estate sector. Elm also signed an agreement with Bupa to facilitate financial operations and boost technological integration. Additionally, the company signed a strategic partnership agreement with fUtic, offering its Yakeen services for customer data verification. The entity also entered into a formal partnership with Hemmtk to build a secure and reliable financial system through its Dhamen solution.

Furthermore, Elm signed a framework agreement with Takamol for Business Solutions, which involves data sharing and the provision of integrated solutions to its clients. Additionally, the company’s partnership with neoleap will facilitate the delivery of digital and technical vehicle-related solutions through the Mojaz platform, with support from Tabby to enhance digital payment flexibility and value for customers. Elm also formalized partnerships with Najm for Insurance Services Company to reinforce data exchange, as well as with Emkan Finance to accelerate digital transformation and expand the scope of digital services through Dhamen.

At the exhibition, Elm showcased its comprehensive financial ecosystem, highlighting key platforms and services such as Rabet Solutions and the innovative Dhamen service, which functions as a trusted intermediary to receive and transfer funds to the correct recipients. The company also introduced Dakhli, the electronic Natheer service, and the pioneering Lizam solution for assessing risks to individuals and businesses by utilizing accurate data. Additionally, Elm demonstrated the unmatched benefits of its Nafath platform and the secure, dependable Yakeen service, along with its remote verification solution for residents and expats whose information is not available at the National Information Center.

The company also highlighted its Thaki solution, which can detect fraud and verify point-of-sale transactions and insurance claims, improving operational reliability and secure settlements. Additionally, it emphasized the cloud-based Tasdeed platform, which simplifies supply chain bill payments in partnership with certified banking providers to ensure business continuity and reduce financial risks.

Elm’s Electronic Wallet stood out as a highly innovative solution, along with the fully integrated digital finance gateway Quick Tik, which digitizes invoices and payments, enabling fast and secure fund collection as well as distribution. Additionally, the company showcased its comprehensive payment gateway and billing system, capable of managing the entire billing cycle—from account and subscription creation to precise transaction tracking—seamlessly integrating with SADAD, the Zakat, Tax and Customs Authority, and SAP systems.

Majid bin Saad Al Arifi, the Official Spokesperson and CEO VP of Marketing sector at Elm, stated that the agreements emphasize the company’s commitment to advancing digital transformation in the financial industry. It also aligns with the company’s vision to strengthen the regional fintech industry by providing innovative solutions that support secure digitization and documentation of financial transactions while building strategic partnerships to meet the market’s changing needs.

He added: “Elm’s advanced digital solutions reflect our belief that the fintech sector requires intelligent and secure infrastructure, which was a key focus of our participation in the event. Over the years, we have helped build strong financial infrastructure, empowering both major financial institutions and startups to launch innovative products and services quickly and efficiently, supported by an integrated ecosystem of solutions. Additionally, our APIs improve integration by connecting financial and commercial entities. They also enable organizations to better manage their financial operations through intelligent payment and billing gateways that are fully integrated with government and commercial systems.”

Notably, the event coincides with the rapid growth of the KSA fintech sector, which is expected to reach a valuation of USD 4.5 billion in 2033, up from USD 1.9 billion in 2024, growing at a CAGR of 10.27 percent. By the end of last year, the Kingdom had 261 licensed fintech companies, with venture investments in the sector exceeding SAR 7.6 billion. Additionally, a total of 12.6 billion electronic payments were processed, representing 79 percent of all individual payments, highlighting the significant digital transformation taking place in the Kingdom, which Elm actively supports and aims to keep pace with.

The participation emphasizes Elm’s long-term goal to lead digital transformation and technological progress both locally and worldwide. The company also aims to continuously innovate solutions and develop services that align with its mission of empowering individuals through smart technologies and diverse solutions that serve them and improve their quality of life.

Ru’ya 2025 introduces Pod exhibitors, opening new pathways for Emirati talent into key industries


 

  • New Pod exhibitors connect Emiratis with specialised sectors, such as engineering, healthcare, insurance, and digital services
  • Well-known first-time exhibitors including Emirates Flight Catering, Aldar Properties, Al Tayer Group, Dubai Academic Health Corporation, and Adidas join the line-up
  • Ru’ya 2025 takes place at the Dubai World Trade Centre from 23 – 25 September

 

 

September 21, 2025:  Ru’ya, Careers UAE 2025 will open its doors this month, bringing together more than 180 organisations committed to empowering Emirati talent with career pathways and skills for a fast-changing job market.

 

This year’s edition introduces Pod exhibitors for the first time –  14 compact 2m x 2m counters designed to make it easier for companies to engage directly with Emirati job seekers. The Pods expand Ru’ya’s reach across high-demand sectors, giving young Emiratis access to recruiters and hiring managers in fields such as engineering, healthcare, education, insurance, and digital services.

 

Pod exhibitors include AI 71, Liva Insurance, Buro Happold, Khansaheb Civil Engineering, MedNet Global Healthcare Solutions, Munich Re, and Taaleem, among others. These established businesses are making their first focused approach to Emirati recruitment, underscoring the growing interest in aligning with the UAE’s national talent agenda.

 

Alongside the Pods, Ru’ya 2025 also welcomes several major first-time exhibitors. Emirates Flight Catering, Aldar Properties, Al Tayer Group, Dubai Academic Health Corporation, and Adidas will spotlight structured graduate programmes, management trainee schemes, and on-the-job training opportunities, reinforcing the event’s position as a critical platform for Emiratisation.

 

Meshal Almarzooqi, AVP – National Talent & Government Affairs at Emirates Flight Catering, saidWe firmly believe that Emirati talents have the potential to shape the future of our industry. Over the past two years, we have recruited a significant number of UAE nationals into our workforce and are proud of the robust retention rate that indicates long-term career growth opportunities we provide them. At Ru’ya 2025, we aim to exhibit our expanding Graduate Trainee, Management Trainee, and Apprenticeship programmes, along with the remarkable success stories of Emirati talents who have progressed to leadership roles. We continue to invest in structured development opportunities, strategic partnerships and meaningful career pathways that enable Emiratis to drive the future of aviation and catering services.”

 

With thousands of Emirati students, graduates, and professionals expected to attend, Ru’ya 2025 will showcase more than 180 exhibitors, alongside workshops, panels, and competitions that prepare attendees with future-ready skills. The introduction of Pod exhibitors reflects Ru’ya’s role in diversifying career access and supporting the UAE’s Emiratisation targets, including 8% private sector participation by the end of 2025.

 

Ru’ya extends its sincere appreciation to its sponsors, including DP World, Platinum Sponsor; Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), Gold Sponsor; and Emirates National Oil Company (ENOC), Silver Sponsor.

 

For more information on Ru’ya, Careers UAE, please visit www.ruyacareers.ae

 

ENDS

Ministry of Culture launches ‘Path of Creativity’ Program to train and employ Emiratis in Cultural and Creative industries

 In collaboration with ‘Nafis,’ General Women's Union, and UAE Media Council


 

Abu Dhabi, September 21, 2025: The Ministry of Culture - in collaboration with the Emirati Talent Competitiveness Council ‘Nafis,’ the General Women’s Union, and UAE Media Council - is set to launch ‘Path of Creativity’ program, aimed at supporting citizens seeking employment in the cultural and creative industries. The program will be hosted at the Maqam Council in Al Ain City on 25 September 2025, bringing together federal and local entities as well as private sector companies.

 

The initiative is designed to connect Emirati creatives with job opportunities that align with their skills and expertise, ensuring their talents are fully utilised while strengthening the contribution of the cultural and creative industries to the nation’s economy. By establishing direct communication channels between creatives and private sector institutions, the program seeks to streamline the employment process and foster collaborations across various creative fields.

 

Additionally, the program aims to develop the professional skills of creatives by providing specialised training and qualification programs that help them adapt to different work environments. The initiative also seeks to encourage creatives to participate in international projects, exhibitions, and programs that enhance their presence on the global stage.

 

As part of this program, the Ministry of Culture will place up to 300 interns annually across various fields, including music, photography, fine arts, publishing, library sciences, gaming, graphic and architectural design, technology, media, and the broader creative economy. These one-year paid internships will provide hands-on training, enabling trainees to contribute meaningfully to ongoing projects and initiatives.

 

The Ministry of Culture affirmed its commitment to nurturing Emirati talent by providing a stimulating training environment that enables trainees to contribute to the sustainable development journey and enhance the role of the cultural and creative industries as a fundamental pillar for achieving the ‘UAE Vision 2030,’ which aims to build a diversified and sustainable economy based on knowledge and innovation.

 

The program will commence in the third quarter of 2025 with 50 interns, expand to 100 interns in the fourth quarter, and conclude in September 2026.

 

In 2024, the Ministry of Culture, in collaboration with ‘Nafis,’ successfully facilitated the employment of 485 male and female UAE citizens through the ‘Creatives for Employment’ program.

 

18 September, 2025

"كانون الشرق الأوسط" ومجلس سيدات أعمال دبي يختتمان بنجاح الموسم الثاني من برنامج "ومن هو إمباور"

 



  اختتام المبادرة التدريبية الشاملة بتكريم المشاركات المتميزات في محاور التصوير الفوتوغرافي، وصناعة المحتوى، والطباعة.

   الشراكة بين "كانون الشرق الأوسط" ومجلس سيدات أعمال دبي" تجسد التزاماً مشتركاً بتعزيز مشاركة المرأة في مجتمع الأعمال.

  المبادرة تنسجم مع توجهات دولة الإمارات نحو بناء مجتمعات أقوى وتدعم رؤيتها لتحقيق النمو الاقتصادي الشامل.

دبي، الإمارات العربية المتحدة18 سبتمبر / أيلول 2025 /PRNewswire/ -- نظّمت "كانون الشرق الأوسط"، الشركة الرائدة عالمياً في مجال حلول التصوير، بالتعاون مع  مجلس سيدات أعمال دبي، حفل توزيع جوائز احتفاءً باختتام الموسم الثاني من حملتها الناجحة "ومن هو إمباور" (Women Who Empower)، وتكريم المشاركات المتميزات اللواتي أتممن بتفوق جميع محاور البرنامج التدريبي الشامل الذي يهدف إلى تمكين المرأة ودعمها في قطاعي التصوير والطباعة.

المشاركات في الموسم الثاني من برنامج "ومن هو إمباور"، إلى جانب مسؤولين تنفيذيين من "كانون" وممثلين عن مجلس سيدات أعمال دبي، في حفل توزيع الجوائز الذي أقيم مؤخراً في غرف دبي

امتدت المبادرة من 17 أبريل ولغاية 16 يونيو 2025، وشملت تدريباً مكثفاً عبر ثلاثة محاور متخصصة، وزودت المشاركات بالمهارات والمعرفة اللازمة للارتقاء بمسيرتهن المهنية ومشاريعهن الريادية في مجالات التصوير والطباعة. كما حصلت جميع الخريجات على شهادات إتمام البرنامج، بينما نالت المتميزات جوائز من منتجات "كانون"، وسيتم عرض أعمالهن على المنصات الرسمية للشركة لإيصال مواهبهن وإبداعاتهن إلى جمهور أوسع.

وبهذه المناسبة، قالت  مي يوسف، مديرة الاتصال المؤسسي وخدمات التسويق في كانون أوروبا، الشرق الأسط ووتركيا ووسط وشمال أفريقيا: "كان من الملهم حقاً أن نشهد التحول المذهل والإنجازات البارزة التي حققتها المشاركات في الموسم الثاني من برنامج 'ومن هو إمباور'. لقد جسدت مثابرتهن وإبداعهن وتطورهن المهني جوهر فلسفتنا المؤسسية 'كيوسي' (Kyosei)، والتي تعني 'العيش والعمل معاً من أجل الصالح العام'. ونحن فخورون بأننا ساهمنا في تزويدهن بالمهارات والثقة التي تؤهلهن للريادة في مجالاتهن، والمضي قدماً نحو بناء مجتمعات أكثر قوةً وترابطاً".

وخلال كلمتها في الحفل الختامي، أشادت نادين حلبي، مديرة تطوير الأعمال في مجلس سيدات أعمال دبي، بالنجاح الباهر الذي حققه البرنامج، وقالت: "مع اختتام الموسم الثاني من برنامج 'ومن هو إمباور' نشعر بفخر كبير بما اكتسبته المشاركات من مهارات عملية وثقة عالية. وتُعد هذه المبادرة، بالشراكة مع 'كانون'، خطوة محورية في تمكين المرأة بالأدوات اللازمة للتميز والريادة في المشهد المتطور لقطاعي الطباعة والتصوير . ويؤكد مجلس سيدات أعمال دبي التزامه المستمر برعاية هذه المواهب، لضمان أن يصبحن رائدات ومبتكرات يُسهمن في تشكيل مستقبل هذه القطاعات".

أبرز محطات وإنجازات البرنامج

نجح الموسم الثاني من برنامج "ومن هو إمباور" في تحقيق شعاره "تسريع العمل" من خلال ثلاثة محاور تدريبية شاملة:

محور التصوير الفوتوغرافي: أتقنت المشاركات مبادئ التصوير الفوتوغرافي، وتقنيات السرد البصري، والمهارات العملية في التصوير، وذلك بإشراف خورخي فيراري، وهو مصور رائد للألعاب والأحداث الرياضية والتجارية، وسفير لشركة "كانون".

محور صناعة المحتوى: قدّمه جون روز ميركا، صانع المحتوى المحترف المقيم في دبي، وتناول هذا المحور أساسيات إنشاء المحتوى البصري والمرئي، وتقنيات التحرير، وأساليب تحقيق الدخل من المحتوى.

محور الطباعة: اكتسبت المشاركات رؤى قيّمة حول اتجاهات قطاع الطباعة، وتطبيقات الطباعة الرقمية، وفرص الريادة في هذا المجال، وذلك بإشراف أيمن علي، مدير التسويق (قطاع الأعمال) لدى كانون الشرق الأوسط.

اختُتم البرنامج بعرض  تقديمي للمشاريع النهائية، وتم تكريم  أربع مشاركات لأدائهن المتميز عبر مختلف محاور البرنامج، وهن:  وداد طبارة، مستشارة الأعمال في شركة وداد حمادة، والتي حصلت على المركز الأول في محور التصوير الفوتوغرافي نظراً لبراعتها التقنية المتفردة في مجال السرد البصري؛ وكاميلا كاسكيو، المديرة التجارية في شركة Dubai AcceleRated Tech، والتي تميزت في محور المحتوى. كما تم تكريم مشاركتين في محور الطباعة، هما: رشا مسلّم، الرئيس التنفيذي لشركة Next Gen of Immunology (NGIg1 DMCC)، التي حازت المركز الأول، تقديراً لرؤيتها الريادية وفهمها العميق للفرص في قطاع الطباعة؛ بالإضافة إلى إليزابيث توماس، الرئيس التنفيذي والمدير التنفيذي للشؤون التسويقية في شركة Pets Oasis LLC، التي حلّت في المركز الثاني.

تأثير البرنامج والالتزام المستقبلي

امتد البرنامج الشامل على مدار شهرين، وتضمّن جلسات نظرية وعملية، اكتسبت خلالها المشاركات خبرة عملية باستخدام أحدث معدات التصوير والطباعة من "كانون". وإلى جانب المهارات التقنية، عززت المبادرة فرص التواصل والتوجيه التي ستواصل إفادة المشاركات طوال مسيرتهن المهنية.

ويعكس التعاون بين "كانون الشرق الأوسط" ومجلس سيدات أعمال دبي التزاماً مشتركاً بتعزيز مشاركة المرأة في مجتمع الأعمال، ولا سيما في القطاعات التي تعتمد على التكنولوجيا. كما تنسجم هذه المبادرة مع مساعي دولة الإمارات لبناء مجتمعات أقوى، وتدعم رؤيتها لتحقيق النمو الاقتصادي الشامل.

وجاء نجاح الموسم الثاني من برنامج "ومن هو إمباور" امتداداً للأساس المتين الذي أرسته نسخته الأولى، مع التخطيط حالياً لإطلاق  الموسم الثالث، والذي من المتوقع أن يصل إلى عدد أكبر من النساء وتمكينهن في جميع أنحاء المنطقة.

لمزيد من المعلومات حول برنامج "ومن هو إمباور"، يرجى زيارة الموقع الإلكتروني:

https://en.canon-me.com/women-who-empower/

التعليقات على الصور:

الصورة : المشاركات في الموسم الثاني من برنامج "ومن هو إمباور"، إلى جانب مسؤولين تنفيذيين من "كانون" وممثلين عن مجلس سيدات أعمال دبي، في حفل توزيع الجوائز الذي أقيم مؤخراً في غرف دبي

Techvillage 2025 Connects 36 Startup Founders and 26 Global Investors in Moldova

 

 

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Chișinău, Moldova, September 18, 2025 – Moldovan village Butuceni welcomed 36 startup founders (pre-seed stage) and 26 investors (VCs, Family Office, Angels)  at TechVillage 2025. The event brought together startups, investors and ecosystem builders from across the European Union, Western Balkans, and Eastern Partnership countries. The attendees spent 3 days dedicated to meaningful conversations, networking, cultural activities and cross-border collaboration all in a setting designed to inspire trust, reflection, and long-term partnerships. 

Real Conversations, Real Connections

Unlike traditional tech conferences, TechVillage was built around a simple but powerful idea: create an environment where founders and investors can have real conversations and build long-term partnerships. And it happened. Participants spent three days pitching, mentoring, and connecting through curated 180+ 1:1 meetings and fireside talks on fundraising, growth, and international expansion. The event was designed to remove distractions and create space for strategic thinking and meaningful collaboration. Immediately after the event, 8 deals are being negotiated.  

“TechVillage 2025 has shown that Moldova is not only a country of opportunities but also a place where ideas, people, and cultures meet to create value. By bringing together founders and investors from across Europe and beyond, we are building a bridge between Moldova’s entrepreneurial talent and the global innovation community. Our Government is committed to supporting such initiatives, because every connection made here means new jobs, stronger companies, and a more competitive economy for Moldova. TechVillage is more than an event – it is a signal that Moldova is ready to play an active role in shaping the regional and European innovation ecosystem”,

said Doina Nistor, Deputy Prime Minister, Minister of Economic Development and Digitalization of the Republic of Moldova.

‘’We are proud to support events such as TechVillage, which serve as a valuable platform for collaboration and meaningful engagement between startup founders and investors from across the region and beyond. This event stands out as a significant milestone for Moldova’s increasing visibility in the international innovation arena, offering a unique opportunity for actors of the national startup ecosystem to effectively connect with counterparts from around the world. By facilitating cross-border cooperation, it fosters the exchange of innovative ideas and expertise, strengthening the national innovation network and its ties with the European and global startup ecosystems.’’, 

said Thibault Charlet, Policy Officer, Digital and Economic Development, Directorate-General for Neighbourhood and Enlargement Negotiations (DG NEAR), European Commission

“There are many events that bring together investors and startups, but not many are doing what TechVillage is doing—bringing people from different countries and ecosystems to one of the most beautiful landscapes in Moldova. This is why we at EU4Innovation East have decided to support this event: it is exactly matching our objective of bringing together different ecosystems, making sure that startups and investors make connections and laying the ground for future investments.’’,

mentioned Charles Mathiaux, Project Deputy Director, EU4Innovation East.

“TechVillage 2025 was the most authentic event I have participated in for a long time. It created genuine relationships between investors and startups, clarified expectations on both sides, and offered a rare chance to experience Moldova’s countryside alongside with tech know-how. What stood out to me was how naturally cultural heritage blended with entrepreneurial ambition—this combination sparked conversations that went deeper than investment terms and turned into shared visions for the future. That is what makes this gathering unique and memorable.” 

Stella Jemna, Country Representative for Moldova at Ukraine-Moldova American Enterprise Fund. 

“Helvetas, through OPTIM Project, is proud to support TechVillage as Moldova's tech ecosystem reaches new levels of excellence. We see tremendous potential in our local innovators, and events like this are essential for connecting Moldovan ingenuity with global opportunities. The future of innovation is collaborative, and Moldova is ready to be a key player in that future.”, 

mentioned Evghenia Snitco, Deputy Team Leader, OPTIM Project.

“TechVillage confirms that Moldova is becoming a meeting point where regional collaboration comes to life, bringing together startups and investors from over 10 countries. By supporting entrepreneurs, we are investing not only in new ideas and jobs but also in the competitiveness and stability of the region. We are proud to be strategic partners of this event and to contribute to turning local potential into international success stories.”,

said Sergiu Rabii, Director Innovate Moldova Programme.

A Strong Regional and International Presence

The event gathered early-stage and growth-stage startups from Moldova, Ukraine, Armenia, Romania, Bulgaria, Georgia, North Macedonia, Poland, and other countries across the region. They were joined by investors and venture capitalists from Estonia, Romania, Czech Republic, Slovenia and angel investors from the Republic of Moldova. Among the VC that attended the event are: BADideas.fundSilicon GardensEstonian Business Angel Association (EstBAN)Presto Tech HorizonsPurple VenturesTerminus VCAngel Investor Club of Armenia, Insight Partners, Fortech Investments, Founders Bridge, N1 Ventures, Nomadic Minds, Catalyst RomaniaJ&T VenturesSparking Capitalu.ventures

“Events like TechVillage are critical because they bridge ecosystems that do not often have the chance to meet. Europe needs more cross-border collaboration, and gatherings like this allow ideas, capital, and talent to move more freely. It is not just about pitching, it is about building long-term trust and relationships. After all, it takes a village to raise your startup.”,

mentioned Nare Gevorgyan, CEO of Angel Investor Club of Armenia

TechVillage: an opportunity to showcase Moldova's talent and culture

TechVillage 2025 showcased the country as a rising player in the regional innovation and investment landscape. With its blend of strong local talent, cultural depth, and strategic positioning, Moldova proved it can host high-quality, results-driven events that stand out in the crowded startup scene.

TechVillage 2025 showcases a dynamic Moldova, where tradition meets innovation. Bringing together promising startups and international investors in Butuceni confirms Moldova’s role as a regional hub for technology and investment. At Invest Moldova, we are committed to turning these connections into lasting partnerships with real impact for our economy and communities.”,

affirmed Natalia Bejan, General Director at Invest Moldova Agency.

“TechVillage proved that Moldova is more than a stopover, but an emerging  destination for innovation. What began with skepticism ended in confidence, as founders and investors found common ground to connect, collaborate, and shape future deals.”,

said Renata Ungureanu, CEO of XY Partners. 

What’s Next

The organizers are already preparing for TechVillage 2026, with plans to deepen regional partnerships and grow international interest. Founders and investors interested in future editions can learn more at: www.techvillage.md

TechVillage is organised by XY Partners, with support from the EU4Innovation East project, funded by the European Union, co-funded by the French Government and implemented by Expertise France; in partnership with the Ukraine-Moldova American Enterprise Fund, the Swiss Government through Helvetas, and the Innovate Moldova Programme funded by Sweden.

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