In a significant year for Lebanese entrepreneurship, the Talal and Madiha Zein AUB Innovation Park (Zein AUB iPark), the American University of Beirut’s flagship startup accelerator, has seen its startups achieve a wave of international recognition and expansion during the first half of 2025.
From the Gulf to Europe, Zein AUB iPark’s portfolio of early-stage ventures made notable appearances at leading innovation events, unlocking new markets, investments, and strategic collaborations.
The accelerator’s global journey began in February, when 14 of its startups were showcased at Web Summit Qatar—one of the largest tech gatherings in the Middle East. The event proved fruitful, as three startups—Zaker, Walleti, and DonaLeb—successfully incorporated in Qatar, laying the groundwork to access the local ecosystem and forge regional partnerships.
Momentum built quickly with an April Demo Day in Pafos, Cyprus, co-hosted by AUB Mediterraneo, Octopus Capital, and CrowdBase. The event provided Lebanese and regional entrepreneurs a rare platform to engage directly with EU-based investors and mentors. Encouraged by the reception, some startups began exploring incorporation within the EU, signalling a wider shift towards cross-border business strategies.
A week later in Limassol, several startups participated in the Elevate Bootcamp Demo Day. Among the standout ventures were Parency, a digital perinatal care platform co-founded by Ghina Hneini and Khalil Yaker, and DonaLeb, which focuses on corporate wellness solutions. Parency won the audience vote, while DonaLeb attracted fresh investor interest.
By late April, Zein AUB iPark hosted its flagship Demo Day at the Beirut Digital District, drawing more than 450 attendees. It proved to be a catalyst for startup growth: Walleti secured local investment, while Zaker formed a pilot partnership with a leading Lebanese university.
In May, the spotlight returned to Cyprus as eight Zein AUB iPark startups attended the Reflect Festival in Limassol, including Parency and DonaLeb. Both ventures made significant inroads: DonaLeb entered talks with a Cyprus-based healthcare provider, while Parency connected with EU mentors to support its Mediterranean expansion.
The accelerator’s most high-profile appearance came in June at VivaTech in Paris, Europe’s premier technology event. Zein AUB iPark co-organised the first official Lebanese Pavilion, inaugurated under the patronage of General Joseph Aoun. Five Lebanese startups showcased their innovations. DonaLeb secured a strategic partnership with a Parisian HR firm, while Walleti engaged in early-stage discussions with French investors.
The week also featured a diplomatic reception at the Résidence des Pins and bilateral meetings with Lebanese and French officials, further elevating the startups’ global positioning.
“Innovation flourishes where bold ideas meet the right opportunities,” said Dr Yousif Asfour, AUB’s Chief Innovation and Transformation Officer. “Every milestone this year has unlocked the next, proving the strength and adaptability of Lebanon’s entrepreneurial spirit.”
As 2025 progresses, Zein AUB iPark is poised to continue serving as a launchpad for Lebanon’s most promising startups—bridging Beirut’s talent with global opportunity.
