The Michel Daher Foundation and the Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) are thrilled to announce the launch of TinkerLab, a game-changing program designed to uplift ideas or early-stage startups and fuel positive green/social impact in the Bekaa community!

A two-month entrepreneurship program, TinkerLab is tailor-made to empower and support future entrepreneurs in the Central, West Bekaa, and Baalbek El Hermel areas. Through comprehensive training, coaching, mentoring, and funding support, our aim to transform dreams into reality and nurture a thriving startup ecosystem.

This acceleration program aims to leverage the entrepreneurial potential of both Lebanese and Syrian refugees and promote economic empowerment, social integration, and self-sufficiency by providing aspiring entrepreneurs with the tools, resources, and support they need to start and grow successful businesses.

The project will support feasible and scalable ideas and early-stage startups, in particular social, creative, cultural enterprises, agriculture and food businesses, healthcare startups, and tech startups. 

Ten selected startups will each receive an amount of $850 in  cash grants to  further develop their idea/early-stage startup and enhance their entrepreneurial and business development mindset.

Why Apply

Expert Coaching
Get expert advice in idea validation, business development, and pitching.

Cash Funding
Receive a $850 cash grant for MVP development and early testing.

One-on-one Mentoring
Receive personalized support to refine your business concept.

Unique Learning Experience
Participate in expert-led workshops and skill development sessions.

Networking Opportunities
Connect with the startup ecosystem and expand your network.

Enriching Exchanges
Thrive in an environment that fosters collaboration and growth.

Who can apply

To be considered for the Tinkerlab program, applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

1- Operating a startup delivering social impact or committed to building a startup with a social impact
2- Having at least one co-founder residing full-time in Lebanon
3- Having a multidisciplinary and complementary team
4- Willing to commit to the 2-month acceleration program
5- Startups or entrepreneurs must be based in the Bekaa region
6- Priority will be given to teams that include females

How it works

After closing applications on August 28th, 2023, 15 selected teams will participate in a full-day hackathon. The aim is to prepare the selected startups to develop their ideas, enhance design thinking, and improve their business models and pitch skills.

One online info session on August 14th, 2023  to explain the program and its benefits.

One-day Hackathon on September 9th full of training, workshops, mentoring, & the opportunity to pitch your idea to a panel of experts at MDF premises (Transportation expenses covered).

Top 10  teams with the most relevant social or green solutions will be shortlisted to join 2-month acceleration phase and get all the business and technical support they need starting September 16th till the end of November.

Demo-Day on November 30th, 2023 the 10 startups or entrepreneurs will display their products, services, or business ideas to the public, including potential investors, media, and key players in the ecosystem.

Don't miss this incredible opportunity to take your business idea to the next level! Apply now and let TinkerLab be the catalyst for your entrepreneurial success.