From Sulaymaniyah to the world: reflections from the International Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum in Kurdistan.
One of the most powerful enablers of innovation is an ecosystem where startups find their voice, SMEs push for growth, and support organisations underpin the entire journey. I was fortunate to witness exactly that in Sulaymaniyah, during the International Innovation and Entrepreneurship Forum organised by The Foundation — a leading force for entrepreneurship and innovation in the Kurdistan Region of Iraq.
The event was a reminder of why the mission of supporting startups and SMEs matters so deeply. The conversations I witnessed — between policymakers, founders, investors, and support organisations — were substantive and action-oriented. Not theoretical. Not aspirational in the hollow sense. Genuinely committed to change.
When ecosystems thrive, entire economies rise. That’s not just a phrase. It’s something I saw in action in Sulaymaniyah.
My appreciation goes to His Excellency Qubad Talabani, Deputy Prime Minister of the Kurdistan Region, for his leadership in creating policies that support entrepreneurship. And to Safeen Ghafour for the kind invitation. I was also deeply moved to meet Sherri Kraham Talabany and Tanya Gilly Khailany, Co-Founders of the SEED Foundation, whose dedication to social development is making a tangible difference to real lives.
Through my work with NINIV, I focus on helping startups and SMEs define their strategy, strengthen their brand, and scale into new markets. This forum reaffirmed why that work matters — and why the commitment to doing it well is worth every effort.