Business start-ups in northern Iraq

The BEAT (Bavarian Entrepreneurship and Advanced Training) project supports start-ups in the Kurdistan region and thus ensures stability and prospects.

In cooperation with KGE Ltd., bfz has been setting up a consultancy network in the Kurdistan region in northern Iraq since 2017 to support local start-ups. In the process, business start-up consultants are trained locally, in order to coach and advise interested founders in the course of developing their own business. Through a microcredit fund, the project also supports the founders by providing financial support at the start. A special feature of the project is that Bavarian entrepreneurs are involved in short-term assignments and pass on valuable experience and expertise to the Kurdish founders.

Lack of career opportunities

In northern Iraq there are usually few career prospects for young people. The existing problems are further compounded by the migration wave of recent years and the resulting increase in job seekers. The education system is characterized by a focus on employment in the public sector. In addition, there are only a few local companies and many people lack the basic knowledge to set up their own businesses.

Setting up a business as a promising alternative

Strengthening the entrepreneurial spirit therefore offers the greatest opportunities for the Kurdistan region, alongside the general promotion of the private sector. From the initial idea to the creation of a business model to financing, start-up and further growth - the local bfz consultants support the founders in all steps.The project thus makes a tangible contribution to the employment situation and stabilisation of the economic situation in northern Iraq. By including the experiences of Bavarian entrepreneurs, the project not only makes an important technical contribution, but also creates a basis for future economic relations with the Kurdistan region.

The proven three pillars at a glance

1. Training of local business start-up consultants by German experts. BEAT supports the employment employs three selected consultants with local partner institutions in the target regions to work locally as business start-up consultants.
2. Bavarian entrepreneurs personally contribute their expertise on site in the form of consulting assignments. Direct contacts promote economic relations with Kurdistan
3. Advising potential start-ups. A micro-fund is used to support selected start-ups in setting up their business.

The BEAT project in Kurdistan started in February 2017 and runs until July 2019, with the Bavarian State Chancellery providing the financing. Phase 2 of the BEAT-Project in Kurdistan: 01.07.2019 - 30.06.2021.

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