The Islamic Development Bank (IsDB) Group successfully concluded
the 5th IsDB Group Startups & Innovation Pitch Competition 2026
during the IsDB Group Annual Meetings and Private Sector Forum held
in Baku, Azerbaijan.
Organized under the theme “Empowering Innovation, AI,
Finance, Trade, and Entrepreneurship Across OIC Markets”,
the competition brought together entrepreneurs, innovators,
investors, policymakers, and development partners from across IsDB
Member Countries to showcase innovative solutions addressing key
development challenges.
The 2026 edition attracted more than 220 startup
applications across six strategic innovation tracks:
Artificial Intelligence & Deep Tech, AgriTech & Food Security,
FinTech & Cybersecurity, Sustainability & Climate, Supply Chain &
Smart Cities, and Human Development & Health. Following a rigorous
evaluation process, selected startups participated in a three-day
Bootcamp in Baku, receiving mentorship, investment-readiness
training, and pitch coaching from leading local and international
experts.
The competition culminated in the Global Demo
Day, where twelve finalist startups presented their
innovations before an international jury comprising representatives
from government institutions, development organizations, venture
capital firms, and entrepreneurship networks.
Following the jury's deliberations, the competition concluded
with the recognition of three outstanding startups, each
demonstrating exceptional innovation and impact across key
strategic sectors.
The First Place Champion award was granted to
BIOSHELL, represented by Mr. Gurban
Davudov, in the Sustainability, Climate &
Infrastructure track. BIOSHELL was recognized for its
innovative approach and strong potential to contribute to
sustainable development and environmental resilience.
The Second Place Champion distinction was
awarded to Bayuti, represented by Mr.
Anouar Adham, under the FinTech, Digital Payments &
Cybersecurity track. Bayuti impressed the jury with its
forward-thinking financial solutions and commitment to advancing
secure digital ecosystems.
The Third Place Champion honoured went to
Park Hub Baku, represented by Mr. Orman
Sultany, competing in the Supply Chain & Smart
Cities track. The startup was acknowledged for its
cutting-edge solutions addressing urban mobility and smart
infrastructure challenges.
These winning startups exemplify innovation, entrepreneurial
excellence, and the transformative potential of technology-driven
solutions across diverse industries.
In addition, The six startups were recognized as Track
Laureates:
- AIRT – Artificial Intelligence & Deep
Tech - Smart Sagro – AgriTech & Food Security
- Derad Network – Supply Chain & Smart
Cities - Climasel – Sustainability, Climate &
Infrastructure - Proedia – Human Development, Health & Social
Services - Mink Platform – FinTech, Digital Payments &
Cybersecurity
The winners were honored during an official Awards Ceremony
attended by senior IsDB Group leadership, representatives of the
Government of Azerbaijan, development partners, investors, and key
stakeholders from the innovation ecosystem.
The competition forms part of the IsDB Group's broader
commitment to promoting innovation-driven growth, strengthening
entrepreneurial ecosystems, supporting youth-led enterprises, and
fostering regional collaboration across Member Countries.
Through the IsDB Group Startups & Innovation Platform,
entrepreneurs gain access to mentorship, strategic partnerships,
investment opportunities, and international market exposure. As
innovation continues to play an increasingly important role in
economic transformation, the IsDB Group remains committed to
empowering the next generation of innovators and supporting
sustainable and inclusive development across the OIC region.
About the IsDB Group Startups & Innovation Pitch
Competition
The IsDB Group Startups & Innovation Pitch Competition is a
flagship initiative designed to identify, support, and accelerate
high-potential startups across IsDB Member Countries. Competition
provides entrepreneurs with opportunities to access technical
support, capacity-building, investment networks, and global
visibility while promoting innovation as a driver of sustainable
development and economic growth.
