Planning and Economic Development Minister Ahmed Rostom affirmed that Egypt's hosting of the third edition of the "Global Entrepreneurship Festival" reflects its leading regional position in the Middle East and Africa in the entrepreneurship sector. He noted that the government, through the Ministerial Group for Entrepreneurship headed by Deputy Prime Minister for Economic Affairs Hussein Issa, is closely following this file to provide all forms of support to startups and enhance their ability to grow in order to contribute to the national economy.
Rostom made the remarks on Sunday, August 9, 2026, during an expanded meeting to follow up on preparations for Egypt's hosting of the third edition of the festival, scheduled to be launched in November, in light of the government's strong focus on this vital sector due to its key role in driving economic growth, providing innovative solutions to development challenges and attracting venture capital investments.
The minister pointed to the continuous follow-up by the prime minister on the entrepreneurship file and directives to ensure coordination and integration among various concerned bodies to support this important sector. He explained that the meeting emphasized the importance of coordination among participating entities to ensure the festival is held in the best possible manner, reflecting Egypt's significant potential in terms of promising youth talent and attractive investment opportunities.
Rostom highlighted that the festival will witness broad participation from thousands of attendees from Africa and around the world, creating a regional and international platform that underscores the pivotal role of startups in leading development. For her part, Head of the Technical Secretariat of the National Alliance for Civil Development Work and Secretary-General of the festival Nabila Makram said the event has received unprecedented interest from entrepreneurs and startups across Africa.
She noted that the festival organizers are working in continuous coordination with the Egyptian government across various areas to ensure the success of this important international event. The third edition of the Global Entrepreneurship Festival is scheduled to take place in Cairo from November 6 to 8.
The event is considered one of the largest international gatherings specializing in entrepreneurship, with this edition aiming to attract more than 10,000 participants from over 70 countries, alongside more than 100 exhibitors and 60 international speakers, including government leaders and experts in economics and investment.
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