On October 1, USAID’s Libya Economic Acceleration Project (LEAP), in partnership with local business development expert SuperNovae, held its first-ever Demo Day in Tripoli. This event provided a platform for budding entrepreneurs to pitch their businesses to banks, investors, and potential customers, fostering a crucial network for Libya’s emerging business sector.
After completing four months of intensive business development training through USAID, seven startups were ready to showcase their ventures. During the networking session, several participants received offers of free marketing support and serious inquiries from banks and larger enterprises. The Demo Day marks the first time businesses from one Libyan city have connected with investors from another through a formal matchmaking event, bridging geographic and economic divides.
Following the success in Tripoli, a second Demo Day will take place in Sebha during the week of October 7, where another group of seven startups will pitch their ideas to local investors and businesses. By linking Libyan startups with key investors, USAID is not only fostering economic development, but also reducing the economic marginalization of entrepreneurs, particularly in southern Libya. Initiatives like these are vital steps toward building a thriving and inclusive economy that benefits all Libyans.
LEAP
