Egyptian Startups Win Trip to US Innovation Summit

Two Egyptian tech startups are heading to Maryland this May after winning a competition that connects global innovators with American investors and business opportunities.

Untap and Tijara Hub took top honors at the SelectUSA Tech Pitch Competition in Cairo, where 16 Egyptian entrepreneurs presented their business ideas to industry experts. Two other startups, Hiroy and Plan Q, received honorable mentions for their pitches.

The U.S. Embassy Cairo and the American University in Cairo's Venture Lab hosted the annual competition, which gives international startups a direct path to the SelectUSA Investment Summit. The winners will join thousands of entrepreneurs, investors, and business leaders gathering in National Harbor from May 3 to 6.

"These companies have the potential to drive transformative, real-world outcomes," said U.S. Chargé d'Affaires Evyenia Sidereas at the awards ceremony. She emphasized that connecting Egyptian talent with American tech entrepreneurs creates economic benefits for both countries.

The competition gave all 16 participants something valuable beyond prizes. They gained pitching experience and direct exposure to investors from organizations like FinBi Venture Capital, Alex Angels, and Entreprenelle.

The Ripple Effect

This program reflects a broader commitment to supporting tech entrepreneurship across borders. Previous Egyptian participants have successfully expanded their operations in the United States after attending the summit, opening doors for future innovators from the region.

The SelectUSA Tech program, run by the U.S. Department of Commerce, welcomes international startups that are less than 10 years old, employ fewer than 40 people, and generate under $10 million annually. Companies must demonstrate innovative technology products and concrete plans for entering or expanding in the American market.

While winning the Cairo competition earns startups a funded trip to the summit, any qualifying international entrepreneur can register independently. The program offers market entry guidance, investor connections, and networking opportunities designed to help promising tech companies scale globally.

Egypt's growing tech scene continues gaining international recognition, with local incubators like Mint Incubator, Den Venture, and Flat6Labs partnering to identify the country's most promising startups. These connections between Egyptian innovation and American investment create pathways for entrepreneurs ready to think bigger.