a cross-cultural bootcamp that combines venture-building with peacebuilding, empowering Jewish and Palestinian entrepreneurs to innovate together and scale impact-driven solutions.
Description
The 50:50 Startups Bootcamp was a two-week, fully funded incubator programme co-implemented by 50:50 Startups and SocialTech Lab, designed to support early-stage startup teams from Jewish and Palestinian backgrounds while embedding them in Cyprus’ unique peacebuilding and innovation ecosystem.
Held in Nicosia, Cyprus (27 October – 9 November 2024), the programme brought together 17 entrepreneurs for an intensive journey combining venture development, mentorship, study visits, and intercultural collaboration. Participants worked on transforming early-stage ideas into viable startup concepts, while engaging in dialogue, teamwork, and shared learning across cultural and national lines.
The bootcamp concluded with a Demo Day, where teams pitched their ventures, marking the culmination of a journey that blended entrepreneurship, social impact, and peacebuilding. The programme was delivered with the support of the Kingdom of the Netherlands and hosted at The Base by CyprusInno.
Structure of the Programme
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2-week intensive incubator, guiding teams from idea validation to early investment readiness
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Advanced venture-building workshops covering validation, business models, financial planning, and fundraising
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Expert mentorship from industry leaders, startup practitioners, and peacebuilding experts
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Study visits and business tours exposing participants to regional innovation ecosystems
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Collaborative work sessions focused on team development, pitching, and execution
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Final Demo Day, where teams presented their ventures to a professional audience
Programme Impact
Supported 17 cross-cultural early-stage entrepreneurs
in developing startup and social venture concepts
Strengthened cross-cultural
collaboration and trust through shared venture-building experiences
Equipped participants with
practical tools in validation, finance, storytelling, and fundraising
Created lasting networks between
founders, mentors, and international ecosystems
Positioned Cyprus as a neutral innovation
and peacebuilding hub for cross-border entrepreneurship
Continued acceleration
with top teams advancing to international incubation pathways
Ready to create impact together?
We’re always looking to partner with organisations and changemakers who share our vision for a more inclusive and innovative future. Book a call with us to explore how we can collaborate and grow impact side by side.