NBB Wraps Up 2024 Digital Banking Challenge : Two outstanding teams announced as winners

TDT | Manama
Email : editor@newsofbahrain.com

The National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) has successfully concluded the second edition of the NBB Digital Banking Challenge 2024, which was organised in collaboration with Bahrain Fintech Bay (BFB).

The six-week programme empowered students aged 18-24 to develop forward-thinking, sustainable digital banking solutions in line with BFB and NBB’s commitment to digital transformation and sustainability.

Throughout the challenge, participants attended expert-led workshops covering key topics such as digital innovation, financial technology, and customer engagement strategies. The interactive sessions helped them enhance their technical and entrepreneurial acumen and be on the right path to becoming future leaders in the evolving fintech sector.

Out of the six shortlisted teams, two outstanding groups emerged as winners of the challenge after presenting their solutions to a panel of industry experts. The frontrunners were selected based on stringent criteria that included ESG goals, sustainability, customer-centricity, creativity, and the potential impact of their submissions on the banking sector. Cash prizes and exclusive internship opportunities at NBB and Bahrain Fintech Bay were also awarded to the winning teams. Additionally, they received a three-month incubation period at BFB, where they will have access to expert mentorship and resources to refine their prototypes into business-ready solutions.

For his part, Razi Amin, Group Chief Technology Officer at NBB, said, “The Digital Banking Challenge exemplifies our dedication to empowering emerging talent to lead digital innovation by channelling their ingenuity and expertise. By providing a platform for youth to showcase their solutions and gain industry recognition, we aim to cultivate a flourishing ecosystem that aligns with Bahrain’s digital transformation goals and nurtures the next generation of fintech leaders.”

Commenting on the occasion, Suzy AlZeerah, Chief Operating Officer at Bahrain FinTech Bay, added, “We are proud to have partnered with NBB for the second edition of the NBB Digital Banking Challenge and are incredibly impressed by the creativity and innovation displayed by the participants. Our ecosystem is defined by our younger generation, and with all the advancements taking place in the industry, young Bahrainis can now fast-track their ideas through such initiatives.”