BisB unveils ‘Innovation Studio’ initiative with Visa and Innovate for Bahrain

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Bahrain Islamic Bank (BisB), the leading provider of innovative Islamic financial solutions for simplifying money matters in the Kingdom of Bahrain, has announced the launch of Innovation Studio, a pioneering initiative developed in partnership with Visa and Innovate for Bahrain. The programme is designed to accelerate the growth of Bahrain’s emerging fashion and jewellery designers by equipping them with the tools and expertise they need to turn their ideas into established brands.

Began accepting applications on October 26, 2025. The three-month programme will offer participants practical workshops, one-on-one expert mentorship, along with access to business banking solutions and financial advisory from BisB’s team to help grow their ventures and compete on an international scale.

Throughout the programme, ten designers will be shortlisted to pitch their concepts to a panel of judges. Six finalists will then present their collections at the Grand Showcase before industry leaders and potential collaborators. The top two participants from each track, will receive grand prizes featuring global exposure opportunities, including an all-expenses-paid trip to meet renowned designer Reem Acra in New York for the winning fashion designer, and a mentorship experience at the Van Cleef & Arpels factory in the United Kingdom for the top jewellery designer.

Participants will be evaluated by a panel of experts who will assess the creativity, originality, and sustainability of their designs, along with their vision for growth and ability to position their brands in competitive markets. The process aims to spotlight designers who combine innovation with a clear sense of purpose and commercial potential.

Ms. Fatema AlAlawi, Chief Executive Officer of BisB, stated, “We are proud to support Bahrain’s creative entrepreneurs through practical opportunities that connect innovation with tangible market growth. Innovation Studio combines financial empowerment, coaching, and exposure to help designers transition confidently from concept to commerce. This partnership aligns with our vision to nurture homegrown talent and reinforce Bahrain’s position as a regional hub for creative enterprise.”

Mr. Ahmed ElKaffass, Visa’s Country Manager in Bahrain, commented “Through the innovation Studio, Visa is championing Bahrain’s creative entrepreneurs by turning their vision into opportunity and empowering them to grow locally and shine globally” From his end, Bader Sater, CEO of Bahrain FinTech Bay; under which Innovate for Bahrain operates; added: “The Innovation Studio program is more than an acceleration program; it is a collaborative platform designed to position Bahrain as a hub for creative industries and nurture the next generation of designers. By bridging innovation, creativity, and entrepreneurship, the program empowers Bahrain’s fashion and jewelry designers to transform their ideas into sustainable businesses.”

This programme reaffirms BisB’s commitment to advancing entrepreneurship, fostering innovation across sectors, and contributing to Bahrain’s longterm economic development. Applications for Innovation Studio are now open to Bahraini nationals aged 21 and above who hold an active BisB Visa card, through [https://www. bisb.com/en/jewelery-designers-program]