ITIDA chief says expanding tech ecosystem beyond Cairo boosts startups
ITIDA CEO Ahmed El-Zaher said building an integrated technology ecosystem is key to growing Egypt's ICT industry. Speaking at Techne Summit Cairo 2026, he said the agency works on skills, startups, freelancers, local tech firms, innovation, and attracting global companies. He added that extending the ecosystem beyond Cairo helps startups grow and compete regionally and internationally.
At Techne Summit Cairo 2026, ITIDA CEO Ahmed El-Zaher discussed Egypt's tech and entrepreneurship evolution with Techne Summit founder Tarek El-Kady. He described ITIDA's approach as linking talent, companies, entrepreneurs, and investors to local and global opportunities, while preparing for AI-driven shifts and digital infrastructure needs.
He traced government support over two decades, noting TIEC's 2010 launch as an early specialized incubator. The ecosystem now includes more venture capital funds, accelerators, incubators, major firms, and startups. With Cairo's base more mature, ITIDA is focusing on geographic gaps and reaching talent outside the capital.
Expanding Egypt's tech ecosystem beyond Cairo could broaden access to digital skills, jobs, and startup support for young professionals and founders in governorates. It may reduce concentration of investment and mentorship in the capital, though results depend on infrastructure, training quality, and market demand. Global firms and local tech firms might benefit from wider talent pools, while freelancers could gain more export opportunities.