Speed@BDD, a portfolio company of IM Capital, organized its first Demo Day, on Wednesday January 13, 2016, at the American University of Beirut (AUB), in the presence of more than 250 investors, officials, and media representatives. Six startups pitched their businesses and showcased their products after completing a 3-months long acceleration program. During Speed@BDD’s first acceleration cycle, each startup received $30,000 in investment to develop its idea in addition to free hosting, product and business development, accounting, legal services, and mentorship from key experts in various industries. Two startups were selected to join the “LebNet Ignite powered by Blackbox Connect” acceleration and mentorship program, for a unique Silicon Valley immersion experience. International best practices in entrepreneurship, business incubation and acceleration programs were presented together with ideas on how to develop the skills of technology entrepreneurs. The forum was an opportunity to meet and exchange with local and international stakeholders in the national innovation and entrepreneurial ecosystem including policy makers, funding agencies and practitioners to debate the requirements needed to deliver effective innovation and entrepreneurship through incubation and acceleration programs.