The launch of the Orange Economy Year, a national initiative celebrating the power of creativity as a driver of economic growth, innovation and sustainable development, has been announced by the United Nations Industrial Development Organisation’s (UNIDO) Investment and Technology Promotion Office (ITPO) in Bahrain, in collaboration with the RAK Art Foundation.

The initiative, announced during a press conference at the RAK Art Foundation on Sunday, reinforces the Kingdom’s commitment to fostering innovation, cultural leadership, and creative entrepreneurship globally.

The Orange Economy, also known as the creative economy, encompasses the art, culture, media, design, technology, and heritage industries. The sector is a proven catalyst for inclusive growth and economic diversification, contributing more than USD2 trillion to global GDP and supporting 50 million jobs worldwide.

A central pillar of the initiative is the UNIDO-ITPO Bahrain Global Call 2025: Creative Orange Economy, a competition inviting entrepreneurs, artists, and innovators to submit creative and sustainable business ideas. This competition is open to participants worldwide, encouraging diverse and inclusive participation across three main categories: Eco-friendly Production, Digital Innovation, Cultural Heritage and a special category for school and university students to foster young talent.

Applications are open until September 1 and selected participants will be recognised at an awards ceremony in December. The initiative offers access to mentorship, exposure and potential global partnerships.

The Orange Economy Year will also feature conferences, exhibitions, community engagement activities, and workshops focused on fostering innovation, preserving cultural heritage, and connecting Bahrain’s creative talent with international markets.

In collaboration with UNIDO, the RAK Art Foundation will play a central role by activating its educational arm, The Art Station, as a dynamic platform for creation, learning, and cross-cultural exchange.

“We are delighted to support the UNIDO in launching the Orange Economy Year,” said Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, founder of the RAK Art Foundation.

“This collaboration reflects the RAK Art Foundation’s ongoing mission to support local talent, promote cultural dialogue, and position creativity at the core of sustainable economic development.

“Through The Art Station, our educational arm, we aim to empower Bahrain’s creative community by providing access to mentorship, international networks, and professional opportunities. The Art Station will catalyse nurturing creative entrepreneurs, curating exhibitions, and hosting workshops and incubation activities aligned with the Global Call initiative.

“By bridging creativity, entrepreneurship, and technology, this collaboration will help strengthen Bahrain’s position as a vibrant and globally connected hub for the Orange Economy.”

Dr. Hashim Hussein, Head of UNIDO-ITPO Bahrain, added: “It is our distinct honour to collaborate with Shaikh Rashid bin Khalifa Al Khalifa, a visionary and passionate advocate for the transformative power of art.

“Our collaboration with the RAK Art Foundation marks the inception of our initiatives, with further endeavors underway. This collaboration underscores the significant role of creativity in fostering economic growth, innovation, and sustainable development.

“By promoting cultural leadership and nurturing creative entrepreneurship, we aspire to position Bahrain as a global epicentre for the Orange Economy, thereby demonstrating the Kingdom’s dedication to inclusive growth and economic diversification.”

GO: Visit https://itpo-manama.unido.org/global-call-2025 for more information.