Programs
MEED Foundation’s primary focus is regional development. By identifying deficiencies in key infrastructures and developing practical and implementable solutions we aim to foster sustainable economic growth. Through MEED Foundation’s Programs we work to ensure that decision makers in the public and private sectors and citizens are equipped with the necessary tools and knowledge to achieve this goal.
Information Capacity Building
Like many countries in the global South, Iraq grapples with
substantial data gaps. These data deficiencies pose significant
challenges for decision-makers, impeding their ability to
effectively plan, execute, and monitor policies aimed at regional
development. Furthermore, resources and time are misallocated when
decisions are made based on perceptions and anecdotal information
rather than reliable data.
The prevalent data scene in Iraq can be characterized as below:
- Readily available data is difficult to access due to legal, regulatory, and technological limitations.
- Available data can often be outdated, inaccurate or require extensive cleaning.
- Datasets do not exist in important sectors and metrics.
- Poor understanding of and adoption of data science within the public and private sectors.
Data Revolution Initiative
Recognising these challenges, MEED Foundation has launched the Data Revolution Initiative aimed at developing information capacity and bridging data gaps to enable evidence-based decision-making processes within Iraq and the Kurdistan Region.
Technology & Innovation
New technologies are increasingly transforming the way we work, live,
and interact with one another, which is why we are committed to
fostering the development of smart solutions to enhance regional
progress.
By leveraging innovative technologies, we can address critical
development and planning challenges more effectively. This includes
deploying sensors for people counting and demographic analysis,
monitoring air and water quality, and optimizing city planning in
areas like waste management, road maintenance, parking, and
transportation infrastructure. Additionally, mobile and online
applications, along with the Internet of Things (IoT) for the seamless
interconnectivity of devices, play a crucial role.
As partners of the SmartSuli.com portal, we actively invite proposals
for innovative solutions to specific challenges and proudly support
the development and implementation of these smart initiatives.
Economic Diversification
Iraq’s economy is highly vulnerable, heavily reliant on oil exports
and susceptible to global price fluctuations. As a net importer of
many essential goods and household products, the country is also
exposed to currency instability. With the oil sector contributing a
significant portion of national income, Iraq’s economic stability is
at the mercy of volatile global markets. This dependence is further
strained by the adverse impacts of climate change, which threaten
agriculture, the country’s second-largest economic sector.
Diversifying the economy is more critical now than ever. MEED
Foundation actively contributes to these efforts by collecting and
analysing data on local economics to support regional development
and enhance local market resilience. By generating insights into key
economic trends and challenges, MEED Foundation helps inform public
sector policy, supporting effective decision-making to drive
economic diversification and long-term sustainability.
Market Studies and Analysis
Conducting market studies in key sectors with potential for growth such as agriculture and tourism to identify ways to grow and invest in such sectors. Generating new data and information on key markets and sectors and making data available to interested stakeholders to drive investment and development.
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