Iraq and Germany’s GIZ Sign Agreement to Accelerate Digital Transformation and Support SMEs

Iraq’s Development Fund has signed a new cooperation agreement with Germany’s Agency for International Cooperation (GIZ) to strengthen digital transformation and environmental development initiatives across the country.

Mohammed al-Najjar, Head of the Iraq Development Fund, said the partnership aims to expand job opportunities, empower youth, and support small and medium-sized businesses. The agreement includes training programs and loan facilities for young people in tech and environmental sectors, helping them build skills and secure financing to scale their businesses. It also seeks to mobilize additional funding for larger national projects and foster a specialized digital market in Iraq.

Al-Najjar emphasized that the agreement establishes a strong foundation for advancing Iraq’s digital ecosystem, boosting entrepreneurship, and stimulating economic recovery. GIZ – which has invested over $1 billion in Iraq through grants since 2014 – continues to play a vital role in rebuilding communities, supporting displaced populations, and promoting economic development through European-backed initiatives.