Leveraging TA and coordination through the SMART-BEE Program, the Palestinian Information Technology Association of Companies (PITA) held a groundbreaking General Assembly in June of 2023. Members voted to overhaul the organization’s internal policy and governance structure to better serve the rapidly evolving needs of the dynamic Palestinian ICT sector.

The new bylaws settled outstanding issues regarding membership, organizational structure and decision making, and internal elections, among many other issues. These changes will allow for greater inclusivity, equitable representation, and dynamism with provisions including but not limited to:

• Disambiguating the status of start-ups and providing them a path to “active member” status.
• Introducing the concept of a “supporting member” status for companies that are not ICT firms but do have a stake in the ICT sector, e.g., financial institutions, to hold a non-voting role in PITA.
• A restructuring of the Board of Directors to enable equitable representation of the regional interests of the West Bank vis a vis Gaza Strip IT firms.

Following the ratification, PITA held its first board member election based on these new bylaws. PITA has also drafted internal operational manuals and procedures with the support of a specialized consulting firm funded as a part of their Institutional Partnership with the SMART Project.

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“Since its inception, PITA has served as the encompassing hub for all Palestinian companies operating within the information and communications technology sector. Among the significant challenges PITA faced were the diverse specializations within its membership framework. Additionally, the sector's rapid growth, the emergence of new specializations, and PITA's role in advancing the sector presented complex challenges. Furthermore, there was a surge in demand from entrepreneurs to establish startups within this sector.

However, these very challenges presented PITA with an opportunity to fulfill its central role in advocating for, supporting, and driving the sector's advancement. It aimed to enhance its competitiveness and firmly position the sector on the nation's developmental map, contributing to the growth of the Palestinian economy.

The cornerstone for advancing the ICT sector lies in the development of its institutional governance environment. The recently updated manuals and bylaws have paved the way for PITA to proactively address the needs of this sector, champion the interests of its member companies, and create a nurturing environment that promotes capacity-building and competitiveness. This transformation doesn't solely benefit the ICT sector; it extends its positive influence to all associated industries. Moreover, it establishes a sustainable channel connecting startups, accelerators, and investors, both locally and internationally, including the Palestinian Diaspora. PITA's success story stands as a testament to its unwavering commitment to drive the growth and prosperity of Palestine's ICT landscape.”

Amani Muady

General Director

PITA