Our Story
Founded by local experts, inspired by global change.
NABU is an independent, non-governmental and non-partisan social enterprise based in Baghdad and working across Iraq, founded by a group of youth committed to driving sustainable development and inclusive economic growth. The name NABU is inspired by the ancient Mesopotamian god of wisdom — symbolising knowledge, insight, and informed decision-making at the core of our work.
We specialise in research, community engagement, programme design, field implementation, training, and communications — delivering context-driven solutions that respond to local needs while aligning with international best practices.
Through our work, we support communities, institutions, donors, and private companies in designing and implementing impactful programmes across climate resilience, cultural heritage, livelihoods, social cohesion, and youth and women's empowerment. By combining local insight with global standards, NABU ensures that every intervention is practical, scalable, and results-oriented.
Unlike traditional NGOs, NABU combines the efficiency and flexibility of a commercial entity with the values and mission of a non-profit. This hybrid model allows us to deliver timely, cost-effective, and scalable solutions while ensuring that every intervention creates lasting impact for communities and partners.
Who We Work With
We partner with international donors and development agencies, UN bodies, international and local NGOs, government directorates, and private-sector companies. Our recent collaborators and clients include GIZ (on behalf of the German Federal Ministry, BMZ), the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), the Embassy of France in Iraq, Oxfam, the Iraqi Al-Firdaws Society, the Chabayish Organization for Environmental Tourism (COET), and private companies including DAMAC.
Where We Work
We are based in Baghdad and work across Iraq, with a particularly strong network and field presence in the southern governorates of Basra, Dhi Qar, Maysan, and Muthanna — including the Central Marshes (the Ahwar) and the Chabayish Marshlands. Our extensive local network of grassroots groups, experts, master craftspeople, and community leaders means we design programmes that are relevant, trusted, and sustainable — rooted in the communities they serve rather than imposed from outside.
Core Values
Integrity
We uphold transparency, ethical business practices, and accountability in everything we do.
Innovation
We leverage research, AI-driven insights, and creative problem-solving to design forward-thinking solutions.
Sustainability
We promote long-term economic and environmental resilience through responsible business models.
Empowerment
We champion the inclusion of youth and women in business, leadership, and workforce development.
Collaboration
We build strong partnerships with local and international organizations to create systemic change and amplify impact.