At just 22, Hussein El Hajj embodies a generation that refuses to see limits where others see obstacles. Co-founder and CEO of HTech, his company develops AI-powered solutions and digital infrastructure for governments, institutions, and large organizations across the MENA region. A graduate of Saint Joseph University of Beirut, he remains deeply committed to nurturing local talent and contributing to a vision of technological growth rooted in his home country. Through initiatives like Code4Lebanon, he seeks not only to innovate, but to empower a new wave of changemakers.
1. Could you introduce yourself and tell us about the journey behind HTech?
I am Hussein El Hajj, CEO of HTech. My co-founder and I graduated from USJ in 2024, where we were both students and entrepreneurs. Through EC2, the Center for Competencies and Entrepreneurship at USJ, we developed the skills needed to build and manage a business, which led us to found HTech during our studies. What began as a simple idea has grown into a team of more than 20 people, all based in Lebanon and serving clients across the MENA region.
We have established partnerships with key institutions, including the Lebanese Army, with whom we led a full digital transformation and deployed their first AI solution. We also collaborate with universities such as USJ, AUB, and LAU, as well as with the Ministry of Technology and AI. In addition, we are leading several startups operating in both B2B and B2C models, with over 100 clients across the region and more than 100,000 users.
In partnership with the Ministry, we launched Code4Lebanon, a national initiative managed by HTech, aimed at engaging youth in high-impact projects. Our approach has always been to build from Lebanon and export innovation. Through Code4Lebanon, we seek to support young talent and contribute to meaningful public sector development.
2. As a young CEO and recent graduate, how did your academic choices shape your journey?
After obtaining my French baccalaureate, I was accepted into several universities in France, but I ultimately chose to stay in Lebanon and enroll at USJ. I hesitated between law and computer science, eventually choosing the latter with the ambition of building something of my own.
Although my goals were initially unclear, I was driven by a strong objective: not to graduate in search of a job, but to create something impactful and scalable beyond Lebanon. What first appeared as a limitation, staying in Lebanon, became an opportunity.
Throughout my studies, every decision, connection, and mentorship contributed to that goal. Today, our ambition is to grow HTech into a global company, developing advanced AI solutions that can compete internationally.
3. What challenges did you face when launching your company at such a young age?
Building a company at a young age in Lebanon comes with challenges, particularly in terms of credibility. Gaining the trust of institutions such as the Lebanese Army, ministries, and major organizations required persistence.
We focused on building credibility through action, delivering high-impact projects to demonstrate our capabilities. Once a solid foundation was established, we were able to scale our activities and generate revenue.
While the beginnings were demanding, the process has become more sustainable over time, supported by strong partnerships and growing trust.
4. What advice would you give to young people in Lebanon today?
Starting is always difficult, especially in a challenging economic context. Students often feel constrained by time and academic pressure.
In my experience, building something meaningful requires discipline and sacrifice. I dedicated early mornings and late nights to my company while managing my studies.
The key is to set a clear goal and remain committed to it. Lebanon is rich in talent, and with determination and the willingness to make sacrifices, it is possible to achieve impactful results even in difficult circumstances.
5. How did you find your co-founder, and what makes a strong partnership?
I was looking for someone who shared both my vision and my level of commitment. I found that in a colleague whose discipline, motivation, and work ethic stood out.
We quickly realized that we had the same ambition: to build something of our own rather than follow a conventional path. Today, we complement each other, Jalal leads the technical side as CTO, while I focus on business development.
A strong partnership is essential. Having someone who shares your vision and complements your skills is a major advantage when facing the challenges of entrepreneurship.
6. What are your ambitions for the future, both for yourself and for HTech?
USJ played a key role in my journey, particularly through mentorship and institutional support, which allowed us to develop our project alongside our studies.
Today, my focus is on growing HTech and expanding its impact. We are developing several products and technologies with strong potential.
Over the next five to ten years, our objective is to position HTech as a leading AI company building both high-impact solutions for governments and organizations, and scalable products for enterprises and consumers. At the same time, I aim to continue supporting Lebanese youth through initiatives like Code4Lebanon, helping them engage with real-world challenges and unlock their potential.
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