The “Bahraini Model for Entrepreneurship and Innovation,” a successful framework developed by the Bahrain-based Investment and Technology Promotion Office (ITPO) of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), has achieved significant international recognition and adoption. The model, designed to foster economic development by empowering youth and women, has been exported to numerous countries, cementing Bahrain’s role as a leader in creating effective entrepreneurial ecosystems.
A Proven Framework For Global Adoption
The Bahraini Model has been lauded for its ability to provide a comprehensive support system for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). According to Dr. Hashim Hussein, Head of the UNIDO ITPO in Bahrain, the model’s success lies in its unique approach of integrating crucial non-financial services, such as mentorship and advisory, with access to financial services. This holistic method addresses a common challenge in developing economies and has proven effective in driving economic empowerment. The key to successful implementation in any country is the presence of a strong local partner committed to this vision.
The International Rollout
The proven success of the Bahraini Model has led to its international expansion, with plans for implementation in at least seven countries, including Lebanon, Egypt, Nigeria, Afghanistan, Sudan, Italy, and Morocco.
The rollout in Morocco serves as a prominent example, with the launch of an Entrepreneurship and Innovation Center in Casablanca. This was established in cooperation with the Mohammed V Foundation for Solidarity and the Attijariwafa Bank Group. Following this, two additional centers were planned for Fez, under the patronage of King Mohammed VI, and Tangier, further embedding the Bahraini model within the Moroccan entrepreneurial landscape.
Building Local Capacity Through Training
A core component of the model’s expansion is its focus on building sustainable local expertise. In line with this, the UNIDO center in Bahrain organized a specialized program in Morocco to develop and certify business counselors for micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs). Held in collaboration with Hassan II University, the program trained participants in enterprise diagnostics, growth planning, and effective advisory techniques, ensuring that local entrepreneurs have access to qualified, objective guidance to help them scale their businesses.
About The UNIDO ITPO Bahrain
The UNIDO Investment and Technology Promotion Office (ITPO) in Bahrain, also known as the Arab International Center for Entrepreneurship & Investment, serves as a regional hub for fostering economic development. The office specializes in creating and implementing impactful programs, such as the Bahraini Model for Entrepreneurship, to support SMEs, empower youth and women, and connect local investment with global opportunities.
Source: Al-Watan News
