Al Mabarrah Al Khalifia Foundation (MKF) has rolled out the “SME Growth and Sustainability Initiative,” a new program designed to equip small and medium-sized enterprises in Bahrain with the tools to navigate a volatile global economy. The initiative addresses mounting pressures on businesses, from financial resilience and supply chain disruptions to overall operational agility in the face of economic uncertainty.
Quick Facts
- Targets Bahrain’s small and medium enterprises.
- Aims to build resilience against economic shifts.
- Partnership with UNIDO and government bodies.
A Collaborative Push to Support Bahrain’s Economic Backbone
In response to the challenges facing local businesses, MKF has brought together a powerful coalition of public and private sector partners. The group includes the United Nations Industrial Development Organization – Investment and Technology Promotion Office in Bahrain (UNIDO-ITPO Bahrain), the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the Ministry of Transportation and Telecommunications, and the International Centre for Entrepreneurship and Innovation. This collaboration aims to deliver specialized sessions highlighting services and growth opportunities for Bahraini entrepreneurs.
In a statement, Shaikha Zain bint Khalid Al Khalifa, Chairperson of the MKF Board of Trustees, commented, “This initiative underscores the importance of collaboration between national and international entities in developing effective solutions to the challenges facing the SME sector, which is a key driver of local economic growth opportunities. We are confident that these partnerships will contribute to achieving tangible results that benefit all parties.”
Inside the Program: From Global Best Practices to Local Application
The initiative features a series of expert-led sessions held at MKF’s headquarters, focusing on business sustainability, market expansion through franchising, digital transformation, and logistics. The program’s framework is built on UNIDO’s Enterprise Development & Investment Promotion (EDIP) methodology, also known as the “Bahraini Model for Entrepreneurship,” which introduces global best practices for long-term SME sustainability.
The program also included sessions by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce, the Labour Market Regulatory Authority, and Export Bahrain, each offering specialized guidance. Additionally, Dr. Raed Shams delivered a workshop titled (C3Q), providing participants with strategies for critical thinking and problem-solving. Upcoming sessions in June will be presented by the American University of Bahrain (AUBH) and the Labour Fund “Tamkeen,” adding academic and technical expertise in business development and innovation.
Dr. Hashim Hussein, Head of UNIDO-ITPO Bahrain, said, “We are pleased to work alongside Al Mabarrah Al Khalifia Foundation on this important initiative. This collaboration will help empower entrepreneurs and SMEs to acquire the knowledge and tools necessary to face challenges and achieve sustainable growth.”
Developing Fundable and Sustainable Business Plans
Beyond the initial workshops, the initiative provides entrepreneurs with practical frameworks to improve operational performance, enhance resource management, and develop strategies resilient to economic shocks. Upon completing the sessions, participants will enter a mentorship phase focused on creating growth-oriented, fundable, and sustainable business plans. This final step is designed to ensure their ventures are prepared for long-term success and adaptable to future market changes.
About Al Mabarrah Al Khalifia Foundation
Al Mabarrah Al Khalifia Foundation (MKF) is a non-profit organization based in the Kingdom of Bahrain, dedicated to creating a positive impact in the education and empowerment of Bahraini youth. The foundation provides scholarships, enrichment programs, and skill-building initiatives to help young people achieve their full potential and contribute to the local economy.
Source: Al Ayam
