A financial inclusion and entrepreneurship forum in Egypt’s Fayoum governorate highlighted small businesses and self-employment as tools for expanding job opportunities and supporting local economic activity.
Organised by the Fayoum Media Complex, part of Egypt’s State Information Service, the session was held with Banque Misr, the Egyptian Handicrafts Association, Al-Ataa Community Development Association and the Fayoum Directorate of Social Solidarity. Students, civil society representatives and other participants attended.
The event formed part of the “Bokra Ahla” initiative, launched by the Egyptian Handicrafts Association in partnership with Sonaa El Kheir Foundation. The initiative focuses on financial and banking awareness, small-business opportunities, entrepreneurship and the development of handicraft skills, including product quality and design.
Representatives of Banque Misr discussed banking services, electronic payments and financing for small and micro-enterprises. They said entrepreneurs should assess market demand, costs, expected returns and risks through realistic feasibility studies, while building their technical, management and marketing skills.
The practical session included the free distribution and activation of around 150 Meeza electronic cards. Participants recommended expanding awareness of financial services, training for women entrepreneurs and artisans, and cooperation between banks and civil society organisations to improve access to finance and marketing support.
Source: Rosa El Youssef
