Jordan’s “Voice of Entrepreneurship” program has examined the country’s blue economy opportunities alongside the factors that determine whether startups and small businesses survive and grow.
Speaking on Radio Al Balad, Ibrahim Qaraleh, director of the Jordan River Foundation’s Blue Economy Innovation Enhancement Project, said Aqaba’s position as Jordan’s only maritime gateway creates opportunities across tourism, logistics, digital services, water desalination and aquaculture. The governorate has around 27 kilometres of coastline.
Qaraleh said environmental pressures, including water scarcity, can also create economic opportunities when entrepreneurs develop practical solutions. Through a project delivered with the Embassy of the Netherlands in Jordan, the Jordan River Foundation trained 270 young people and supported 21 community initiatives. A separate incubation programme supported 42 ventures in the green, blue and technology sectors with training, mentoring, logistical support and connections.
He stressed that passion alone is not enough to sustain a business. Entrepreneurs need to validate market demand, build a workable business model and differentiate through innovation in products, packaging, marketing or service delivery. He also encouraged founders to begin selling and testing their ideas rather than waiting for funding, while reinvesting part of their profits to support growth.
In Aqaba, another project implemented with the United Nations Development Programme trained 300 people, including fishers, boat owners, tour guides, youth, women and local organisations, on integrated coastal management and relevant environmental and commercial regulations.
Source: AmmanNet
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