The Chamber of Commerce, Industry and Agriculture in Saida and South Lebanon hosted the NextGEN Entrepreneurship Conference, organised by the Development for People and Environment Association (DPNA) and held under the patronage of Economy and Trade Minister Amer Bisat.
The conference brought together entrepreneurs, changemakers, business representatives and أصحاب المبادرات to discuss innovation, startup support and new opportunities in Saida and the wider south. A panel focused on ways to strengthen entrepreneurship in the region and help founders make better use of its local advantages.
Bisat said the Ministry of Economy is working on a policy for small and medium-sized enterprises and improving financing tools. He also said he wants Saida to have a role in shaping that work through cooperation with the chamber, municipality, universities and other partners.
He identified Saida’s port, the historic city and the private sector as three priorities for the next phase. The minister said the port needs responsible management and a clear development plan, while the old city’s heritage, markets, crafts and waterfront could support economic activity, jobs and income.
Saida Mayor Mustafa Hijazi said the municipality is prioritising local development and working with the private sector, universities and the community to support small businesses. The conference concluded with tributes to Bisat and entrepreneurs from Saida and South Lebanon active in fields including science, medicine, arts, business, sports and content creation.
Source: Akhbar Al Youm
