The Sultanate of Oman is hosting over 2,000 entrepreneurs at the Entrepreneurial Growth 2025 Forum, a significant two-day event aimed at accelerating the nation’s startup and SME landscape. Organized by the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA), the forum at the Oman Convention and Exhibition Centre serves as a critical platform for aligning the entrepreneurial sector with the ambitious goals of Oman Vision 2040.
Fostering Integration and Opportunity
The forum is designed to review government services and initiatives that support entrepreneurship while stimulating greater integration between SMEs, startups, and government entities. A primary objective is to expand business opportunities by showcasing available contracts for SMEs, empowering founders to market their products, and fostering collaboration between Omani startups and a network of local and international investors
The event features interactive sessions, dialogues, and inspiring presentations from successful local entrepreneurs who have transformed their ideas into pioneering projects.
A Platform for Local Talent
The forum also provides a vital networking opportunity for companies addressing key market needs. Jassim bin Salim al Hashmi, CEO of human resources management company Mansab, highlighted the value of the gathering
“We work in the service sector by providing employees through the Mansab platform. Individuals can submit applications, and we identify available national talent in Oman, whether they are job-seekers, or those laid off,” said Al Hashmi. “Our presence here will support existing companies in providing talent, as many companies struggle to find qualified personnel, particularly in the startup and SME sectors.”
Connecting Innovators with Capital
A central feature of the forum is the Entrepreneurship Investment Deal, a dedicated platform connecting entrepreneurs and startups directly with investors, venture capital firms, and other funding entities
Further enhancing the ecosystem, the event includes an AI Hackathon for Entrepreneurs, specialized exhibitions for industry partners, and a Youth Pavilion. The pavilion, created in cooperation with the Ministry of Culture, Sports and Youth’s Youth Centre, offers a space designed for creativity and interactive entrepreneurial simulation.
About The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA)
The Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (SMEDA) is the primary government body in Oman responsible for developing the SME sector. Its mandate includes creating policies, providing support services, and fostering an environment conducive to the growth and sustainability of startups and SMEs to enhance their contribution to the national economy in line with Oman Vision 2040.
Source: Zawya
