Established with the main aim of supporting Bahrain’s Economic Vision of 2030, Bahrain’s Small and Medium Enterprises Development Society plans to benefit Bahraini entrepreneurs through special privileges and incentives. With clearly-defined long-term goals and the ability to attract high-profile names, the Society is set to make their mark as a key contributor to the Kingdom’s economic progress.
Society Members and Main Goals
The Society was established with the main aim of supporting Bahrain’s Economic Vision of 2030 and consists of Chairman Ahmed Al Saloom, Vice-Chairman Khalaf Hujjair, Treasurer Abdulkareem Al-Rashed, Vice-Treasurer Maryam Al-Murbati, Secretary Abbas Yousif, Ahmed Khalfan as head of public relations, as well as Board Members Adel Al Safar, Rasheed Al Wardi, Eman Rasheed and Fadhila Haider. Al Saloom defines their ultimate goal as to having a direct positive influence in the local entrepreneurial scene. “The Society will promote and support youths and entrepreneurs to start new businesses and projects in a business friendly environment in order to support economic growth.” Mr. Farouq Almoayyed, one of the most prominent and successful Bahraini businessmen, holds the position of Honorary Chairman of the Society. Al Saloom acknowledges the significance of having a Society member with such a notable track record. “Mr. Almoayyed’s approval of becoming the Honorary Chairman of the Society will contribute to maximizing the efforts undertaken by the Society.”
Benefits and Long-Term Plans
The Society is also planning to sign a number of agreements and partnerships with various companies in order to provide long term privileges to Society members in various essential services that every SME needs. They are part of an initiative that aims to cut-cost through providing consultation as well as discounts that benefit them directly such as accounting services and legal consultations. “It is important to encourage young entrepreneurs and promote innovation to translate their ideas and aspirations to real economic projects” said Vice-Chairman Khalaf Hujjair.
BCCI Elections Awareness and Education Campaign
The Society also planned a campaign to raise awareness about the BCCI elections due to the important role that BCCI plays in representing the interests of the Bahraini business family both locally and internationally. The campaign served to highlight the crucial significance of these elections, particularly in the midst of radical changes that the economy is experiencing due to the implementation of the Bahrain Economic Vision 2030. The campaign included many programs and conferences, as well as organized debates between the candidates so voters could make a more informed decision when choosing their representative. Al Saloom attributes the creation of a strong economy to a progress of clear communication. “The next stage requires competent negotiators who can represent the business family effectively with the official authorities. BCCI should be an important partner with the government which provides its views in agreements and decisions that affect the interests of the commercial sector. The Chamber should be a strong representative for the businessmen and it should employ competent experts & consultants who can use their skills and knowledge in promoting the interest of the Bahraini businessmen.”