Muscat:The eighth Gulf Business Incubators and Accelerators Conference focused on the challenges and opportunities for the growth of small and medium enterprises (SMEs) across Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries.
According to Bahrain News Agency, the conference, held in Muscat on Sunday, was organized by the Bahraini-Omani Entrepreneurs Association, chaired by MP Ahmed Sabah Al Salloom, in cooperation with Oman's Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority (Riyada). More than 300 entrepreneurs from GCC countries participated in the event.
The conference, under the patronage of Sheikh Khalid bin Hilal Al Maawali, Chairman of Oman's Majlis A'Shura, was attended by Dr. Jumaa Ahmed Al Kaabi, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Bahrain to the Sultanate of Oman, along with GCC ambassadors, officials, and entrepreneurship specialists. It featured four panel discussions covering entrepreneurship development, the role of business incubators and accelerators in supporting startups, financing opportunities, professional training, and the expansion of SMEs into Gulf markets.
MP Ahmed Sabah Al Salloom emphasized the importance of establishing sustainable cooperation among GCC business incubators and accelerators, particularly in addressing financing challenges and improving market access. He urged the translation of the conference's recommendations into practical initiatives.
Dr. Jumaa Ahmed Al Kaabi highlighted the significance of SMEs and entrepreneurship in supporting economic diversification, innovation, and employment across GCC countries. He also underscored the role of such conferences in exchanging expertise and strengthening business partnerships.
Her Highness Sayyida Hujaija bint Jaifar Al Said, Chief Executive Officer of the Bahraini-Omani Entrepreneurs Association, noted the conference's role in connecting entrepreneurs with supporting institutions and developing cooperation in financing and business development.
The conference concluded with recommendations aimed at strengthening coordination among GCC business incubators and accelerators and supporting the sustainable growth of SMEs.