Bank al Etihad Opens Applications for the 10th Edition of the SME Awards - Jordan News

Jordan News

4 days ago

Amman, August 2025 – Bank al Etihad has recently opened applications for the 10th edition of its annual Small and Medium Enterprises (SME) Awards. This pioneering initiative was first launched by the bank in 2014 with the aim of supporting local businesses by helping them enhance their capabilities, in recognition of the vital role they play in driving Jordan's economy and uplifting the Jordanian community as a whole. Over the years, the award has evolved into a platform that enables entrepreneurs and SMEs to grow through knowledge sharing and networking. اضافة اعلان Since its inception, Bank al Etihad has been committed to making this initiative more than just a competition. It is a comprehensive platform that empowers businesses to build strong networks, highlight their achievements, and support their growth and sustainability. Over the past ten years, the award has become a space that brings success stories together and celebrates passion and hard work—demonstrating the bank's ongoing commitment to supporting entrepreneurship in Jordan and solidifying its position as a key supporter of promising businesses and entrepreneurs. In this special edition, the bank has expanded the scope of participation to include all small, medium, and startup businesses—regardless of sector—based on the belief that every ambitious project deserves a chance. Two cash prizes will be awarded this year: the first for the Best Small or Medium Enterprise worth JOD 35,000, and the second for the Best Startup worth JOD 15,000. Applications will be accepted from August 5 to September 16, 2025. An initial judging panel made up of Bank al Etihad representatives will select three finalists in each category. These finalists will present their pitches before a second judging panel composed of Jordanian business leaders and entrepreneurs. The winners will be announced at the awards ceremony on October 18, 2025. Companies will be evaluated based on four main criteria: financial performance (30%), business sustainability and growth (30%), innovation (25%), and social and environmental impact (15%). These criteria aim to highlight companies that demonstrate strong and well-rounded performance—not just in terms of profitability, but also in creating positive and sustainable impact on society and the environment.
Bank al Etihad invites all eligible businesses to apply through the award's official online portal and take advantage of this opportunity to join a network of success stories that began 10 years ago and continues to grow year after year. About Bank al Etihad
Bank al Etihad is a financial and banking institution that has focused on serving customers since 1987. The Bank al Etihad Group holds a prominent position in Jordan and includes several companies, such as a brokerage firm (Etihad Brokerage) and a leasing company (Etihad Leasing). The bank also holds a 10% stake in the National Bank in Palestine and has a seat on its Board of Directors. In 2017, Bank al Etihad acquired a controlling stake in Safwa Islamic Bank. In 2024, the bank expanded regionally by opening its first branch in Iraq. It further strengthened its presence in the Jordanian market through its merger with the Jordan Investment Bank in 2025.