SCW launches fifth cycle of Imtiyaz initiative

Biz Bahrain

13-07-2025

The Supreme Council for Women (SCW) has recently launched the fifth cycle of the 'Imtiyaz' Initiative for Young Bahraini Women Entrepreneurs, a prominent platform designed to inspire and empower. This initiative plays a pivotal role in advancing the economic participation of Bahraini women, fostering entrepreneurial spirit among young women, and highlighting outstanding achievements in the field. It also aims to promote a culture of innovation, encourage new business ventures, and draw attention to emerging investment sectors within the Kingdom. The initiative further strengthens partnerships between the Supreme Council for Women and civil society organisations, supporting the economic empowerment of women in line with the objectives of the national plan for the advancement of Bahraini women.
The 'Imtiyaz' Initiative was established by Edict (10) of 2011, issued by Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Consort of His Majesty the King and President of the Supreme Council for Women (SCW). Over its previous four cycles, the initiative has gained significant momentum, growing from 11 participants in its inaugural round to 98 in the fourth, spanning a diverse range of sectors.
The initiative seeks to enhance the role of women in society by promoting economic development through diverse projects, showcase exemplary success stories, and celebrate the diversity of ideas and innovation in entrepreneurship.
'Imtiyaz' is open to all young Bahraini women entrepreneurs who have demonstrated excellence in their respective fields. The initiative aims to highlight their achievements, encourage more women to enter the entrepreneurial sector, and position self-employment as a viable pathway to economic participation and national growth.
The initiative provides more than recognition for winners. It offers a comprehensive package of benefits to support their entrepreneurial journey, including development support for products and services to increase productivity and competitiveness, the right to use the 'Imtiyaz' logo on official materials, access to training and mentorship from industry experts, opportunities to connect with a broad network of investors and entrepreneurs, and increased media exposure to promote their projects and enhance brand credibility.
Applicants must:
Be Bahraini nationals, aged 45 or younger.
Have at least three years of entrepreneurial experience.
Submit a financial report on their business or project.
Hold a valid business licence in their name or own at least 50% of the venture.
Operate a business engaged in sales, purchases, or service provision.
Assessment is based on creativity and distinction in entrepreneurship, ability to develop and sustain the project, recruitment of national talent with consideration for equal opportunities, ambitious initiatives to expand beyond the local market, and voluntary activities reflecting a strong sense of social responsibility. Projects are evaluated by a dedicated panel, with a focus on governance principles such as transparency, accountability, fairness, rule of law, and effectiveness, encouraging entrepreneurs to enhance their institutions' efficiency, sustainability, and competitiveness.
Winners from previous cycles have represented a range of sectors, including retail, healthcare, legal services, event management, design, and food production, among others. Each cycle has seen a notable increase in participation, reflecting the growing impact and reach of the initiative.
The Supreme Council for Women has announced the opening of applications for the fifth cycle, inviting young Bahraini women entrepreneurs to present their projects. This cycle offers participants the opportunity to access innovative solutions for strategic development, identify challenges and opportunities, and benefit from support programmes that facilitate entry into international markets and enhance business competitiveness.
Participating projects are expected to demonstrate flexibility, export potential, and a commitment to innovation and sustainability, including the adoption of digital solutions and alignment with the Fourth Industrial Revolution. The initiative remains a key driver in economically empowering Bahraini women, promoting equal opportunities, and supporting a balance between professional and family life, contributing to the steady rise in participation with each cycle.
BNA(R)