Latest news with #KFED
Al Etihad
22-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
From funding to mentorship: Khalifa Fund and Sheraa power the future of UAE SMEs
23 May 2025 00:15 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)At Make it in the Emirates 2025, national entities have come on board to show how they are contributing to the activation of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), a key component of the UAE non-oil economy. The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED) is among those that have prioritised helping SMEs. 'The fund offers loans with flexible terms and grace periods, tailored to SMEs' needs,' said Zayed Al Khzaimi, Senior Business Counsellor at Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, in an interview with Aletihad . 'We also run the SME Finance Facilitator Programme, connecting entrepreneurs with banks and enabling joint credit assessments to improve access to financing. So far, we have supported over 1,200 Emiratis with more than Dh1.3 billion, driving SME sustainability across the UAE.'This support, he explained, is aligned closely with national goals, focusing on priority sectors like manufacturing, AgriTech, green energy, and healthcare.'Through partnerships with key entities, we encourage innovation, empower local talent, and accelerate prototype development.'Acknowledging financing gaps as one of the main barriers for SMEs, Al Khzaimi said the fund offers 'the SME Finance Facilitator to help businesses navigate the banking system, prove their creditworthiness, and access funding'.KFED's support goes beyond a simple investment, Al Khzaimi added. Training, mentorship, and networking opportunities all contribute to empowering SMEs. 'We also support alignment with key standards like ICV, enabling SMEs to enter broader supply chains and secure public contracts,' he said. 'Overall, we aim to transform SMEs into globally competitive players—not just local contributors; by boosting their efficiency and entrepreneurial capabilities.' Support from SheraaAnother key supporter of SMEs is Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa). Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, stressed the organisation's unwavering commitment to industrial innovation and entrepreneurship in the UAE: 'We believe that entrepreneurs are the driving force behind industrial transformation, and it is our responsibility to build a supportive environment to help them grow their businesses.' Sheraa seeks to empower entrepreneurs and connect them with real industrial opportunities that contribute to national objectives in localisation and sustainable manufacturing, Al Nuaimi told Aletihad . The centre provides SMEs exposure opportunities through platforms like Make it in the Emirates, apart from mentorship services and incubator support. 'We also help them connect with investors and gain market access, as well as scale and grow in the UAE through our ecosystem partners,' Al Nuaimi said. 'The SME sector is one of the pillars of the UAE economy. It is a key driver of national growth, and it's our role to create the right ecosystem for SMEs to thrive and contribute meaningfully to the country's future,' she said. Make it in the Emirates Continue full coverage
Mid East Info
22-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
At ‘Make it in the Emirates': Khalifa Fund's ASATEER supported project wins ‘Emirati Traditional Crafts' Award
The ASATEER project, supported by the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED), has been awarded the 'Emirati Traditional Crafts' at the fourth edition of the 'Make it in the Emirates' Forum, recognising its innovative contributions and significant role in advancing the UAE's entrepreneurial and creative landscape. The judging panel at this prestigious forum, which is recognised as the UAE's premier industrial gathering that congregates entrepreneurs and innovators across diverse sectors, commended the project for its cultural resonance, originality, and potential to enhance the UAE's local economy while contributing to the advancement of the design industry. Mohammed Rashed AlSuwaidi, founder of ASATEER, expressed his immense pride in receiving this recognition, attributing the project's success to the steadfast support provided by KFED. He stated: 'This recognition inspires us to further strengthen our footprint in the local market and explore new growth opportunities, whether through strategic collaborations or financial partnerships.' AlSuwaidi added: 'Our products are deeply rooted in Emirati heritage, inspired by the legacy of the UAE's founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. We are committed to sharing our culture, both its authenticity and modern evolution, with the world through premium craftsmanship. Our participation in several prominent events, including the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference (COP28), has further fortified our commitment to sustainable, eco-friendly production. Ultimately, we aim to be pioneers in locally sourced Emirati-made design.' Mouza Al Nasri, Acting CEO of Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, remarked: 'We are proud to see ASATEER's achievement and the growth of other homegrown ventures. This reflects the dynamic nature of the UAE's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Supporting startups and fostering innovation is central to our mission. Therefore, we remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering such projects, which serve as catalysts for Abu Dhabi's sustainable economic growth.' The 'Make in the Emirates' forum serves as a crucial platform that unites start-ups, investors, and innovators, with the goal of promoting local manufacturing and enhancing innovation, in line with the UAE's vision for economic growth through entrepreneurial projects and endeavours. The 'Make in the Emirates' Awards, one of the key initiatives of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, recognise excellence and innovation in the industrial sector. These awards celebrate the creative minds and visionaries who aim to shape the future of industry in the UAE and beyond with their bold and ambitious vision. The awards also support the UAE's transformation into a global hub for manufacturing and innovation and offer a platform for participants to showcase their innovations, achievements, success stories, and contributions to the advancement of the country's industrial sector.
Zawya
22-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Khalifa Fund's ASATEER supported project wins ‘Emirati Traditional Crafts' Award
Abu Dhabi – The ASATEER project, supported by the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED), has been awarded the 'Emirati Traditional Crafts' at the fourth edition of the 'Make it in the Emirates' Forum, recognising its innovative contributions and significant role in advancing the UAE's entrepreneurial and creative landscape. The judging panel at this prestigious forum, which is recognised as the UAE's premier industrial gathering that congregates entrepreneurs and innovators across diverse sectors, commended the project for its cultural resonance, originality, and potential to enhance the UAE's local economy while contributing to the advancement of the design industry. Mohammed Rashed AlSuwaidi, founder of ASATEER, expressed his immense pride in receiving this recognition, attributing the project's success to the steadfast support provided by KFED. He stated: 'This recognition inspires us to further strengthen our footprint in the local market and explore new growth opportunities, whether through strategic collaborations or financial partnerships.' AlSuwaidi added: 'Our products are deeply rooted in Emirati heritage, inspired by the legacy of the UAE's founding father, the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan. We are committed to sharing our culture, both its authenticity and modern evolution, with the world through premium craftsmanship. Our participation in several prominent events, including the 2023 UN Climate Change Conference (COP28), has further fortified our commitment to sustainable, eco-friendly production. Ultimately, we aim to be pioneers in locally sourced Emirati-made design.' Mouza Al Nasri, Acting CEO of Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, remarked: 'We are proud to see ASATEER's achievement and the growth of other homegrown ventures. This reflects the dynamic nature of the UAE's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Supporting startups and fostering innovation is central to our mission. Therefore, we remain steadfast in our commitment to empowering such projects, which serve as catalysts for Abu Dhabi's sustainable economic growth.' The 'Make in the Emirates' forum serves as a crucial platform that unites start-ups, investors, and innovators, with the goal of promoting local manufacturing and enhancing innovation, in line with the UAE's vision for economic growth through entrepreneurial projects and endeavours. The 'Make in the Emirates' Awards, one of the key initiatives of the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology, recognise excellence and innovation in the industrial sector. These awards celebrate the creative minds and visionaries who aim to shape the future of industry in the UAE and beyond with their bold and ambitious vision. The awards also support the UAE's transformation into a global hub for manufacturing and innovation and offer a platform for participants to showcase their innovations, achievements, success stories, and contributions to the advancement of the country's industrial sector. About Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development: The Khalifa Fund is an independent, non-profit organisation affiliated with Abu Dhabi Government. Its mission is to nurture the culture of entrepreneurship, promote innovation, and offer support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the UAE through a balanced ecosystem. Founded in 2007 in accordance with Law No. 14 of 2005 and its amendments, the Fund was established to align with the vision of the late His Highness Sheikh Khalifa Bin Zayed Al Nahyan, former President of the United Arab Emirates. To learn more about the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, please visit: About ASATEER: Founded in 2017, ASATEER is a luxury design house specializing in artisanal crafts and bespoke gifts. With studios in Ras Al Khaimah and Abu Dhabi, the brand merges traditional Emirati craftsmanship with contemporary creativity, delivering unique, culturally rich products for global audiences. For further information, please contact: Orient Planet Group (OPG) Email: media@ Website:
Entrepreneur
19-05-2025
- Business
- Entrepreneur
Khalifa Fund to Unveil Over 15 SME-Supporting Ventures at 'Make It in the Emirates' Forum 2025
An agreement is also expected to be signed with Khalifa University to foster innovation and entrepreneurship across the country. You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media. The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED) will be showcasing more than fifteen ventures that are supporting UAE-based small and medium enterprises (SMEs) during the fourth edition of the 'Make it in the Emirates' forum -an annual event which convenes innovators, investors and policymakers to transform the future of the UAE's industrial sector- which will take place this year from May 19-22 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). The forum will facilitate the signing of Khalifa Fund's three key strategic agreements, including one with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MOIAT), to support the UAE's entrepreneurs and innovators in the industrial sector. In addition, an agreement will be signed with the 'Make' platform to jointly develop prototype acceleration programs for light manufacturing. The launch of the Light Manufacturing Accelerator program is a part of KFED's broader efforts to enhance local manufacturing capabilities, by nurturing a comprehensive ecosystem that connects entrepreneurs, manufacturers, government entities and industry partners. The initiative also aims to streamline regulatory processes and facilitate access to supply chain opportunities. More than fifteen key ventures supported by the KFED will participate in the event. These ventures belong to various sectors, including technology, food industries, manufacturing, trade and hospitality, all of which play an integral role in bolstering the local economy, as well as increasing the presence of national products and services in local markets. KFED will also present various strategic initiatives that have been designed to support SMEs, and have thus paved the way for their sustainable growth and market expansion. These include the Abu Dhabi SME Champions Program, which connects startups with key buyers; the SME Export Enablement Program aiming to enhance SMEs' global competitiveness; the SME Finance Facilitator Program, which addresses funding gaps through cutting-edge banking solutions; as well as the ICV Readiness Program, which empowers SMEs to meet in-country value (ICV) standards and actively participate in government tenders, and the aforementioned Light Manufacturing Accelerator. In addition, an agreement is expected to be signed with Khalifa University to foster innovation and entrepreneurship while supporting the growth of startups and SMEs across the country. This partnership aims to leverage the shared expertise of both entities to create an integrated ecosystem that supports entrepreneurs, researchers and students by providing them with the necessary resources, knowledge and funding to transform innovative ideas into successful ventures. "Our participation in the 'Make it in the Emirates' forum exemplifies the Fund's commitment to supporting and empowering national entrepreneurship, particularly in priority sectors aligned with Abu Dhabi's Falcon Economy system," Mouza Al Nasri, Acting CEO of the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED), said. "We, at Khalifa Fund, are committed to implementing the UAE's vision of building a competitive and sustainable economy driven by innovation and production. To achieve this goal, we aim to promote national ventures and create platforms that empower SMEs to confidently enter into new regional and global markets. In this regard, the event serves as a unique platform to highlight inspiring success stories and forge new partnerships, further strengthening the role of SMEs in advancing economic growth while strengthening the UAE's industrial and technological sectors." The four-day-long forum will highlight relevant opportunities and growth prospects, review latest innovations, and enable collaborations across key sectors such as food and beverage, agriculture, aviation, automotive, defence industries, pharmaceuticals and medical technology, ship, navigation and boating industry, metals and manufacturing, handicrafts, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence (AI), fourth industrial revolution's innovations (Industry 4.0), chemical industries, plastics, sustainable materials, machinery and equipment, electrical equipment and electronics, construction, future energy, as well as industrial decarbonization. Related: Make it in the Emirates 2025 to Help Position UAE as a Global Hub for Manufacturing and Advanced Technology
Mid East Info
18-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development to showcase more than fifteen impactful ventures supporting SMEs at ‘Make it in the Emirates' forum
The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED) is showcasing more than fifteen impactful ventures supporting SMEs in the fourth edition of the 'Make it in the Emirates' forum, which is scheduled to be held from May 19 to 22, 2025, at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (ADNEC). At the forum, KFED will present various strategic initiatives designed to support small and medium-sized enterprises, paving the way for their sustainable growth and market expansion. These include the 'Abu Dhabi SME Champions Program', which connects startups with key buyers; the 'SME Export Enablement Program' aiming to enhance SMEs' global competitiveness; the 'SME Finance Facilitator Program', which addresses funding gaps through cutting-edge banking solutions; as well as the 'ICV Readiness Program', which empowers SMEs to meet ICV standards and actively participate in government tenders, and the Light Manufacturing Accelerator. The forum will facilitate the signing of Khalifa Fund's three key strategic agreements, including one with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MOIAT), to support the UAE's entrepreneurs and innovators in the industrial sector. In addition, an agreement will be signed with the 'Make' platform to jointly develop prototype acceleration programs for light manufacturing. The launch of the 'Light Manufacturing Accelerator' program is a part of KFED's broader efforts to enhance local manufacturing capabilities, by nurturing a comprehensive ecosystem that connects entrepreneurs, manufacturers, government entities and industry partners. The initiative also aims to streamline regulatory processes and facilitate access to supply chain opportunities. In addition, an agreement will be signed with Khalifa University to foster innovation and entrepreneurship while supporting the growth of startups and SMEs across the country. This partnership leverages the shared expertise of both entities to create an integrated ecosystem that supports entrepreneurs, researchers and students by providing them with the necessary resources, knowledge and funding to transform innovative ideas into successful ventures. Furthermore, more than fifteen key ventures supported by the Khalifa Fund will participate in the event, reflecting the diversity and innovation of the UAE's dynamic entrepreneurial landscape. These ventures belong to various sectors, including technology, food industries, manufacturing, trade and hospitality, all of which play an integral role in bolstering the local economy, as well as increasing the presence of national products and services in local markets. Mouza Al Nasri, Acting CEO of the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED), said: 'Our participation in the 'Make it in the Emirates' forum exemplifies the Fund's commitment to supporting and empowering national entrepreneurship, particularly in priority sectors aligned with Abu Dhabi's Falcon Economy system. We, at Khalifa Fund, are committed to implementing the UAE's vision of building a competitive and sustainable economy driven by innovation and production. To achieve this goal, we aim to promote national ventures and create platforms that empower SMEs to confidently enter into new regional and global markets. In this regard, the event serves as a unique platform to highlight inspiring success stories and forge new partnerships, further strengthening the role of SMEs in advancing economic growth while strengthening the UAE's industrial and technological sectors.' 'Make it in the Emirates' is one of the UAE's leading industrial events, which convenes innovators, investors and policymakers to positively transform the future of the industrial sector. Over the course of four days, the forum will highlight relevant opportunities and growth prospects, review latest innovations, and create space for enhancing collaboration across key sectors such as food and beverage, agriculture, aviation, automotive, defence industries, pharmaceuticals and medical technology, ship, navigation and boating industry, metals and manufacturing, handicrafts, advanced manufacturing, artificial intelligence (AI), fourth industrial revolution's innovations (Industry 4.0), chemical industries, plastics, sustainable materials, machinery and equipment, electrical equipment and electronics, construction, future energy, as well as industrial decarbonisation.
