Latest news with #KhalifaFundforEnterpriseDevelopment
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.
Al Etihad
21-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
Khalifa Fund highlights success stories of Emirati SMEs – from making steel to developing AI chatbot
21 May 2025 04:09 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)Reaffirming its support for the SME sector, the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development is showcasing over 15 pioneering Emirati projects at this year's Make it in the Emirates the SMEs supported by the fund is Sultan Almenhali, whose company provides top-tier medical, surgical, and laboratory equipment for the healthcare sector. Almenhali takes pride in the quality of the medical supplies they produce company, Shabab Al Watan Medical Supplies, also prioritises sustainability in its innovations and operations. For an instance, Almenhali and his team have developed 'tissue paper products—like facial tissues—made from 100% recycled materials, in line with the UAE's sustainability vision'. By participating in MIITE, the company seeks to expand its customer base within the UAE and beyond. Steel Manufacturer Awadh Almazrouei, who runs a specialised manufacturing facility for steel structures, acknowledges how the Khalifa Fund helped fuel the growth of his company. 'The Khalifa Fund provided both financial support and strategic guidance, helping us invest in new machinery, expand fabrication, and grow within the UAE's industrial ecosystem,' Almazrouei said. 'Getting started was tough,' he admitted. 'But quality, delivery, and certifications helped us build trust.' His products, fully designed and manufactured in Abu Dhabi, serve vital sectors like oil and gas and waste management. 'We focus on durable, locally engineered solutions that reduce reliance on imports,' Almazrouei said. Aligned with key national sectors — like machinery, logistics, and energy — his company also embeds sustainability into its operations through waste reduction and the use of recycled materials. 'Our long-term vision is to lead in steel fabrication and help strengthen the UAE's industrial self-sufficiency,' he said Digital Property Platform Another entrepreneur, Khaled Alblooshi, shared how the Khalifa Fund helped turn his digital real estate platform into a solution that supports national innovation and economic goals. Make it in the Emirates Continue full coverage 'Khalifa Fund provided the training and advisory support that helped us shape UR PROPERTY into a fully integrated platform tailored for the UAE market,' he said. 'It is the first of its kind locally, designed to integrate with government systems like digital ID.' The AI-driven platform enables full digital property management, eliminating reliance on foreign systems. 'We offer an Emirati solution that boosts self-sufficiency and market efficiency.' Alblooshi sees the MIITE forum as a springboard: 'We are here to explore partnerships with government entities, expand across the Emirates, and explore regional exports.' UAE-made AI Chatbot Venturing into the rapidly growing AI sector, Abdullah Albadi founded a tech company that features a locally developed AI chatbot. Seniar Technology, he said, stands out in the market with its 'deep local roots'. 'Seniar is a locally developed AI chatbot platform tailored for Gulf-specific language and culture,' Albadi said. 'This local touch reflects the 'Made in the UAE' spirit in terms of innovation, quality, and identity.' Khalifa Fund has been a big help for the tech firm, serving as a guide towards the best opportunities, Albadi said. 'Through mentorship and connections with supporting entities, we've accelerated progress toward our technological and expansion goals,' he added. By introducing locally managed AI solutions, Seniar aims to reduce entities' dependence on foreign tech and support digital sovereignty, Albadi said. 'Our work supports the advanced technology and digital transformation sector, delivering AI tools for industries like education, healthcare, and government,' he said. Participating in Make it in the Emirates, he added, opened doors for the company: 'We hope to expand our strategic partnerships and showcase our capabilities to decision-makers and investors.'
Al Etihad
21-05-2025
- Business
- Al Etihad
From healthy chocolate to furniture: Female founders aim to go global top-notch UAE-made products
21 May 2025 03:39 SARA ALZAABI (ABU DHABI)Women have been making a mark in the UAE's industrial landscape - and, with the support of the government, some have started their own ventures, built their facilities, and now on their way to global this year's Make it in the Emirates (MIITE) forum, the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development showcases more than 15 innovative Emirati-led projects, including those led by female entrepreneurs. Among them is Khadija Al Ameri, who has established a UAE-made keto chocolate brand called idea, she said, was to produce a healthy, tasty treat that is "sugar-free, diabetic-friendly, and made with clean ingredients that reflect the UAE's commitment to quality and innovation"."We produce locally, use responsible packaging, and reduce reliance on imports-all while promoting healthier lifestyles," Al Ameri told Aletihad. With support from Khalifa Fund, Al Ameri was able secure a certified factory partner in Dubai and navigate regulatory challenges, she said. "We aim to lead the UAE's healthy chocolate segment and contribute to national goals for economic diversification and industrial innovation," she her participation in MIITE, she now hopes to find partners that will help the brand grow beyond the UAE. Manufacturing Bakery EquipmentAnother entrepreneur, Khadija Abdullah, has built a factory that now produces high-quality bakery tools and equipment - from ovens, dough sheeters and bread cutters to automated systems tailored to their clients' needs. "We are the first UAE and Gulf-based factory in this sector. Our designs are tailored for local needs and built entirely in the UAE using high-quality materials and Emirati talent," said Abdullah, who founded the Bawabat Al Sharq Factory with the backing of Khalifa Fund. She admitted that the starting the venture wasn't easy, adding that financing and technology access were among the major hurdles. With Khalifa Fund's support, however, Bawabat Al Sharq Factory was able to move forward. Now, the company seeks to "expand its exports, build technical partnerships, and showcase what 'Made in the UAE' truly means", Abdullah said. Through the solutions they create, they seek to help boost food security while supporting the UAE's vision for a knowledge-based industrial economy. Making Furniture Widad Alhammadi, an entrepreneur in the furniture and interior design sector, makes sure her work reflects the UAE identity. Widad Al Hammadi Furniture & Decoration, a full-service interior design firm, offers environmentally responsible design solutions that blend with modern trends and cultural authenticity. "Everything is manufactured here - not just assembled. We use quality materials and Emirati-inspired designs," Alhammadi said. Her approach goes beyond aesthetics, focusing on sustainability and local innovation. Make it in the Emirates Continue full coverage "We develop raw materials from our environment and use them in furniture-making. This reduces import reliance and supports the national economy." Alhammadi currently collaborates with factories to deliver her designs but she has big plans for the future. "I aim to move into direct manufacturing-to gain more control, respond faster to market needs, and deepen my impact on local industry," she said. Highlighting the crucial role Khalifa Fund played in the growth of her company, Alhammadi said: "They helped us join exhibitions at discounted rates and supported us with letters that secured fee exemptions on government projects-boosting our market presence and competitiveness." In the long run, Alhammadi aims to "create a fully integrated design and manufacturing business that honours Emirati identity - and reaches global markets".
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.
