Latest news with #NajlaAhmedAlMidfa
Zawya
3 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition concludes
The sessions highlighted accelerating entrepreneurship in the agriculture, financing projects and supporting local products. The Conference emphasised investing in innovative agricultural projects and turning them into viable businesses. Al Ain - The inaugural Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition concluded with a firm restatement of the important role of innovation and entrepreneurship in strengthening the agricultural sector and empowering farmers to contribute to the UAE's sustainable food security. Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, the event took place at the ADNEC Centre Al Ain from 28 to 31 May 2025. The event witnessed wide participation from Emirati farmers, federal and government entities in agriculture, as well as youth, academics, innovators, entrepreneurs and the community. The final day of the event featured specialised panel discussions addressing the importance of strong national and international partnerships in supporting Emirati farmers, enhancing the sustainable agriculture ecosystem in the UAE, and empowering farmers through agricultural guidance programmes. During the opening ceremony, Her Excellency Najla Ahmed Al Midfa, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director at Emirates Growth Fund Vice Chairperson at Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa), emphasised that the inaugural edition of the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition is a national event that recognises agriculture as a pathway to growth, a means of empowerment, and a key driver of the economy. Her Excellency noted that the event is inspired by the vision of the nation's wise leadership, which regards the agricultural sector as a fundamental pillar of national security and a sustainable economy. It further underscores the importance of elevating agriculture as a national priority and a genuine economic opportunity. Her Excellency said: "At the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre, we are witnessing a new generation of Emiratis who do not wait for opportunities but create them. They are investing in smart agricultural technologies that will shape the future of the sector. In this spirit, the Emirates Growth Fund was established, with support from the Emirates Development Bank (EDB), to empower innovative national companies in agriculture and food security. The Fund provides flexible investments while allowing the entrepreneurs to manage their projects independently, as our role is to empower, not to control." HE Al Midfa emphasised that achieving lasting success relies on true collaboration among farmers, entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers. This collective effort is essential for turning investments in agriculture into investments for the nation and future generations, thereby strengthening food security and advancing economic and environmental sustainability A session titled Entrepreneurship in the Agricultural Sector - Challenges and Opportunities explored key areas for boosting entrepreneurship in agriculture. During the panel discussions, participants focused on topics such as financing agricultural projects and supporting local products to improve their standing in both domestic and international markets. The panels also addressed challenges and opportunities, the importance of investing in innovative and entrepreneurial ideas, and how to turn those ideas into bankable projects. The session was moderated by Mr. Manea Ahmed Alkaabi, CEO of Emirates Beekeepers Company and Chairman of the Hatta Traders Council. The session explored mechanisms to support sustainable projects and promote investment in the agricultural sector. The speakers included Sultan Salem Al Shamsi, Director of the National Agriculture Centre; Shaker Fareed Zainal, Chief Business Officer of the Emirates Development Bank (EDB); Her Excellency Sara Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa); and Dr. Fuzan Alkhalidi, Director of Programmes and Initiatives Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI). They highlighted the most important challenges in financing agricultural projects. A special session was held with the winners of the Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Agricultural Excellence Award in the 'Innovation' category, celebrating their achievements, creativity, and innovations. It showcased their journey in the sector, their experiences developing their projects, the challenges they faced, and the factors that contributed to their success. The session also highlighted the lessons learned and best practices that can inspire farmers and entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector to promote innovation and sustainability. This session was presented by Eng. Noura Saeed Al Nuaimi, Lead Researcher at the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, and featured insights from the winners: Eng. Hamad Musabah Al Tunaiji, Mr. Rashid Salim Al Ketbi, Mohammed Albuainain Al Mazrouei, and Hassan Juma Al Zaabi. The Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025 is organised within the framework of the 'Plant the Emirates' National Programme, launched to realise the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan for expanding green spaces across the UAE. The event features the participation of 22 federal and government Entities, alongside more than 40 private companies and over 20 startups operating in the field of agriculture. Additionally, four national universities are contributing through their extensive research capabilities, thereby making a significant scientific contribution to the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition, alongside participation from numerous schools.
Sharjah 24
21-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Sheraa showcases Sharjah's industrial innovation at UAE forum
Creating an enabling environment for startups Her Excellency Najla Ahmed Al Midfa explained that the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre is participating in the forum as part of its ongoing efforts to create a stimulating environment for industrial startups. Sheraa focuses on enabling these startups to expand both locally and internationally by connecting them with investors and supportive government institutions. Showcasing Sheraa's programmes and services In exclusive statements to Sharjah 24, Al Midfa noted that the Sheraa pavilion at the forum showcases a wide range of the center's programs. These include incubators and accelerators focused on value-added industrial sectors, along with financing solutions that help entrepreneurs move from the ideation phase to actual manufacturing. Supporting national industrial goals Al Midfa emphasised that Sheraa's presence at the event aligns with the goals of the "300 Billion Project," which seeks to boost the industrial sector's contribution to the UAE's GDP. She highlighted Sheraa's strategic partnerships with Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park and Sharjah Industrial Zones, which allow startups to test prototypes and access advanced infrastructure. Invitation to visit the Sheraa pavilion Al Midfa extended an open invitation to entrepreneurs, investors, and individuals interested in innovative manufacturing to visit the Sheraa pavilion. She encouraged them to explore the center's financing and training offerings, as well as its fully equipped spaces. She reaffirmed Sharjah's commitment to supporting a new generation of innovation-led national industries.
Fintech News ME
20-05-2025
- Business
- Fintech News ME
Emirates Development Bank Launches AED 1 Billion Fund to Support UAE SMEs
Emirates Development Bank has launched the Emirates Growth Fund (EGF), a AED 1 billion growth equity platform aimed at supporting the expansion and competitiveness of SMEs based in the UAE. The fund was introduced during the fourth edition of the Make it in the Emirates Forum. It is designed to provide long-term capital and strategic support to high-potential businesses operating in sectors such as manufacturing, food security, healthcare, and advanced technology. The initiative forms part of the country's broader Operation 300bn strategy, which seeks to increase the contribution of the industrial sector to AED 300 billion by 2031. The Emirates Growth Fund is intended for UAE-based SMEs with annual revenues starting at AED 10 million. Individual investments will range between AED 10 million and AED 50 million. The fund is focused on companies that have moved beyond the early funding stage but require flexible and sustained support to scale. It will take minority equity positions and work closely with businesses to strengthen governance, improve operations, and support long-term growth, while allowing founders to maintain control. The aim is to help build companies that contribute meaningfully to national economic development. The fund is chaired by Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Minister of Sports, with Najla Ahmed Al Midfa serving as vice chair and managing director. Board members include Mariam Saeed Ghobash, Mohammed Huraimel Al Shamsi, Khalfan Juma Belhoul, Hassan AlSayegh, and Stephen Welton. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and chairman of Emirates Development Bank, said the fund reflects the UAE's goal of enhancing its industrial sector and strengthening its position as a global investment destination for industry and technology. He stated: 'The launch of the Emirates Growth Fund is a bold, future-focused step that provides UAE-based growth-stage companies with the capital, expertise, and strategic support needed to scale and lead in the industrial sector. It supports the advancement of priority sectors, enhances industrial competitiveness, and strengthens supply chain resilience and national self-sufficiency.' Commenting on the fund's structure, Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi said: 'EGF is designed to address the critical 'missing middle' in SME funding. These are companies that are too advanced for venture capital, too entrepreneurial for traditional private equity, but too important to ignore. Our goal is to partner with scalable businesses that drive industrial capacity, create jobs, and deliver lasting economic value.' The fund will focus on active minority investments, offering strategic input on governance, operational improvement, and institutional growth. The aim is to strengthen the UAE's industrial capabilities, enhance local supply chains, and contribute to skilled job creation. EGF has already made its first investment in the healthcare sector, partnering with Tarmeem Healthcare Holding.
Zawya
20-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Emirates Development Bank launches $272mln Emirates Growth Fund to accelerate growth of UAE-based SMEs
ABU DHABI: Emirates Development Bank (EDB) today announced the launch of the Emirates Growth Fund (EGF), a transformative AED 1 billion growth equity platform designed to accelerate the scale, resilience, and global competitiveness of UAE-based SMEs. Officially unveiled at the fourth edition of Make it in the Emirates Forum, EGF delivers patient capital and deep strategic partnership to high-potential businesses across priority sectors: Manufacturing, Food Security, Healthcare, and Advanced Technology. The fund plays a pivotal role in driving the UAE's industrial transformation and advancing the goals of Operation 300bn, the national strategy to raise the industrial sector's GDP contribution to AED 300 billion by 2031. Emirates Growth Fund targets UAE-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with strong growth potential and annual revenues typically starting from AED 10 million. The Fund's investments range between AED 10 million and AED 50 million per company. EGF redefines growth capital for UAE SMEs, targeting companies that have outgrown early-stage funding but require flexible, long-term investment to unlock their full potential. By combining minority equity stakes with active value creation, EGF empowers founders to scale sustainably, strengthen governance, and build national champions that will shape the UAE's economic future. The Fund is chaired by Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, UAE Minister of Sports, with Najla Ahmed Al Midfa serving as Vice Chair and Managing Director. The EGF Board also includes Ms. Mariam Saeed Ghobash, Mr. Mohammed Huraimel Al Shamsi, Khalfan Juma Belhoul, Mr. Hassan AlSayegh, and Mr. Stephen Welton. Commenting on the launch, Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Chairman of Emirates Development Bank, stated: 'In line with the vision and directives of the UAE's leadership to enable a transformative leap in our national industrial sector, increase its contribution to GDP, and strengthen the UAE's position as a competitive and reliable destination for industrial and technological investment, Emirates Development Bank remains committed to advancing a future built on resilience and self-sufficiency.' He added 'The launch of the Emirates Growth Fund is a bold, future-focused step that provides UAE-based growth-stage companies with the capital, expertise, and strategic support needed to scale and lead in the industrial sector. It supports the advancement of priority sectors, enhances industrial competitiveness, and strengthens supply chain resilience and national self-sufficiency. We are confident that this Fund will be a true enabler for ambitious companies—serving as a strategic investment in the UAE's long-term growth and prosperity, and reinforcing its position as a global leader in industrial innovation.' Highlighting EGF's strategic focus, Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Chairman of the Emirates Growth Fund and UAE Minister of Sports, added: 'EGF is designed to address the critical 'missing middle' in SME funding. These are companies that are too advanced for venture capital, too entrepreneurial for traditional private equity, but too important to ignore. Our goal is to partner with scalable businesses that drive industrial capacity, create jobs, and deliver lasting economic value. Through patient capital and active support, we are strengthening the foundation of the UAE's next economic era.' Reflecting on EGF's commitment to founder-led growth and national impact, Najla Ahmed Al Midfa, Vice Chair and Managing Director, noted: 'At EGF, our capital is patient, but our ambitions are not. We are here to back UAE founders who are building resilient, future-ready businesses. Through EGF, we are not just writing cheques, we are building in the next generation of UAE economic champions.' EGF targets UAE-headquartered SMEs with strong growth potential, typically generating AED 10 million or more in annual revenue, and invests between AED 10 and 50 million per company. The fund's approach centres on active minority investments, ensuring that founders retain operational control while gaining strategic support in areas such as governance, growth strategy, operational optimization, and institutionalization. By focusing on priority sectors aligned with the UAE's strategic goals, EGF is set to deepen the nation's industrial base, enhance local supply chains, and stimulate high-skilled job creation, all critical pillars of long-term economic resilience. Signalling immediate momentum, EGF unveiled its first investment in the healthcare sector through a partnership with Tarmeem Healthcare Holding LTD, marking the start of a portfolio aimed at delivering measurable impact and national value.
Times of Oman
20-05-2025
- Business
- Times of Oman
Emirates Development Bank launches Dh1bn Emirates Growth Fund
Abu Dhabi: Emirates Development Bank (EDB) announced the launch of the Emirates Growth Fund (EGF), a transformative AED 1 billion growth equity platform designed to accelerate the scale, resilience, and global competitiveness of UAE-based SMEs. Officially unveiled at the fourth edition of Make it in the Emirates Forum, EGF delivers patient capital and deep strategic partnership to high-potential businesses across priority sectors: Manufacturing, Food Security, Healthcare, and Advanced Technology. The fund plays a pivotal role in driving the UAE's industrial transformation and advancing the goals of Operation 300bn, the national strategy to raise the industrial sector's GDP contribution to AED 300 billion by 2031. Emirates Growth Fund targets UAE-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with strong growth potential and annual revenues typically starting from AED 10 million. The Fund's investments range between AED 10 million and AED 50 million per company. EGF redefines growth capital for UAE SMEs, targeting companies that have outgrown early-stage funding but require flexible, long-term investment to unlock their full potential. By combining minority equity stakes with active value creation, EGF empowers founders to scale sustainably, strengthen governance, and build national champions that will shape the UAE's economic future. The Fund is chaired by Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, UAE Minister of Sports, with Najla Ahmed Al Midfa serving as Vice Chair and Managing Director. The EGF Board also includes Ms. Mariam Saeed Ghobash, Mr. Mohammed Huraimel Al Shamsi, Khalfan Juma Belhoul, Mr. Hassan AlSayegh, and Mr. Stephen Welton. Commenting on the launch, Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Chairman of Emirates Development Bank, stated: "In line with the vision and directives of the UAE's leadership to enable a transformative leap in our national industrial sector, increase its contribution to GDP, and strengthen the UAE's position as a competitive and reliable destination for industrial and technological investment, Emirates Development Bank remains committed to advancing a future built on resilience and self-sufficiency." He added "The launch of the Emirates Growth Fund is a bold, future-focused step that provides UAE-based growth-stage companies with the capital, expertise, and strategic support needed to scale and lead in the industrial sector. It supports the advancement of priority sectors, enhances industrial competitiveness, and strengthens supply chain resilience and national self-sufficiency. We are confident that this Fund will be a true enabler for ambitious companies--serving as a strategic investment in the UAE's long-term growth and prosperity, and reinforcing its position as a global leader in industrial innovation." Highlighting EGF's strategic focus, Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, Chairman of the Emirates Growth Fund and UAE Minister of Sports, added: "EGF is designed to address the critical 'missing middle' in SME funding. These are companies that are too advanced for venture capital, too entrepreneurial for traditional private equity, but too important to ignore. Our goal is to partner with scalable businesses that drive industrial capacity, create jobs, and deliver lasting economic value. Through patient capital and active support, we are strengthening the foundation of the UAE's next economic era." Reflecting on EGF's commitment to founder-led growth and national impact, Najla Ahmed Al Midfa, Vice Chair and Managing Director, noted: "At EGF, our capital is patient, but our ambitions are not. We are here to back UAE founders who are building resilient, future-ready businesses. Through EGF, we are not just writing cheques, we are building in the next generation of UAE economic champions." EGF targets UAE-headquartered SMEs with strong growth potential, typically generating AED 10 million or more in annual revenue, and invests between AED 10 and 50 million per company. The fund's approach centres on active minority investments, ensuring that founders retain operational control while gaining strategic support in areas such as governance, growth strategy, operational optimization, and institutionalization. By focusing on priority sectors aligned with the UAE's strategic goals, EGF is set to deepen the nation's industrial base, enhance local supply chains, and stimulate high-skilled job creation, all critical pillars of long-term economic resilience. Signalling immediate momentum, EGF unveiled its first investment in the healthcare sector through a partnership with Tarmeem Healthcare Holding LTD, marking the start of a portfolio aimed at delivering measurable impact and national value.
