Latest news with #businessregistration
Al Bawaba
a day ago
- Business
- Al Bawaba
Mastercard, IFZA and Global Tax Assistant launch AI-driven digital business registration process to accelerate SME growth in UAE
Mastercard has joined forces with IFZA, one of the fastest-growing free zones in the UAE, and Global Tax Assistant, an international consulting firm, to launch a fully digital, AI-driven business registration journey in the UAE. The collaboration aims to accelerate the growth of the country's small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and pave the way for their expansion across the Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa (EEMEA) account for over 94% of all businesses in the UAE and contribute to more than 50% of its GDP. The National Agenda for Entrepreneurship and SMEs seeks to establish the UAE as an entrepreneurial nation, and one of the top three countries in the Global Entrepreneurship Index by 2031. The collaboration marks one of the first digital AI-powered business registration pilots in the region, reflecting a unique public-private sector collaboration focused on SME enablement through advanced technology.'The thriving SME economy forms the beating heart of the UAE's diverse business landscape. At IFZA, we believe SMEs are the prototype of tomorrow's global companies, driving innovation, job creation, exports and new business models. We work together with our partners to equip the country's small business community with the tools and resources they need to succeed. We are confident our latest joint initiative will boost the UAE's global competitiveness as a business hub with progressive infrastructure,' said Jochen Knecht, CEO, end-to-end onboarding process – from document submission to license issuance – is powered by AI, enabling faster, more efficient, processing. Automation across form completion, document verification and communication workflows help reduce setup time and operational overhead for part of the collaboration, Mastercard business card cardholders will gain access to simplified and discounted business setup services, further reducing friction and costs for startups and small businesses in the UAE.'Our collaboration with IFZA and Global Tax Assistant enhances the value we deliver to our business customers, while supporting the UAE's vision of a thriving digital economy. SMEs are vital to regional growth, and this initiative demonstrates our commitment to empowering small businesses through technology, partnerships and financial inclusion,' said Onur Kursun, executive vice president, Commercial and New Payment Flows, EEMEA, Mastercard. 'We are working to build a digital economy for everyone, everywhere. As of 2024, Mastercard has connected 960 million people and 65 million micro-, small, and medium sized enterprises to the digital economy,' he collaboration is closely aligned with the UAE's broader digital transformation agenda and its commitment to strengthening the SME sector – two key pillars of the nation's economic diversification strategy. By digitizing key aspects of business formation and compliance, the collaboration contributes to national goals of fostering innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable economic development.'Global Tax Assistant is dedicated to helping small business owners unlock new opportunities. We are excited to enter the collaboration with Mastercard and IFZA that aims to contribute to building an enabling environment for entrepreneurship in the UAE by facilitating faster and simpler digital access to business setup. The new synergy enhances our role in providing seamless compliance and advisory services to small businesses in the country. We will also explore the potential usage of the underlying technology in banks' customer journey flows,' said Smbat Alikhanyan, CEO, Global Tax to startups from over 160 countries, IFZA is one of the leading free zone communities in Dubai with world-class infrastructure, state-of-the-art facilities and business-friendly regulations. With more than 10 years of international expertise, Global Tax Assistant provides accounting, legal, financial auditing and tax consultancy services to over 350 clients in the UAE, Oman, Kuwait and Qatar.
Zawya
2 days ago
- Business
- Zawya
Mastercard, IFZA and Global Tax Assistant launch AI-driven digital business registration process to accelerate SME growth in UAE
AI-driven onboarding reduces friction and costs associated with business setup and compliance Dubai, UAE: Mastercard has joined forces with IFZA, one of the fastest-growing free zones in the UAE, and Global Tax Assistant, an international consulting firm, to launch a fully digital, AI-driven business registration journey in the UAE. The collaboration aims to accelerate the growth of the country's small- and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and pave the way for their expansion across the Eastern Europe, Middle East and Africa (EEMEA) markets. SMEs account for over 94% of all businesses in the UAE and contribute to more than 50% of its GDP. The National Agenda for Entrepreneurship and SMEs seeks to establish the UAE as an entrepreneurial nation, and one of the top three countries in the Global Entrepreneurship Index by 2031. The collaboration marks one of the first digital AI-powered business registration pilots in the region, reflecting a unique public-private sector collaboration focused on SME enablement through advanced technology. 'The thriving SME economy forms the beating heart of the UAE's diverse business landscape. At IFZA, we believe SMEs are the prototype of tomorrow's global companies, driving innovation, job creation, exports and new business models. We work together with our partners to equip the country's small business community with the tools and resources they need to succeed. We are confident our latest joint initiative will boost the UAE's global competitiveness as a business hub with progressive infrastructure,' said Jochen Knecht, CEO, IFZA. The end-to-end onboarding process – from document submission to license issuance – is powered by AI, enabling faster, more efficient, processing. Automation across form completion, document verification and communication workflows help reduce setup time and operational overhead for entrepreneurs. As part of the collaboration, Mastercard business card cardholders will gain access to simplified and discounted business setup services, further reducing friction and costs for startups and small businesses in the UAE. 'Our collaboration with IFZA and Global Tax Assistant enhances the value we deliver to our business customers, while supporting the UAE's vision of a thriving digital economy. SMEs are vital to regional growth, and this initiative demonstrates our commitment to empowering small businesses through technology, partnerships and financial inclusion,' said Onur Kursun, executive vice president, Commercial and New Payment Flows, EEMEA, Mastercard. 'We are working to build a digital economy for everyone, everywhere. As of 2024, Mastercard has connected 960 million people and 65 million micro-, small, and medium sized enterprises to the digital economy,' he concluded. The collaboration is closely aligned with the UAE's broader digital transformation agenda and its commitment to strengthening the SME sector – two key pillars of the nation's economic diversification strategy. By digitizing key aspects of business formation and compliance, the collaboration contributes to national goals of fostering innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainable economic development. 'Global Tax Assistant is dedicated to helping small business owners unlock new opportunities. We are excited to enter the collaboration with Mastercard and IFZA that aims to contribute to building an enabling environment for entrepreneurship in the UAE by facilitating faster and simpler digital access to business setup. The new synergy enhances our role in providing seamless compliance and advisory services to small businesses in the country. We will also explore the potential usage of the underlying technology in banks' customer journey flows,' said Smbat Alikhanyan, CEO, Global Tax Assistant. Home to startups from over 160 countries, IFZA is one of the leading free zone communities in Dubai with world-class infrastructure, state-of-the-art facilities and business-friendly regulations. With more than 10 years of international expertise, Global Tax Assistant provides accounting, legal, financial auditing and tax consultancy services to over 350 clients in the UAE, Oman, Kuwait and Qatar. About Mastercard Mastercard powers economies and empowers people in 200+ countries and territories worldwide. Together with our customers, we're building a sustainable economy where everyone can prosper. We support a wide range of digital payments choices, making transactions secure, simple, smart and accessible. Our technology and innovation, partnerships and networks combine to deliver a unique set of products and services that help people, businesses and governments realize their greatest potential. Mastercard communications contact:
Associated Press
22-07-2025
- Business
- Associated Press
Toronto Central's Ontario Business Central Inc. Receives 2025 Consumer Choice Award for Business Registration Services
TORONTO, ONTARIO / ACCESS Newswire / July 22, 2025 / Ontario Business Central Inc., a trusted provider of online business registration, incorporation, and corporate filing services, has been honoured with the 2025 Consumer Choice Award in the Business Registration Services in Canada category for Toronto Central. This recognition celebrates the company's exceptional track record-since 1992-in empowering entrepreneurs through accessible, compliant, and efficient business setup solutions. Ontario Business Central has supported over 300,000 entrepreneurs across Canada-handling everything from provincial and federal incorporations to NUANS name searches, business registrations and renewals, corporate records updates, extra-provincial filings, dissolutions and corporate searches. Decades of Seamless Service for Canadian Entrepreneurs Since 1992, Ontario Business Central has been a trusted partner for entrepreneurs across Canada. The company offers a comprehensive range of services to help individuals start a business, in Ontario, Alberta, British Columbia, Saskatchewan, Manitoba, and federally within Canada. As part of the process, Ontario Business Central provides assistance with business name searches and domain registrations, Ontario Business Central delivers a full suite of corporate solutions-ranging from corporate searches, changes to both registered and incorporated businesses, corporate supplies and so much more. They assist with ongoing compliance assistance-so clients can maintain good standing with confidence and ease. Transforming Business Registration with Technology & Expertise Ontario Business Central pairs its user-friendly online platform and responsive customer support with professional guidance every step of the way. From name selection to NUANS searches, BN/HST registrations, and filing completion, clients benefit from fast, transparent, and reliable service. Automated reminders further support compliance and provide peace of mind. 'When I founded Ontario Business Central in 1992, I aimed to simplify the journey of business ownership in Canada,' said Laura Harvey, Founder and CEO of Ontario Business Central Inc. 'This Consumer Choice Award confirms that our efforts matter. It's deeply rewarding to be recognized for simplifying entrepreneurship and earning the trust of so many business owners.' Excellence Anchored in Trust and Compliance Operating from its Toronto-based headquarters on University Avenue, Ontario Business Central holds an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau and is an authorized intermediary across federal and provincial jurisdictions. The Consumer Choice Award reflects independent consumer feedback, solid brand reputation, and unwavering service excellence. Invested in Entrepreneurial Success Beyond core services, Ontario Business Central enriches the entrepreneurial landscape through educational content, including informational blog posts. In February 2019, the Ontario Business Central YouTube Channel was created as a comprehensive resource for individuals seeking clear, informative guidance on topics such as business registration, incorporation, business naming, taxation, and regulatory compliance. With an extensive library of educational content, it has become a valuable tool for entrepreneurs across Canada. One of our most notable series, " Taking the Leap,' features in-depth interviews with clients who have launched their businesses through Ontario Business Central. These candid conversations explore the challenges, successes, and meaningful experiences that come with entrepreneurship-offering valuable perspective and encouragement to those considering starting their own business. Made in Canada is a podcast for the dreamers, doers, and builders shaping the future of Canadian business. Hosted by the team at Ontario Business Central, each episode dives into the real stories behind Canada's entrepreneurs - from bold side hustles to full-fledged companies. We explore what it takes to start and grow a business in Canada today, sharing insights, inspiration, and advice from those who've taken the leap. Whether you're just starting out or scaling your next big idea, this podcast is your roadmap to making it happen - right here at home. Made in Canada can be found on Spotify or Amazon Music among other major streaming platforms. For more information on business registrations and incorporation options, CLICK HERE or visit About Consumer Choice Award: Consumer Choice Award has been recognizing and promoting business excellence in North America since 1987. Its rigorous selection process ensures that only the most outstanding service providers in each category earn this prestigious recognition. Visit to learn more. Contact Information: Sumi Saleh Communications Manager [email protected] SOURCE: Consumer Choice Award press release
Irish Times
17-06-2025
- Business
- Irish Times
Low start-up costs a ‘key factor' behind surge in new Irish companies
Ireland saw a surge in new business registrations last year, a phenomenon likely related to the low cost of starting a company here, digital bank Bunq has said. The Dutch-registered fintech conducted a study of start-up costs across the ten countries with the highest gross domestic product in the European Union. Bunq found that while Greece and Portugal have the lowest financial barriers to starting a business in the sample of countries at €287 and €751, the Republic is 'competitive' with start-up costs €808.17. The initial costs associated with setting up a new business relate to notary fees, the cost of tax advice for entry into commercial registers and fees for registering the business with the relevant statutory body and setting up a company bank account. READ MORE In Germany – where start-up costs for limited liability companies stand at around €26,266, according to Bunq – companies also have to comply with high mandatory capital requirements, raising business set-up costs. Here, the mandatory capital requirement is just €1, while the Companies Registration Office (CRO) charges a 'nominal fee' of €50 to register a new business, the fintech said. Bunq said the Republic also compared favourably with other countries due to the relatively low cost of essential tax advice, which it calculated at €750 for 15 hours. This sits 'well below' countries like France and Austria, where essential tax advice costs €3,300 and €3,000 respectively. Ireland's statutory 12.5 per cent rate of corporation tax also offers an 'unbeatable' advantage. Citing CRO figures, Bunq said some 23,384 new businesses of all types were established in 2024, up 5.5 per cent from 2023. Last year was 'the second busiest year for new business registrations in over a decade', Bunq said. 'Only 2021, right after the pandemic, saw more.' A 'key factor' in this low financial barriers to establishing a business
Zawya
26-05-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Saudi ministry unveils updated digital commercial registration with QR code access
RIYADH — The Ministry of Commerce has introduced a redesigned digital commercial registration (CR) certificate for businesses in Saudi Arabia, featuring a more streamlined format and improved data accessibility. The updated CR now consists of a single-page electronic certificate containing all relevant business information. Users can instantly access detailed data by scanning a QR code displayed on the left side of the certificate. This update coincides with the implementation of the new Commercial Registry Law and its executive regulations. Among the key changes is the transition to a unified national CR per establishment, consolidating all activities under one license regardless of geographic location within the Kingdom. The revised system also eliminates the traditional expiration date for the CR. Instead, businesses are now required to electronically confirm their registry information annually through a new verification process, replacing the previous renewal requirement. The new CR format displays essential information such as business activities, date of registration, date of annual confirmation, official address, list of company managers, capital value, and more. The certificate in its new digital form is recognized and accepted by all government agencies, private entities, and financial institutions across the country. The Ministry of Commerce emphasized that the redesigned registry improves transparency, reduces paperwork, and enhances efficiency for both businesses and regulatory bodies. © Copyright 2022 The Saudi Gazette. All Rights Reserved. Provided by SyndiGate Media Inc. (
