SME Focus
Unleashing the
entreprenurial spirit
Interview with HE Dr. Ahmad Al Mutawa,
CEO, The Khalifa Fund
One thing that is apparent when one examines the
macroeconomic landscape of Abu Dhabi is that the
businesses can be broadly classed into two groups,
massive or micro. In order the bridge this gap and
enable the development of the small and medium
sized grouping, measures have been taken such as the
establishment of the Khalifa Fund. This is a necessary
component of achieving the diversification stipulated
in Vision 2030 through the creation of a properly
functioning private sector.
Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030
Development Initiatives
In order to encourage the development of SMEs,
the Abu Dhabi Government established the
AED1bn Khalifa Fund, which provides financial
and professional assistance to local entrepreneurs.
UAE nationals may apply for low-interest loans or
venture capital of up to AED3m for new businesses,
and up to AED5m for established businesses that
wish to expand.
In addition, the Khalifa Fund provides a range
of other assistance to entrepreneurs, including
training programmes, business consultancy,
physical facilities, shared services such as
accounting, HR and administrative support. The
private sector also supports SMEs through various
training programmes, development initiatives and
products and services designed for entrepreneurs,
including special banking products and business
assistance.
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