DIT Group's specialised magazine targeted at SMB sector to hit stands in October 2007

Named 'Your Business', the magazine will provide valuable information, practical advice and sound business strategies, which will make it a handbook for the Middle East's entrepreneur community. The first issue of YourBusiness will hit the stands across the region in October 2007.

The magazine will also contain practical hands-on features, including step-by-step guides to achieving objectives and setting up infrastructure. Through this magazine, DIT aims to empower potential and existing small business owners to establish and grow their enterprises in the region.

Bud Keegan General Manager, DIT Group, said, "Through YourBusiness magazine we hope to specifically cater to the requirements of the SMB sector and small business owners. Recent research has revealed that the region's SMB sector is poised for remarkable growth over the coming years, with an increasing number of people expressing their desire to set up their own business enterprises."

"However, inadequate information and knowledge about the most suitable business venture, financing options, office location, recruitment methods, marketing strategies, sales tactics and supplier sourcing are often impediments to budding entrepreneurs. Through YourBusiness we aim to address this target market requirement by providing comprehensive information and guidance on all aspects of the SMB segment, from choosing the right business and getting it up and running, to strategising and achieving profitability," he added.

Statistics released by the International Finance Corporation and World Bank Group in January 2007, show that on an average 80 per cent of the total regional business and employment market is made up of SMBs, and this figure is as high as 86 per cent for the UAE.

"SMBs not only foster competitiveness and improved products and services, they also drive the growth of economies across industries and sectors," highlighted Keegan.

Preceding the launch of the magazine, DIT Group has entered into strategic partnerships with leading SME event organisers, GCC Chambers of Commerce and Industry, regional entrepreneur associations, national business incubation units, and regional franchise enablers to reach out to new small business owners and provide them with the information they need to set up and diversify their companies.

Your Business magazine will feature regional set up guides, service directories, industry-focus features, news and events, case studies, franchising opportunities, regulatory issues, and sections on business development and business opportunities. The magazine will also cover topics such as training and development, management strategies, media and marketing, competition and corporate social responsibility.