Sharaka Youth Fund supports Franchise and Retail Expo

The Franchise & Retail Expo (FRE) is a unique platform wherein successful local and international brands as well as small, medium and large enterprises get unprecedented opportunity to promote their brands, products and services, network and forge tie-ups with retailers and aspiring entrepreneurs, and strengthen partnerships with existing contacts.

Hani Mohammed Al Zubair, Chairman of the Sharaka Youth Fund, said:

"Our aim is to help Omani business enthusiasts develop their entrepreneurial ideas. Sharaka supports the FRE as it provides the right platform for the growing franchise and retail markets in Oman. We encourage aspiring entrepreneurs to start their own business. For this, Sharaka provides financial support and expertise to turn their business ideas into profitable ventures. With this mission, Sharaka helps develop and empower the SMEs, which are major contributors to the growth of the global economy. Sharaka also aims to help create employment, providing strong support to the business community."

His Majesty Sultan Qaboos bin Said has provided the Sharaka-Youth Fund with generous donation of RO1 million. Private sector companies as well as individuals have likewise contributed to the fund's share capital.

Owned and operated by Fund for Development of Youth Projects (S.A.O.C.), Sharaka Youth Fund supports various industries including hospitality, manufacturing, down stream (ancillary) industries, information technology, education and training, support services to construction, tourism and gas.

Sharaka provides funding to existing or proposed project investment not exceeding OR1m, with funding support ranging from OR10,000/- to OR200,000.

Entrepreneurs who wish to avail of such fund will have the chance to forge tie-ups with Sharaka Youth Fund at the upcoming Franchise and Retail Expo, which is organized by Oman International Trade and Exhibitions.