'Getting Down to Business' Conference gets underway

The special guests include His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Higher Education. Prominent businessmen, aspiring entrepreneurs and small and medium-sized enterprises (SME's) from various industries will also be in attendance.

Sharjah Tatweer Forum aims to promote the abundant investment opportunities in the Emirate of Sharjah, giving young people an opportunity to learn about the huge potential in the business sector.

The distinguished speakers include His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak, Minister of Higher Education, who will elaborate on the importance of education in boosting the economy and attracting investments by encouraging a creative and innovative generation, in the hope of creating a faster pathway to entrepreneurship.

Entrepreneurship is now getting increased attention due to its growing role in driving the economy, especially SME's. Additionally, young Emiratis are taking the lead in diversifying the economy, enhancing the status of the UAE regionally and globally.

The Ministry of the Economy will play a vital role in creating a supportive legal framework that encourages new SME's. His Excellency Sultan Bin Saeed Al Mansouri, Minister of the Economy, will expand on this topic in his recorded speech. His Undersecretary, His Excellency Mohamed Al Shehhi, will explain the steps taken by the ministry to accelerate the entrance of new entrepreneurs into the industry, while supporting those who have already started new businesses.

US President Barack Obama has already announced that part of his foreign policy will be targeted towards encouraging entrepreneurship in the Middle East. The U.S. Consul General in the UAE, Rob Waller, will attend the conference to discuss the similarities and differences between the American and the Emirati experience when it comes to businesses.

Mr Jassim Al Balushi, Chairman of Sharjah Tatweer Forum, is expected to tackle a number of issues affecting entrepreneurs, such as the new legislation and initiatives that have been launched recently as well as the role of the private sector and civil society to support entrepreneurship in coordination with government efforts.

The "Getting Down to Business" conference is seen as a major step in defining the types of entrepreneurships and raising awareness about their growth potentials. This includes digital entrepreneurship, social entrepreneurship, media, finance, fashion, art and more. To motivate the audience, success stories will form a large part of the agenda on the first day.

The conference is unique in the UAE due to its launch of the "TAM" initiative, which seeks to link entrepreneurs with investors who can fund their projects. Investment banks, government agencies and other entities will join hands in sponsoring SME's projects and cultivating a more productive economic climate in the emirate.

The Forum offers a broad spectrum of services such as programs and training courses with internationally accredited qualifications. The Forum also conducts economic research studies and proposes recommendations for the relevant authorities to implement.

Sharjah Tatweer Forum was established in 2005 through a decree by His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member, Ruler of Sharjah and Honorary Chairman of Sharjah Tatweer Forum.