The business organization, Arab Business Leaders will launch an investment platform dedicated to European small and medium capitalization companies willing to establish in the GCC countries.
The investment operations will begin by end of 2015 with USD 5 million. The target is USD 100 million by end of 2016. The fund will be initially funded by European investors and GCC investors must also join in 2016.
The platform will mainly (but not only) focuses on mature Western European SMEs in the ICT, healthcare, education and infrastructure industries.
It will provide funding in the form of loans or equities and hold a portfolio of 10 to 15 investments selected for the positive impact on the GCC region: job creation and innovative technology. The platform will work closely with local GCC groups to facilitate joint-venture operations.
"This new platform will provide an exciting opportunity to support European SMEs in their development strategy in the GCC, one of the fastest growing regions in the World. This platform enrolled in the vision of Arab Business Leaders to build business bridges between the GCC and Europe and attract the most innovative European companies to the region." said Houssam Nasrawin, president of Arab Business Leaders. He added "European equities are still cheap despite the fact that European SMEs are highly competitive. Investors must take advantage of this situation"
About Arab Business Leaders
Arab Business Leaders is an independent business organization meant to promote entrepreneurship and business initiatives between the Arab World and the rest of the countries, mainly Europe and Africa. ABL has today partners and members in 37 countries.
ABL's missions are:
1. Promoting the MENA region as an international business hub to encourage bilateral trades: ABL organizes international events and promotes Arab countries in international media.
2. Connecting Arab professionals to top business and political decision makers all around the World and working with governments to encourage bilateral trades with Arab countries.
3. Fostering entrepreneurship in Arab countries through mentorship programs, university partnerships and venture funds.
Contact details:
Communication department
Leila Haddad
lhaddad@arabbusinessleaders.com
www.arabbusinessleaders.com
© Press Release 2015
