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MBRE and 'Potential' Launches 'SME Evolution Programme' in Arabic

Programme to enable global access to SME's

Dubai-UAE: 3 May, 2011 - Dubai SME, the SME development agency of the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai and Potential , a leading UAE-based business development company, today announced the launch of the Arabic version of its 'SME Evolution Programme' in a bid to enhance the initiative's reach and invite heightened participation from small and medium business enterprises (SMEs).

The SME Evolution Programme, launched in partnership with Dubai SME, the SME development agency of the Department of Economic Development (DED) in Dubai, is the first of its kind free web-training that offers practical support to enterprises and enables them to compete effectively on the international marketplace.

His Excellency Abdul Basit Al Janahi, CEO of Dubai SME, commented: "launching the programme is in line with our strategy to enable SME's to expand their business regionally and internationally. At Dubai SME we strive to adopt the latest technologies and innovations that improve the performance of SME. The initiative also creates a strong support system for SMEs and entrepreneurs seeking to spread their wings and leverage business networks in line with the directives of H.H Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President, Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai".

Al Janahi added: "SMEs, which account for over 95 per cent of the private enterprises in Dubai, are leading economic growth and job creation in the UAE today. It is therefore a top priority that this sector has access to leading edge knowledge, technology, funding and markets."

Over 100 entrepreneurs and SME sector experts attended the launch during a workshop at the Department of Economic Development 's (DED) 'Dubai SME' offices. The launch was also attended by Potential 's local partners including Union National Bank (UNB), as well as regional partners MEVP, AllWorld, Aramex, Google, Intel, Zawya.

The workshop agenda included a presentation on the programme with Potential 's regional partners offering industry perceptions. Following a comprehensive Q&A session, an online live test of the programme was conducted for the benefit of the SMEs. Registration for the Arabic version of the SME Evolution Programme commenced immediately after the conclusion of the workshop.

The SME Evolution Programme offers an opportunity for SMEs to register in a free interactive business development initiative. It allows participants to gain best practices for improving business efficiency, expanding businesses and competing internationally. It also facilitates the creation of new job opportunities and provides valuable exposure to emerging enterpreneurs.

Over an initial period of six months, the SME Evolution Programme delivers a valuable blend of more than 50 free 'webinars' or online interactive training sessions, in addition to live workshops. The learning is provided in collaboration with professors from top international universities.

Shadi Banna, Managing Partner of Potential , said: "Since launching the SME Evolution Programme in February 2011, more than 300 business owners and directors have registered and continued to gain from this pragmatic initiative. The Arabic version of the programme seeks to fulfil the regional demand for such niche solutions that can effectively reach out to engage more businesses in the region.

"We aim to have the programme easily accessible to the regional market, showcase our work and provide all support needed for SMEs to grow and excel in every possible environment. We urge companies to partner with the programme and educate businesses on ways to expand and achieve optimum growth."

Essam Zahran, Vice-President and Department Manager, SME Business Banking, Union National Bank (UNB), said: "As a UAE-based banking institution providing personal and corporate banking services, we joined the programme to participate in the process of helping SMEs learn more about financing opportunities. We are glad to be part of this significant initiative and look forward to sharing key information and relevant experience with the participants."

The SME Evolution Programme offers a unique opportunity for small businesses to grow. Through the concept, Potential also aims to help SMEs network with their peers throughout the Middle East and gain support from each other as well as from mentors that are assigned to answer questions and enquiries.

For more information, you can visit www.potential.com.

-Ends-

About Dubai SME:
In September 2009, His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, UAE Vice President & Prime Minister and Ruler of Dubai issued Law No.23 of 2009 concerning the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for SME Development, one of the Department of Economic Development establishments, recently renamed as the Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Young Business Leaders (Dubai SME). The new law confirms the commitment of Dubai Government to support the development of SMEs sector.

The law defines the goals and responsibilities of the establishment. Given that SMEs include 98.5% of registered business in Dubai, with 61% of the work force working in this sector. The law aims to strengthen Dubai's position as a centre for entrepreneurship and enterprise development based on innovation and intellectual property.

For more information, please contact:
Iman Ahmed / Tara basrur
ASDA'A Burson-Marsteller
Tel: 050 2058021 / 050 4692774
Fax: (+971 4) 334 4556
E-mail: i.ahmed@asdaa.com / t.basrur@asdaa.com

© Press Release 2011