A GCC based entrepreneurial reality television show is accepting applications from entrepreneurs in Oman, according to the Small and Medium Enterprise Development Authority.
The third season of Bahrain-based 'Beban', will allow entrepreneurs to pitch their businesses to a panel of investors in exchange for equity investments and potential business opportunities.
Qais Rashid al Tobi, General Supervisor of the Promising Omani Startups Program at the Authority, shared the following, “This collaboration expands the potential for Oman's startups, by utilizing the program's widespread success, promising opportunities, and connections to investors in various industries."
During its first two seasons, the show resulted in investments worth over $6 million.
The Chairman of the Board of Directors of Hope Fund, the producing entity behind the show, added: "This cooperation with the Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority will provide entrepreneurs and existing project owners in the Sultanate of Oman with the tools they need to develop their projects while highlighting them regionally through the program. It will also enhance knowledge exchange between entrepreneurs.”
Potential candidates will undergo a five-step evaluation process before being selected to be featured in the show. This will include a screening process to ensure the viability of businesses, an evaluation stage
overseen by field experts, an intensive training bootcamp, followed by the selection of candidates.
The show which has featured 62 business so far, was established by the investment subsidiary of Hope Fund “Hope Ventures”. The fund was originally established in 2020 under the directive of the Bahraini monarch to support local businesses and foster an entrepreneurial mindset.
Oman Observer is now on the WhatsApp channel. Click here
