Salalah – Oman should develop an integrated national framework for social investment, backed by stronger partnerships, measurable impact indicators and new financing tools, according to recommendations issued at the conclusion of the Social Investment and Sustainable Development 2026 forum in Salalah on Monday.

The two-day event, organised by the Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry through its Social Investment Centre, called for a more coordinated system capable of addressing social and development challenges while moving beyond traditional charitable contributions.

The recommendations included strengthening cooperation between government entities, the private sector, community organisations and academic institutions, alongside adopting clear governance and impact-measurement standards.

Participants also called for financing instruments and incentives to help social initiatives progress from ideas to sustainable projects, as well as greater capacity-building for entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises.

The forum focused on translating discussion into practical solutions, with sessions covering empowerment, institutional capacity, partnerships and innovative financing.

A Youth Centre session examined the role of young people as partners in creating social impact, while Sultan Qaboos University’s Community Service Centre highlighted how academic and research expertise could be better connected with community needs.

Parallel workshops under the theme ‘From Dialogue to Solutions’ explored four areas: partnerships and incentives, capacity building, empowerment and integration, and innovative financing.

The financing track examined mechanisms that could help social projects secure resources, reach implementation and achieve long-term financial sustainability.

Another session focused on equipping individuals and institutions with the knowledge and skills needed to design, implement and evaluate initiatives more effectively.

The chamber said the approach should focus on investing in people, ideas and solutions while creating partnerships capable of delivering sustainable social, economic and environmental impact.