Muscat – The Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (ASMED) has hosted a workshop in Buraimi governorate on Monday, as part of its continuing efforts to support entrepreneurs and owners of emerging businesses.

The workshop was held to provide participants with the skills required to manage their projects effectively, while also introducing them to the latest initiatives and services offered by ASMED to enhance the growth and competitiveness of small and medium enterprises (SMEs).

An official from the authority said the programme was tailored for SME owners and entrepreneurs in Buraimi. “It will focus on helping participants develop their businesses, strengthen administrative capabilities, and gain expertise in areas such as market strategies and digital marketing,” the official noted.

Looking ahead, ASMED aims to finance at least 300 enterprises across various sectors in 2025. The authority also reported that 400 financing requests were approved under the ‘Azm’ lending portfolio by the end of September 2024, with total disbursements exceeding RO37.6mn.

In collaboration with the Development Bank, ASMED has launched nine financing programmes to support entrepreneurs in scaling their businesses locally and abroad. The programmes also intend to encourage jobseekers and aspiring entrepreneurs to take advantage of new opportunities emerging within Oman.