ahli islamic Launches ahli tamkeen SME Academy to Empower SMEs for Sustainable Growth

Muscat: Reaffirming its commitment to a stronger and more dynamic SME sector, ahli islamic has officially launched the first edition of ahli tamkeen SME Academy, a comprehensive capacity-building program designed to advance the capabilities of Omani entrepreneurs and SME leaders. The three-month program brings together 25 participants from a range of vital economic sectors and combines practical learning, specialized knowledge and personalized guidance to help  entrepreneurs strengthen their business preparedness, respond effectively to changing market conditions and unlock opportunities for future growth.

The program covers several key areas, including financial management, access to finance, marketing and digital transformation, and is delivered by Protiviti. Participants were selected from SME owners who registered their interest in the program, through one-to-one interviews with both Riyada Card holders and non-holders, to understand their needs and the challenges they face in the market and in growing their businesses.

The initiative reflects ahli islamic’s belief that the long-term success of SMEs depends not only on financial resources, but also on the capabilities, knowledge and confidence required to make prudent business decisions. Through a combination of focused workshops and one-to-one guidance, the Academy gives participants the opportunity to examine key areas of their businesses, sharpen their decision-making and identify new opportunities. The program also encourages knowledge-sharing among participating entrepreneurs, creating an environment conducive to learning and continued development.

As an important contributor to the nation’s economic diversification and private-sector development, the SME sector plays a vital role in overall socio-economic progress. Recognizing this role, ahli islamic’s investment in the Academy reflects its broader commitment to responsible and purposeful growth, grounded in the principles of Islamic finance. The initiative also reinforces the bank’s alignment with the objectives of Oman Vision 2040 and its emphasis on entrepreneurship and private-sector development, supporting homegrown enterprises in raising business standards, pursuing excellence and innovation, and creating value that extends to the communities in which they operate.

Through ahli tamkeen SME Academy, ahli islamic continues to reinforce its commitment to empowering SMEs, extending its role beyond providing financial solutions to helping businesses build capabilities, enhance competitiveness and achieve sustainable growth. By investing in the development of Omani enterprises, ahli Islamic is contributing to a more resilient, competitive and future-ready SME sector.