Entrepreneurs in world have to strive to be innovative in their new businesses instead of going the traditional way. As the business environment is constantly changing, new ideas are cultivated, advanced technologies are being introduced, thus increasing the scope and opportunities for new business developments. Along with new opportunities new challenges and obstacles are also being faced by entrepreneurs.

The 3rd Middle East SME Forum 2012, which is being held on the 17 – 18 September 2012 at Rocco Forte Hotel Abu Dhabi aims to provide ideal prospect to bring together industry peers to present and participate in intriguing sessions and panel discussions to identify and enhance the growth of SMEs in the region.

“As any other economy in the world, the economies of the Middle East countries are also driven by the SME sector. As such, there are huge opportunities within this sector for economic growth and business for the banking sector. The challenge is for banks to not only recognize this huge opportunity but to also build capacity to tap it,” said Kaiser H. Naseem, Program Manager, Bank Advisory Services MENA, International Finance Corporation.

Naseem is one of the key panellists featuring at the panel discussion titled Being Innovative when starting a new business. Session on the opportunities and challenges in developing a small business will be addressed by Abdullah Al Jufaili, General Manager SHARAKAH, Fund for Development of Youth Projects (S.A.O.C).

According to Julfaili, “Challenges related to the economic environment, challenges related to the culture and challenges related to the entrepreneurial capacity of the individuals” His presentation will provide in-depth knowledge through the following verticals:

• Adequate utilization of Financing Start-ups.
• Performance Measurement and Organizational Excellence.
• Facilitating Entrepreneurs to tackle dilemmas.

Hassan A. Al-hazeem, Managing Director of Intercoil Group of Companies, will be emphasising on expanding business opportunities across geographical borders. His presentation topic will feature pointers on young entrepreneurs to think beyond legislative challenges, “Entrepreneurs should be always motivated. Thinking big is important; it does not mean that if you are a small company you cannot have big objectives or policies. You have to believe in your business plan and what you do. Most importantly, do not let your profitability be the only indicator of your progress. Strategic long term planning aligned with organization’s vision is the key success factor. In additional, developing a learning organization that will easily adapt to changing market conditions.”

Key decision makers from across industries in the region will be participating and narrating their success stories to show the path forward and help to cope challenges in order to boost the SME growth and economy.