Business Weekly

Tamkeen reaches out

August 26 - September 1, 2009
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Tamkeen aims to assist an additional 1,000 new Bahraini enterprises as part of its Enterprise Development Scheme (EDS).

The EDS, an innovative capacity-building programme, supports Bahraini private sector businesses and has already helped more than 900.

Tamkeen has appointed KPMG Fakhro as the executing partner agency for the EDS programme's second four-year phase which begins in November.

The contract was signed this week between Tamkeen's chief executive Abdulelah Al Qassimi and KPMG Fakhro's chairman, Jamal Fakhro.

The EDS enable beneficiaries to take advantage of a selection of programmes such as the co-financed technical assistance, growth assistance, business development and a recently-introduced quality management scheme that facilitates quality certification of companies.

"The EDS programme works at many levels to maximise the potential and growth of Bahraini enterprises," said Mr Al Qassimi, "whether it is a project to upgrade the technical facilities or overhaul the administrative processes after due consultation with experts; whether it is to draw up a blueprint for improved business or put in place certified quality processes or even support for international exposure through participation in international events, the EDS offers guidance and co-financed support to Bahraini enterprises."

He added that the appointment of KPMG Fakhro as EDS Agency (EDSA) will help it to speed up the day-to-day operational activities involved in administering the programme.

"As Tamkeen moves to put in place the core strengths for Bahraini enterprises to become active players in our kingdom's 'Vision 2030' progress, the partnership of KPMG Fakhro, with its world-class administrative capabilities, will undoubtedly help us to give beneficiaries the advantage of a long-term government commitment and a quick turnaround thanks to a private sector approach to managing the programmes," he added.

"KPMG's involvement as EDSA partner will streamline the paperwork and enable smooth access to Tamkeen's different growth and productivity-enhancing programmes," said Jamal Fakhro, "Tamkeen is targeting 1,000 beneficiaries in Phase II of the EDSA and KPMG Fakhro will do everything possible to help meet this target."







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