UNIDO ITPO Marks 13 Years in Bahrain,
UN Secretary-General Highlights Private Sector’s Role
Focus on Green, Blue, and Orange Economies
Bahrain has once again positioned itself as a hub for global entrepreneurship, hosting over 700 delegates from 86 countries at the 6th World Entrepreneurs Investment Forum. The gathering showcased innovation, collaboration, and inclusive economic growth as central themes for shaping a sustainable future.
Dr. Hashim Hussein, Head of UNIDO ITPO Bahrain, reflected on the Kingdom’s long-standing commitment to empowering entrepreneurs. “For 13 years, UNIDO ITPO has supported Bahrain’s mission to provide skills, finance, and opportunities to entrepreneurs. Alongside the 25-year success of the Bahrain enterprise development model, we are demonstrating that entrepreneurship is a powerful driver of social and economic transformation,” he said.
Dr. Hussein emphasized the need for inclusive entrepreneurship, highlighting initiatives that support entrepreneurs with disabilities, creative home-based businesses, and ventures in the green, blue, and orange economies. “These efforts help build sustainable ecosystems, strengthen communities, and unlock opportunities for generations to come,” he added.
Addressing the forum, Dr. Hussein noted the challenges of today’s world, including rapidly evolving technologies, climate pressures, and economic uncertainty. “Every challenge presents an opportunity—to innovate smarter, collaborate deeper, and amplify the voices of those shaping our future,” he said. Young innovators are increasingly leading green enterprises, embracing digital economies, and developing solutions that benefit entire communities, while women entrepreneurs continue to prove that empowering women strengthens national and global economies.
Dr. Khaled Hanafy, Secretary General of the Union of Arab Chambers, highlighted the critical role of finance in achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). “SMEs account for 90% of businesses worldwide and contribute around 60% of global employment, yet they only access 30% of available financing,” he said. He emphasized that forums like this are vital to align entrepreneurs, investors, and governments, bridging gaps in finance, regulation, and market access. Dr. Hanafy also lauded Bahrain’s leadership for creating a business-friendly environment through Vision 2015 and Vision 2030, which has positioned the Kingdom as a regional center for innovation and private sector growth.
A message from UN Secretary-General António Guterres, delivered by Mr. Khaled El Mekwad, United Nations Resident Coordinator in Bahrain, highlighted the forum’s global significance. “The private sector is essential for driving inclusive economic growth, creating jobs, fostering innovation, and advancing climate action. Micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises generate two-thirds of global employment and half of the world’s GDP. By supporting entrepreneurs, we can ensure economic resilience and sustainable development for all,” the message read.
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