Bahrain Acts Fast to Save Small Businesses
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During the workshop, Bahrain Chamber also presented an overview of its role in supporting SMEs through its newly established Small and Medium Enterprises and Complaints Department. Created as part of the Chamber’s 31st Board of Directors strategy, the department focuses on assisting the sector that represents the majority of Bahrain’s private enterprises and serves as a major driver of economic growth.
The Chamber explained that the department acts as a specialized institutional platform that receives inquiries from business owners, follows up on complaints and observations with government entities and works to resolve issues through clear and efficient mechanisms. It also maintains a network of liaison officers across ministries and government agencies to facilitate communication and accelerate the resolution of challenges facing the private sector.
In addition, the Chamber said the department will conduct regular field visits to commercial markets and business locations and maintain close coordination with sector committees to identify challenges directly and develop practical solutions that support growth and long-term sustainability.
Meanwhile, Ahmed Al Janahi, Director of Public Affairs at Tamkeen, delivered a detailed presentation on the Musanada Program, explaining that it was launched to support the stability and recovery of micro, small and medium enterprises impacted by recent regional aggression. The program seeks to help businesses continue operations, preserve jobs and maintain economic activity through a range of financial and operational support measures.
Al Janahi said the initiative is structured around three main support tracks.
The first track provides direct support to businesses affected by infrastructure damage, restricted access or security-related disruptions. Eligible enterprises may receive grants based on the extent of damage and actual repair costs, as well as assistance with fixed recurring expenses.
The second track offers operational expense grants covering essential business costs for up to three months, provided that participating businesses retain their Bahraini workforce.
The third track focuses on financing support, offering a 100% subsidy on financing profit charges for working capital loans through the SME Fund. The support includes a grace period of up to 12 months and repayment terms extending to a maximum of three years.
Al Janahi noted that the second and third tracks target several key economic sectors, including transport and logistics, manufacturing, professional, scientific and technical activities, administrative and support services, tourism, accommodation and food services, as well as vehicle and motorcycle trade and repair activities.
The Musanada Program is open to micro, small and medium enterprises classified by the Ministry of Industry and Commerce that are at least 50% privately owned. Eligible applicants must maintain an active bank account, submit recent financial statements and comply with the requirements of relevant authorities.
Applications can be submitted through Tamkeen’s online portal or via Bahrain Development Bank (BDB). Required documentation includes an active commercial registration, copies of owners’ CPRs, recent bank statements, financial records and supporting operational cost documents.
Tamkeen confirmed that applications for the program will remain open for three months, subject to the specified eligibility criteria.
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