On the sidelines of the Gateway Gulf Investment Forum, the Bahrain Labour Fund (Tamkeen) and the Mastercard Centre for Inclusive Growth announced the launch of the first Mastercard Strive Programme, a global small business programme, in Bahrain.

Through this partnership, Bahraini small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) will have the opportunity to enhance their financial and digital readiness, enabling them to improve operational efficiency and ensure the sustainability and growth of their business.

This collaboration aims to support SMEs in their growth, while encouraging the adoption of digital tools and technologies that can help expand their operations, reach new markets and ensure long-term sustainability for these enterprises.

This programme aligns with Tamkeen’s strategic priorities for 2025, which focus on enhancing the position and competitiveness of Bahrainis in the private sector, equipping Bahrainis with suitable skills for career development in the private sector, and prioritising enterprise growth, digitisation and sustainability.

Maha Abdulhameed Mofeez, Tamkeen’s Chief Executive, said the partnership supports Bahrain’s small and medium enterprise (SME) ecosystem, a key driver of the national economy and job creation for Bahraini talent. She explained that launching the region’s first Mastercard Strive programme aims to offer tailored solutions that help SMEs access resources, sustain their operations, and strengthen their contribution to economic growth.

Saud Swar, Senior Vice President and Country Manager for Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Jordan, and the Levant at Mastercard, said the partnership underscores the value of using innovative financial and digital solutions to empower SMEs across sectors. He noted that Mastercard Strive has been successful in other markets and, together with Tamkeen and Bahrain, aims to boost the efficiency and productivity of Bahraini small businesses to help them reach their growth goals.

Since its launch in 2020, the Mastercard Strive programme has reached millions of small businesses around the world with digital solutions, access to capital and networks and know-how. As of 2024, Mastercard Strive has reached more than 19 million micro, small and medium-sized enterprises globally.

This announcement was made on the sidelines of the 3rd Gateway Gulf Investment Forum, hosted by the Kingdom, with the participation of senior executives, government officials, and business leaders from around the world.