Khalifa Fund Launches SWAN Programme to Empower Female Emirati-Led Home Businesses

Photo : Abu Dhabi Media Office

The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED) has launched the SWAN programme, an initiative designed to empower ambitious Emirati women entrepreneurs who run home-based businesses in Abu Dhabi. This programme emphasizes mental wellbeing, mindfulness, and leadership skills development, aiming to help these women transition their startups into sustainable, licensed commercial enterprises. SWAN encourages participants to shift their focus from personal goals to contributing to the development of Abu Dhabi's economy.

The initiative builds on the substantial presence of UAE National women in the business sector. According to a 2021 survey by NAMA Women Advancement and UN Women, 25,000 Emirati women entrepreneurs held 50,000 trade licenses. SWAN seeks to further this momentum, enriching the SME ecosystem by amplifying the contributions of Emirati women entrepreneurs and enhancing their economic impact.

Over a period of six to eight weeks, 10-15 Emirati women will engage in intensive training that includes six workshops and business coaching sessions. These sessions are designed to help participants transition their home-based businesses into sustainable, licensed commercial enterprises. The programme begins with a Mental Wellbeing workshop, deemed essential for leading a successful business and achieving work-life balance. Additional workshops cover the Business Model Canvas, Business Plan and Financials, Sales Techniques and Marketing Strategies, Customer Value and Loyalty, and Business Sustainability. Upon successful completion, participants will be eligible for a share of a AED1 million grant to support their businesses, with success stories celebrated on Emirati Women’s Day on August 28, 2024.

Stay informed with the latest news. Follow DXB News Network on WhatsApp Channel  

Alia Abdullah Al Mazrouei, CEO of KFED, stated, "The launch of the SWAN programme aligns with the National Policy for Empowerment of Emirati Women - 2031, initiated by Her Highness Sheikha Fatima bint Mubarak. This underscores our commitment to supporting the aspirations of Emirati women in entrepreneurship. The programme will refine participants' personal and business skills, enrich their understanding of entrepreneurial fundamentals, and bolster their potential to establish successful enterprises. This experience will reshape their approach to entrepreneurship, elevating their objectives to include social responsibility and active contribution to Abu Dhabi's economy."

Besides training and financial backing, the SWAN programme will offer participants opportunities to access local and global markets, expand their reach, and enhance their brand visibility. This support is provided by Khalifa Fund and its strategic partners, who will offer post-programme assistance.

Since its inception, KFED has been a strong supporter of women's entrepreneurial journeys. The fund has provided up to AED225 million in funding to 371 businesses owned by women entrepreneurs, while 21,189 women have benefited from its workshops and training programmes. KFED has also collaborated with international and local entities on various initiatives, such as the Facebook initiative "She Means Business" in the UAE and the "Empowering Female Entrepreneurs" initiative with the Al Bayt Mitwahid Association.

The application window for the SWAN programme is currently open. Eligible applicants are ambitious Emirati women who have successfully managed a revenue-generating home-based business in Abu Dhabi and demonstrate self-readiness, resilience, and creativity. Women who meet the criteria are invited to apply and submit their applications.