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SCW opens nominations for fifth round of Imtiyaz Initiative for Young Bahraini Entrepreneurs
The Supreme Council for Women (SCW) has opened nominations for the fifth round of the Imtiyaz Initiative for Young Bahraini Entrepreneurs, which aims to encourage outstanding young female talent in the field of entrepreneurship, highlight their success stories, and showcase the achievements of Bahraini women in business.
Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa Al Khalifa, Chairperson of the Imtiyaz Initiative Committee, emphasised that the initiative, launched under the directives of Her Royal Highness Princess Sabeeka bint Ibrahim Al Khalifa, Consort of His Majesty the King and President of the SCW, has gained increasing momentum since its inception. Participation grew from 11 applicants in the first round to 98 in the fourth, covering a wide range of sectors.
Speaking at a press conference held at the SCW headquarters, Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa noted that the initiative serves as a key tool for supporting the economic empowerment of Bahraini women and increasing their contribution to national entrepreneurship. The initiative also reflects the SCW’s commitment to equal opportunity, encouraging the development of projects with the potential to expand beyond the local market and enabling entrepreneurs to maintain a balance between business and family responsibilities.
Shaikha Hessa bint Khalifa commended the ongoing efforts of the committee and the support of partner institutions, which continue to work alongside the initiative to ensure the sustainability, expansion, and success of the participating ventures. She invited young women entrepreneurs in Bahrain to share their success stories and apply for the fifth round.
A documentary was screened at the press conference, highlighting the initiative’s evolution since its establishment by HRH Princess Sabeeka bit Ibrahim through Edict (10) of 2011. Evaluation criteria for the Imtiyaz award include creativity and distinction in entrepreneurship, project sustainability and risk management, digital transformation, contribution to local employment in line with equal opportunity principles, impact on society, export potential, and voluntary community engagement that reflects social responsibility.
Eligible applicants must be Bahraini nationals aged 45 or under, with a minimum of three years of entrepreneurial experience. Applicants must also submit a financial report and hold a valid commercial license with at least 50% ownership or partnership in a business that is engaged in trade, services, or sales.