The third meeting of the Programme of Promising Omani Startups (POPS) Supervisory Committee in 2024 was chaired by HH Sayyid Belarab bin Haitham Al Said in Muscat. During the meeting, the progress made in developing and empowering the startups sector in Oman was discussed. The focus is on spreading the culture of entrepreneurship, utilizing innovative solutions, and exploring technical opportunities to accelerate the growth and sustainability of startups. The aim is to attract talented individuals and encourage them to propose ideas for projects that enhance economic diversification and place Oman on the map of attractive destinations for investors, including technology companies and venture capital investments.
The meeting also covered the incentives offered to Omani startups that leverage technology and innovation, as well as ways to enhance the progress of the initiative to implement startup accelerators. Additionally, the outcome of the “Future Pioneers” camps that were held during the summer vacation in coordination with the Ministry of Education in 11 governorates targeting over 500 students was reviewed. The POPS is supervised by the Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (ASMED), in cooperation with the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, the Ministry of Economy, and ITCHA group.
Overall, the meeting highlighted the importance of supporting and fostering the startups sector in Oman to boost economic growth and diversification. By encouraging entrepreneurship and innovative solutions, the country aims to attract investors and position itself as an attractive destination for technology companies and venture capital investments. The POPS initiative plays a crucial role in achieving these goals by offering incentives to startups and implementing accelerator programs to accelerate their growth and progress.
Furthermore, the meeting emphasized the significance of attracting and retaining talented individuals who can contribute fresh ideas and play a key role in establishing successful projects that enhance economic diversification in Oman. By creating a supportive environment for startups and providing them with the necessary resources and opportunities, the country can build a thriving ecosystem that fosters innovation and entrepreneurship. The outcome of the “Future Pioneers” camps is a testament to the success of such initiatives in engaging and inspiring young students to explore their potential and contribute to the growth of the startups sector.
In conclusion, the Supervisory Committee meeting of the Programme of Promising Omani Startups (POPS) in 2024 highlighted the progress made in developing the startups sector in Oman and the efforts to empower entrepreneurs and innovators in the country. By focusing on spreading the culture of entrepreneurship, utilizing innovative solutions, and exploring technical opportunities, Oman aims to accelerate the growth and sustainability of startups and attract investors to the country. With the support of various government agencies and organizations, including ASMED, the Ministry of Transport, Communications and Information Technology, the Ministry of Higher Education, Research and Innovation, the Ministry of Economy, and ITCHA group, the POPS initiative is well-positioned to drive the growth of the startups sector and contribute to the economic diversification of Oman.