The Oman Chamber of Commerce and Industry (OCCI) branch in Dhofar Governorate recently discussed the role of the Oman Future Fund and the potential partnership between the public and private sectors. The focus was on incentivizing bold investments and providing financing opportunities for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). The OCCI branch organized a briefing to enlighten entrepreneurs and stakeholders on these opportunities. Rashid Sultan Al Hashmi, Senior Investment Manager of Oman Future Fund, provided a visual presentation on the fund, highlighting that it has a portfolio of OMR2 billion over a period of 5 years, with annual investments of OMR400 million.
One of the key points made during the briefing was that the Oman Future Fund aims to lead investments in direct local projects through partnerships or lending, with investment amounts ranging from OMR5 million to OMR100 million and a maximum ownership of 40%. Additionally, the fund plans to invest up to RO 5 million in small and medium enterprises and start-up companies through equity share partnerships. However, it was noted that the fund excludes investments in the oil, gas, and real estate sectors. The primary objective of the fund is to strengthen the economy, empower the private sector, support SMEs, promote venture capital, drive economic diversification, foster investment partnerships, align with government financing projects, and attract investors.
During the gathering, discussion panels were held to discuss topics such as the application process for the fund, project evaluation procedures, lending conditions, funding schemes, business plans, required licenses, and corporate commercial registration. These discussions aimed to provide attendees with a comprehensive understanding of the fund and the various opportunities it presents for businesses and entrepreneurs in Oman. The focus was on providing guidance on accessing funding, navigating the application process, and ensuring compliance with the necessary regulations and requirements.
Entrepreneurs and stakeholders were encouraged to explore the potential partnership opportunities with the Oman Future Fund and leverage the financing options available for their projects and businesses. The fund represents a valuable resource for those looking to expand their operations, invest in new ventures, or access capital to support their growth and development. By fostering collaboration between the public and private sectors, the fund aims to drive economic growth, promote innovation, and create a more dynamic business environment in Oman. This initiative aligns with the country’s broader efforts to diversify its economy, attract investment, and support the development of SMEs.
