Emirates Development Bank (EDB) has launched a bootcamp designed to equip young Emiratis with essential entrepreneurial skills related to the bank’s five priority sectors – advanced technology, food security, healthcare, renewables, and manufacturing. 

The Students Entrepreneurship Bootcamp (August 19-22) targets UAE national students aged 16-21, who will engage in training workshops conducted by the Emirates Institute of Finance (EIF), which will guide them in transforming their business ideas into viable opportunities.

The workshops cover the fundamentals of entrepreneurship and include skill development in market research, strategic planning, branding, financial planning, problem-solving, and effective pitching and communication.

The bootcamp features mentorship sessions to build confidence in starting a business, offering insights and lessons learned from subject matter experts and successful UAE-based entrepreneurs.

Participants hope to gain valuable perspectives on accelerator programmess such as Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center “Sheraa”, Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund & Accelerator “MBRIF”, and Intelak Hub, as well as insights into government initiatives that support young students aspiring to start businesses in the UAE.

Guest speakers include Akram Amir, Founder & CEO of Augmented Reality Engineering; Ahmad Al Falasi, Founder & CEO of Transpright; Maryam Al Mansoori, Founder & General Manager of Rebound Plastic; and Marwan Alserkal, from the UAE’s AI Office.

"The Students Entrepreneurship Bootcamp reflects our commitment to empowering the next generation of Emirati entrepreneurs through quality training, fostering local talent, and promoting innovation," said Shaker Zainal, Chief Business Officer of Emirates Development Bank.

"As the UAE’s development bank, we do more than just provide financing; we aim to create a supportive environment where young Emiratis can develop their skills and thrive in a changing business landscape.

“We truly believe that empowering our youth is a pillar of sustainable economic growth; we count on their innovative ideas and talents for shaping the future of our economy."

Additionally, the bootcamp includes a field visit to a leading food manufacturing company, where senior executives and their team will guide participants on a factory tour.

Participants will explore robotics, learn about factory operations, and gain insights into supply chain management.

EDB provides innovative financing solutions for businesses of all sizes, focusing on financial inclusion and SME empowerment with long-term capital, trade finance, and credit guarantees. It also offers non-financial services like financial literacy and business advisory, fostering a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem for economic success. – TradeArabia News Service