Abu Dhabi's SME Champions Program Facilitates AED 672 Million in Deals in 2024
The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED) has announced significant results for its Abu Dhabi SME Champions Program, which facilitated 652 deals worth a total of AED 672 million in 2024. The initiative successfully connects small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the emirate with procurement opportunities from leading public and private institutions.
By the Numbers
AED 672 Million: The total value of deals facilitated for SMEs in 2024.
652: The number of deals forged between SMEs and large institutions.
2,235: The number of SMEs registered in the program, up from 835 in 2023.
20: Major strategic partners participating in the program.
A Bridge for Local SMEs
Launched in 2023 by the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, the SME Champions Program is designed to increase the share of procurement opportunities allocated to SMEs. The initiative provides a robust platform for business development, creating new pathways for local companies to participate in major private sector and government projects, thereby enhancing their contribution to GDP growth and fostering innovation in Abu Dhabi.
Leadership on Building a Sustainable Economy
Her Excellency Mouza Al Nasri, CEO of the Khalifa Fund, said: “The Abu Dhabi SME Champions Program acts as a bridge connecting SMEs in Abu Dhabi with leading institutions and government entities. This helps enhance the productivity and innovation within this vital business category, which is a cornerstone of the national economy. SMEs further play a pivotal role in catalysing Abu Dhabi’s sustainable growth, aligning with the UAE’s broader vision for economic development."
Fostering Growth Through Training and Partnerships
The program focuses heavily on developing the capabilities of local SMEs through awareness initiatives and skill-building workshops. To date, 13 bi-monthly training sessions have been conducted in collaboration with at least nine partners. The program's key participants include major entities such as the Abu Dhabi Department of Culture and Tourism, AD Ports Group, Miral Group, e&, Aldar Properties, Etihad Airways, Mubadala, and Masdar City, among others.
About the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development
The Khalifa Fund is an independent, non-profit organization affiliated with the Abu Dhabi Government. Its mission is to nurture a culture of entrepreneurship, promote innovation, and offer support for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) within the UAE through a balanced ecosystem.
Looking Ahead
The remarkable results of the Abu Dhabi SME Champions Program in just two years highlight its significant impact on building a sustainable and innovation-based economy. By creating tangible opportunities for local SMEs, the Khalifa Fund is playing a crucial role in the UAE’s aspirations to become a leading knowledge-based and competitive economy.
Source: Zawya