The Enterprise Development Support Agency of Bahrain’s labour fund Tamkeen reached a significant milestone, having served more than 750 enterprises since the start of the programme’s second phase.

Nearly BD2.8 million ($7.4 million) was contributed by Tamkeen in support over the second phase that has spanned almost two years.

The enterprises represent a broad cross-section of sectors and industries within Bahrain, with the majority coming from the wholesale and retail, manufacturing, information and communication technology, construction, and tourism, and agriculture sectors respectively.

Nearly one-third of the beneficiaries were businesswomen.

Nearly 2,400 business owners attended the orientation sessions held five times a week at the agency's offices in Seef.

The sessions clarify how businesses work and common challenges that may face them, as well as detailing the wide array of tools offered through the schemes to avoid these challenges and put the enterprise on the right track towards growth and prosperity.

The agency's representatives conducted more than 850 site visits to the enterprises' premises to assess their current standing and track their progress to ensure the proper implementation of the recommendations given to them.

Tamkeen's Enterprise Development Support Programme experienced a significant jump in signups since the updates to the programme's benefits and eligibility criteria went into effect on June 1. – TradeArabia News Service