Khalifa Fund launches e-commerce acceleration programme to boost SMEs’ digital capacity

Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development has officially announced the launch of the e-commerce acceleration programme. It is a training programme that focuses on helping entrepreneurs with their e-commerce capabilities.

The programme helps deliver real results that impact the entrepreneur’s bottom line, generate profit, expand their brand’s exposure and improve customer engagement. It will roll out as a five day capacity building workshop which will provide entrepreneurs with an e-commerce readiness assessment; how to set up an e-commerce store and develop an operational model; how to drive traffic to and build awareness of the store; and how entrepreneurs can measure their marketing and sales. The programme will take place on September 21, 22, 28, 29 and October 4.

Alia Al Mazrouei, CEO, Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, stated: “The retail space has seen substantial changes in recent years, with the evolution of digital technologies and their integration into the retail market. It’s now essential for entrepreneurs to understand how to apply e-commerce practices to their businesses. Understanding digital has become a prerequisite to entering the market, whereas in previous times it was only for a select few of innovative businesses. Thus, we see it as our duty and responsibility as the UAE’s leading enterprise developer to equip our entrepreneurs with digital resources and industry insights through programmes such as this.”

She added: “I look forward to seeing the outcomes from this innovative programme which encourages entrepreneurs to meet and surpass industry standards. Those that showcase a high level of expertise and scalability within their businesses will be invited to attend a special extension of the programme, where we will enable them to expand their businesses over an eight–week course.”

Entrepreneurs who apply to be part of the inaugural edition will be required to meet a strict criterion to be accepted. Hopeful applicants will have to meet a set criterion which will comprise of, but not be limited to, enterprise size, the types of products that are sold, previous experience with e-commerce and overall business expertise.

Applications are currently open and will be accepted until September 14. Applicants will be informed about the status of their application on September 15. If successful they will be required to make a one-time payment of Dhs350.

Read: How fintech is shaping the future of e-commerce