In a collaborative effort, the Saudi General Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises, in partnership with the Ministry of Education, has launched the “Future Entrepreneur” initiative. The aim is to instill a culture of entrepreneurship, freelance work, and innovation among the emerging generation, providing them with the essential skills and knowledge to start their own successful commercial ventures.
- Objective of the initiative
- Components of the initiative
- Impact of the Future Entrepreneur initiative
- Widespread participation
The initiative’s goal is to empower students in general education by:
- Acquiring cognitive skills: The program will equip students with foundational knowledge and skills for starting their commercial ventures, including planning, execution, marketing, and financial management.
- Enhancing problem-solving skills: Students will learn to identify challenges faced by entrepreneurs and devise innovative solutions.
- Developing teamwork skills: The initiative provides opportunities for students to work together on projects, fostering teamwork and communication.
The “Future Entrepreneur” initiative comprises three main programs:
- Foundational Entrepreneurial Skills Program: This program includes 6 narrative educational videos per grade level, introducing students to basic entrepreneurship concepts.
- Entrepreneurs’ Market Program: Markets are organized in 5 Saudi cities (Riyadh, Dammam, Abha, Hail, Jeddah) allowing students to display and sell their products and services to the public.
- Entrepreneurial Challenge Contest: This contest includes competitions designed to encourage students to find innovative solutions to real-world entrepreneurial challenges, with cash prizes and incentives for winners.
The initiative aspires to create a positive and lasting impact on the youth by:
- Creating a generation of entrepreneurs: By equipping students with necessary skills and knowledge, the initiative contributes to fostering a generation of innovative entrepreneurs.
- Supporting the national economy: The student-led ventures are expected to diversify the national economy and create new job opportunities.
- Enhancing the culture of innovation: The initiative aims to bolster a culture of innovation and creativity among students, benefiting them in all life aspects.
The initiative has seen wide participation from students across the kingdom, with over 17,000 beneficiaries registering on the initiative’s website. In Riyadh alone, an entrepreneurs’ market was activated with 30 projects out of 83 registered ones. The “Future Entrepreneur” initiative is a pioneering effort aimed at empowering the young generation by fostering a culture of entrepreneurship and innovation, equipping them with the skills required for successful commercial endeavors. It represents a significant investment in the future of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, promising a more diversified and innovative economy.
