Feryal Nass, as the Founder and Chairwoman of the Bahrain Entrepreneurship Organisation (BEO), is a prominent figure in Bahrain’s business landscape. In this exclusive interview, she provides insights into her involvement with the World Business Angels Investment Forum (WBAF) and its impact on the Bahraini startup ecosystem. She also tells Woman This Month about the objectives of the BEO, the upcoming WBAF Congress in Bahrain, and offers valuable advice for aspiring female professionals.
Could you provide our readers with a brief introduction about yourself?
My name is Feryal Nass, and I have a background in Business Administration from Bahrain University. I’m currently pursuing a Master’s degree in political economics. Alongside that, I have extensive experience in entrepreneurship, having worked with the family business for more than 20 years and running my own design firm for interior design, joinery work and turnkey projects. Additionally, I’m deeply passionate about supporting startups, especially those led by women and youth.
Can you tell us about the Bahrain Entrepreneurship Organisation (BEO) and its objectives?
The (BEO) is a platform, launched in 2019, aimed at connecting local entrepreneurs with global markets. Our primary focus is on supporting startups, providing them with the necessary resources and connections to thrive in the competitive business world. We offer training programmes, mentorship and opportunities for startups to showcase their innovations on a global stage. We have signed different MoUs with different organisations, but one of the most important ones that we signed and are working with is the World Business Angel Investment Forum (WBAF).
What led to your involvement with the WBAF?
It stemmed from our desire to further expand the opportunities available to Bahraini startups. By partnering with WBAF, we gained access to a global network of investors and entrepreneurs, which has been invaluable in helping our startups access funding and expertise to grow their businesses. It is a global platform with more than 1,500 members from more than 180 countries. Therefore, it has a huge outreach and has a mandate to support startups.
What is the primary objective of the WBAF?
The primary objective is to support startups in securing smart finance to accelerate their growth. Through a global network of investors and entrepreneurs, WBAF facilitates connections that enable startups to access the funding and resources they need to succeed.
How has the WBAF impacted the Bahraini startup ecosystem since its establishment?
The WBAF has had a significant impact on the Bahraini startup ecosystem since its establishment. By providing access to global investors and training programmes, WBAF has helped Bahraini startups expand their networks, gain valuable insights, and secure funding to scale their businesses.
What can Bahrain-based businesses do to leverage the benefits offered by the WBAF?
Bahrain-based businesses can leverage the benefits offered by the WBAF by actively participating in training programmes, networking events and investment opportunities facilitated by the forum. By engaging with the global WBAF community, Bahraini businesses can gain exposure, access funding and forge valuable partnerships to fuel their growth.
Could you provide some insights into the upcoming WBAF Congress in Bahrain?
The upcoming Congress promises to be a dynamic event, bringing together policymakers, investors and entrepreneurs from around the world. With a focus on networking, learning and global fundraising opportunities, the congress presents a unique platform for Bahraini startups to showcase their innovations and connect with potential investors.
How can individuals interested in attending the WBAF Congress register for the event?
They can do this through the official WBAF website or follow updates on the WBAF Instagram account (@wbafbahrain). Registration will be open to all stakeholders in the entrepreneurial ecosystem, including policymakers, investors and startups.
As a prominent figure in the entrepreneurship space, what advice do you have for young female professionals?
My advice to young female professionals is to pursue their ideas with determination and resilience. There are abundant opportunities available for women in entrepreneurship, and by staying focused on their goals and learning from their experiences, they can achieve success in their endeavours.
Is there anything else you would like to add about the WBAF or your involvement in the entrepreneurship community?
I would like to invite everyone in the entrepreneurship community to participate in the upcoming WBAF Congress in Bahrain. It’s an excellent opportunity to network, learn and collaborate with like-minded individuals from around the world. Additionally, I’m committed to supporting women entrepreneurs and youth in their entrepreneurial journey, and I look forward to seeing the continued growth and success of the Bahraini startup ecosystem.
We are delighted to announce that Woman This Month magazine is the official Bahrain media partner of the World Business Angel Investment Forum (WBAF World Congress) and has been commissioned to produce a series of monthly updates on the congress which takes place in Bahrain between November 18-20, 2024.
In addition, a special preview supplement (distributed in print and through digital platforms) will be produced prior to the World Congress in Bahrain to generate awareness.
