Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) recently held an award letter signing ceremony for the 6th cohort of the BIBD SEED Programme, marking a significant milestone in BIBD’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship and supporting the growth of local businesses.
A total of 11 new applicants have been awarded and welcomed into the BIBD SEED Programme this year.
These participants have been registered and represent various agencies, including the Community Development Department under the Ministry of Culture Youth and Sports; Rakan Seliaan or Supervisory Partners under the Prisons Department, Ministry of Home Affairs; Usahawan Bakarih Yayasan under the Sultan Haji Hassanal Bolkia Foundatioh, as well as applications from the public.
The participants underwent a rigorous selection process, involving a two-layer process with an interview session and a product pitch. Following their selection, the participants will commence Phase 1 of the BIBD SEED Programme with an intensive 5-day Bootcamp starting on 20 May 2024.
The BIBD SEED Programme is designed to run for a period of six months, providing comprehensive training and support to the participants. Upon successful completion of the programme, participants will make their final presentation (sales pitch) and stand a chance to be awarded a business grant. The grant aims to assist them in opening and operating their businesses, further contributing to the local economy.
The BIBD SEED Programme places a significant emphasis on female empowerment through entrepreneurship. By fostering a sense of self-sufficiency, particularly among women from targeted segments or those who may have faced hardships and a lack of opportunities, the program aims to create meaningful change, both among the participants and society as a whole.
BIBD recognises the power of transformation that comes from having the right skills, support, and ecosystem – all of which are provided through the SEED Programme. This initiative is more than just a corporate social responsibility effort; it is a heartfelt commitment to offering women the opportunities they need to succeed.
Through the BIBD SEED Programme, participants are not only empowered to support their families but also to instill the values of hard work and resilience into their households.
The programme provides comprehensive training and mentorship, creating an environment where women can flourish and realise their full potential.
BIBD remains dedicated to fostering a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem in Brunei. The SEED Programme is a testament to BIBD’s ongoing efforts to empower individuals and support their business aspirations, in line with the bank’s vision of being a trusted partner in the nation’s progress.
In attendance was BIBD Managing Director and CEO Junaidi Haji Masri. Signing the award letters on behalf of BIBD was Head of Government Relations and Special Projects Haji Mohammad Yusri Haji Wahsalfelah.
THE BRUNEIAN | BANDAR SERI BEGAWAN
