IsDB Institute and MBSC Celebrate Graduation of Entrepreneurial Mindset Development Program Cohort
The Islamic Development Bank Institute (IsDBI) and Prince Mohammed Bin Salman College of Business and Entrepreneurship (MBSC) have celebrated the graduation of the first cohort of the Entrepreneurial Mindset Development Program, a joint initiative designed to nurture leaders across IsDB Member Countries. The ceremony, held at the IsDB Headquarters in Jeddah, highlighted the successful completion of the program by 29 entrepreneurs representing 20 different countries.
The Context: Bridging Academia and Development
This partnership represents a strategic effort to combine academic excellence with tangible development impact. By leveraging the specialized expertise of MBSC and the IsDB Institute, the program provides a standardized framework for fostering economic resilience.
The curriculum was delivered through a hybrid model involving online learning modules and rigorous in-person training in Jeddah. Participants received instruction in key business areas, including:
- Entrepreneurial Strategy and Innovation: Developing long-term growth plans.
- Financial Management: Mastering capital allocation and fiscal responsibility.
- Negotiation and Leadership: Strengthening decision-making and problem-solving skills in real-world environments.
Why This Matters: Alignment with Saudi Vision 2030
The Entrepreneurial Mindset Development Program directly supports the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, specifically the pillar of creating a “Thriving Economy”. The Vision aims to increase the contribution of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to GDP from 20% to 35% by 2030. By equipping young leaders with the skills to drive private-sector growth, this initiative acts as a catalyst for job creation and sustainable innovation.
During the ceremony, Eng. Adeeb Al-Aama, CEO of the ITFC, emphasized that supporting young entrepreneurs is vital for driving sustainable development. This sentiment was echoed by Dr. Khalid Khalafallah, who noted that the collaboration between IsDB Group entities like ICIEC, ICD, and ITFC reflects a shared commitment to social impact.
Future Outlook: A Global Entrepreneurial Alliance
A unique outcome of this first cohort is the formation of a joint entrepreneurial alliance initiated by the participants themselves. This alliance is intended to foster long-term knowledge sharing and cross-border partnerships between the 20 represented member countries. Additionally, graduates will apply social impact measurement techniques to evaluate the effectiveness of their ventures back in their home regions.
Both the IsDB Institute and MBSC have reaffirmed their commitment to expanding future cohorts of the Entrepreneurial Mindset Development Program, ensuring a continuous pipeline of innovation-led leaders.
