The Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth has partnered with Bahrain’s Labour Fund (Tamkeen) to launch ‘Mastercard Strive’ program in the Kingdom.
With the implementation of this program in Bahrain, the Kingdom becomes the first in the Middle East region to adopt this. The program, active in numerous countries, has made a significant global impact by reaching over 12 million small businesses by facilitating access to capital, digital tools, and knowledge networks.
This partnership aims to support Bahraini Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) on financial and digital readiness by providing them with the tools and resources to scale up, digitize, and drive inclusive economic growth.
Under this move, both Bahrain and the Mastercard Center for Inclusive Growth will explore a scalable model of collaboration, strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a regional leader in SME development.
H.E Shaikh Salman bin Khalifa Al Khalifa Minister of Finance and National Economy of Bahrain
“The Kingdom of Bahrain has always prioritized fostering a supportive environment that enables SMEs to succeed and grow as they continue to play a pivotal role in the economy. This partnership with Mastercard will pave the way for SMEs in Bahrain to utilize financial and digital tools to enhance their operations and improve their productivity”
This collaboration falls in line with Tamkeen’s 2025 strategic vision, which centers on enhancing the role of Bahrainis in the private sector, accelerating enterprise digitization and sustainability, and elevating the labor market ecosystem.
By integrating Mastercard’s market-leading expertise in inclusive growth with Tamkeen’s local leadership in economic development, this partnership is set to establish a robust and resilient ecosystem, supporting Bahraini SMEs to thrive in the digital economy and contribute to national growth.
“We have always known that small businesses are the engine of the global economy, and help create opportunity and growth for communities. Through Mastercard Strive, the Center is excited to partner with the Kingdom of Bahrain and Tamkeen to help Bahrainis thrive in the private sector while building their skills in financial and digital readiness,” added Shamina Singh, the Founder and President of Mastercard’s Center for Inclusive Growth.
