The Ethiopian Youth Entrepreneurs Association (EYEA) and the Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority of Saudi Arabia (Monsha’at) have formally established a strategic partnership. The agreement was finalized during the prestigious BIBAN 2025 forum, which Monsha’at hosted from November 5–8, 2025, at the Riyadh Front Exhibition and Convention Center, under the theme “A Global Destination for Opportunities.”

This crucial partnership is designed to foster meaningful collaboration between African—specifically Ethiopian—and Saudi entrepreneurs. Its goals are comprehensive, focusing on promoting knowledge and technology transfer, facilitating co-founder and startup matchmaking, offering robust capacity building, and securing crucial cross-border market access.

Furthermore, the initiative aims to accelerate youth-led innovation, promote applicable interest-free financing models, and strengthen sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystems. Ultimately, this effort seeks to empower young people to create jobs, drive inclusive growth, and contribute significantly to the long-term development goals of both regions.

The official signing ceremony was graced by the presence of Dr. Muktar Kedir Abdu, Ambassador of Ethiopia to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, and Sami Ibrahim Alhussaini, Governor of Monsha’at.

The agreement was formally signed by Abdulmohsen Salem H. Alsalem, General Manager of Partnerships, representing Monsha’at, and Samiya Abdulkadir Godu, President of EYEA, on behalf of the Association.

Through this collaboration, Monsha’at underscores its continued commitment to enabling entrepreneurs to benefit from successful international experiences, enhancing cooperation with global entrepreneurial organizations, and cultivating an integrated business environment. This strategy actively fosters the growth and sustainability of SMEs and directly aligns with the broader objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, supporting the expansion of regional and global market opportunities for innovative startups.