Under Secretary for Commerce & Industry, HE Ahmed Al Dheeb presented awards and congratulated five start-up companies that graduated on Monday from the Knowledge Mine (TKM) business incubator program based on Knowledge Oasis Muscat (KOM).
HE Al Dheeb said the TKM start-up graduates all had a role to play in building a knowledge-based economy that successfully competes with the rest of the world. “We know that business incubation can help diversify economies, commercialize technologies, create jobs and build wealth. I’m confident that the five businesses graduating from TKM today will inspire other Omani entrepreneurs to take their ideas forward. Since its launch in 2004, TKM has played a pivotal role in helping create innovative, high growth companies for the future.”
TKM is currently home to 15 start-ups - companies working in areas that include e-security; serious gaming; engineering; web design; and marine environment. TKM offers a creative, stimulating and supportive environment that helps entrepreneurs grow. It provides top class broadband connections, state-of-the-art office space and meeting rooms. But it’s not just about the facilities, TKM also provides access to business advisers, professional mentors and a wide range of workshops designed to meet the needs and interests of entrepreneurs.
Mohammed Al Maskari, Director General, KOM said: “Today's TKM graduates have proven that they can effectively combine creativity with the business skills to bring ideas to market. All of them deserve recognition for their success in bringing an innovative idea to life. Indeed, the range of exciting companies showcased at Monday's graduation demonstrates the pivotal role of incubators in providing the right environment for start-ups to succeed.”
Mohammed Al Rasbi, CEO of R&D and anchor tenant of TKM commented: “I strongly recommend the TKM program and Knowledge Oasis Muscat to anyone considering a new business or seeking to raise capital for an existing start-up. TKM provided an extremely valuable environment to prepare for launching my company. Most importantly, I developed relationships with highly skilled mentors that were readily available to roll up their sleeves to help me move my business forward with wise advice. By far, TKM is the best venue for any Oman-based entrepreneur looking to accelerate their business.”
“The TKM program has assisted me with the entrepreneurial developmental tools to manage and grow a successful business while expanding my business relationships across the Gulf region,” said Amrou Al Sharif, Founder and CEO of Seeb Systems.
“Fostering entrepreneurship is a priority at KOM,” smiles Al Maskari, adding: “growing Oman’s technology sector is accomplished one company at a time and it’s a great pleasure to be playing a pivotal role in this important process.”
Congratulations to the winter 2009 TKM graduates: R&D; Seeb Systems; e-Brain; Sohar Soft; and Kindows.
Blog contents copyright © 2006 PEIE
