BIBD SEED Programme Welcomes 6th Cohort
- Bruneian at Heart, Community, Entrepreneurship, Featured, SEED
Bank Islam Brunei Darussalam (BIBD) recently held an award letter signing ceremony for the 6th cohort of the BIBD SEED Program. This event marks a significant milestone in BIBD’s commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship and supporting the growth of local businesses.
The Guest of Honour at the event was BIBD Managing Director and CEO, Junaidi bin Haji Masri. Also present was Haji Mohammad Yusri bin Haji Wahsalfelah, Head of Government Relations and Special Projects, who signed the award letters on behalf of BIBD.
This year, a total of 11 new applicants have been awarded and welcomed into the BIBD SEED Program. These participants have been registered and represent various agencies, including the 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 Program with an intensive 5-day Bootcamp starting on 20 May 2024.
The BIBD SEED Program is designed to run for a period of six months, providing comprehensive training and support to the participants. Upon successful completion of the program, participants will make their final presentation (sales pitch) and stand a chance to be awarded a business grant. This grant aims to assist them in opening and operating their businesses, further contributing to the local economy.
The BIBD SEED Program 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 Program. 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 Program, participants are not only empowered to support their families but also to instill the values of hard work and resilience into their households. The program 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 Program 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.
