DOHA: As part of its efforts to support local small and medium enterprises (SMEs), the Ministry of Information and Communications Technology yesterday showcased a new tool ‘ICT SME Toolkit’ to help businesses adopt ICT technologies such as e-commerce, web presence and cloud computing technology.
Feda Barghouthi, ICT Strategy Section Manager at the ministry, said: “The new toolkit aims at advancing the Qatari business society in terms of ICT adoption, as well as advancing the ICT sector by enlarging the market and boosting the quality of services. The programme has been designed to position SMEs to be at the cutting edge of ICT development.”
Enterprise Qatar, Microsoft Qatar and the ministry demonstrated how they can empower SMEs through cloud technology. At a workshop attended by SMEs, the three institutions provide perspectives and insights into a path forward for growing ICT-focused SMEs in Qatar.
In a keynote speech, Jean-Philippe Courtois, President, Microsoft International, updated enterprises on how technology can help SMEs compete in an increasingly global marketplace.
Courtois’ visit reflects the importance of Microsoft’s partnerships in Qatar and the country’s role in helping grow SMEs. “Microsoft continues to support SMEs in Qatar through ongoing initiatives, emphasising access to the latest cloud-based technologies. These include the BizSpark Programme, the Keep Your Business Moving online community and the Qatar Ta’mal initiative launched recently in partnership with Silatech,” said Courtois
Abdulbasit Ajji, Department Manager (SPX), EQ, said: “Qatar’s demand for innovation and economic diversification has led to an increased attention towards the SME sector. With SMEs shaping 97 percent of the private sector, we realise the importance of providing seamless support to them.”
The Peninsula
