Applications are now open for season four of Beban, the hit reality show that connects promising businesses with investors and strategic partners.
Beban, produced by Hope Ventures (the investment arm of Hope Fund), just wrapped up a successful season three. The show aired on major channels like Bahrain TV and Abu Dhabi TV, showcasing businesses from the Middle East and North Africa (Mena) region.
The reality series also offers viewers the opportunity to invest in these businesses through a licensed crowdfunding platform.
Filmed at the new Exhibition World Bahrain, season three featured pitches from 41 businesses – representing more than 100 entrepreneurs – seeking equity investment and strategic partnerships to expand into new markets.
Prior to appearing on the show, the entrepreneurs received more than 200 hours of intensive training from industry experts to refine their business plans and prepare them for the investment opportunity.
The season saw 20 businesses successfully secure funding, with a total of $4.18 million co-invested by the private and public sectors. Businesses securing investment spanned four key sectors: technology, manufacturing, food & beverage, and retail.
Beban also made history as the region’s first private-public investment platform. This was achieved through partnerships with organisations like the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (UAE), the SME Development Authority (Oman), and Tamkeen (Bahrain).
Further solidifying its position as a unique platform, Beban won the Kuwait Creativity Award in the Television Programmes category at the 11th Arab Media Forum.
Ms Pachachi
“We are proud to conclude season three of Beban,” said Hope Ventures general manager Fajer Al Pachachi. “As the Mema region’s first private-public investment platform, we’ve successfully facilitated strategic investment opportunities for high-potential businesses. Through Beban’s offerings, this season’s entrepreneurs have gained valuable exposure, funding, and business support.”
Applications to participate in the upcoming season can be submitted via the Beban website (beban.me) until June 6, 2024.
avinash@gdnmedia.bh
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