Visa Launches its Grant Program ‘She's Next' in Bahrain to Support Women-Owned Small Business

• Visa launches 1st edition of She’s Next in partnership with Bahrain Islamic Bank (BIsB) in Bahrain
• Local women business owners in the two countries are invited to apply for a grant worth USD 50,000, a tailored training program and access to She’s Next Club networking and mentoring opportunities. Applications are open until June 23, 2023

Manama, Bahrain, 23 May 2023: Visa, the world’s leader in digital payments, is bringing the Saudi Arabia edition of its She’s Next initiative to women-owned businesses in Bahrain in partnership with Bahrain Islamic Bank (BIsB).

“She’s Next”, empowered by Visa, is a global advocacy program that aims to support women-owned small businesses through funding, training and mentorship. From today and until June 23, 2023, women entrepreneurs from all industries and sectors in Bahrain can apply to “She's Next”.

One winner will receive a grant of USD 50,000, a tailored training program, and access to She’s Next Club resources such as a workshop library and community of entrepreneurs. 

Ali Bailoun, Visa’s Regional General Manager for KSA, Bahrain and Oman, commented: “Women entrepreneurs in Bahrain require additional funding and support in today's business landscape. That’s why we're proud to bring She's Next for the first time to Bahrain and we are grateful to Bahrain Islamic Bank for their support in bringing this important initiative to women owned businesses in these important markets.” 

Fatema AlAlawi, Chief Retail Banking Officer in Bahrain Islamic Bank (BisB), stated: “In our pursuit to promote digital innovation and financial sustainability of Bahraini SMEs, we are proud to partner with Visa for the inaugural edition of She's Next in Bahrain. By empowering and supporting women entrepreneurs, we aim to create an enabling environment that cultivates progress and prosperity for all. Together, we are committed to forging a path of success and unlocking limitless possibilities in the digital age."

Since 2020, Visa has invested +$3M in over 250 grants and coaching for women SMB owners through the She’s Next grant program globally including in US, Canada, India, Ireland, Ukraine, Kazakhstan, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Egypt and Morocco.

To learn more and apply for Visa She's Next Grant Program, applicants must submit a short application form with details about their business and digital presence.