A new chapter in entrepreneurial cooperation is unfolding as the Ethiopian Youth Entrepreneurs Association (EYEA) and the Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority of Saudi Arabia (Monsha’atSA) join forces to strengthen innovation, empower youth and support business growth in both nations. The two organizations will officially sign a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on Thursday, November 6, 2025, during Biban 2025 in Saudi Arabia, marking a major step toward cross-border collaboration.
The signing will take place in the presence of H.E. Dr. Mukhtar Kedir, Ethiopia’s Ambassador to Saudi Arabia, who will serve as Guest of Honor and witness this milestone. Representing EYEA are President Samiya Abdulkadir Godu and Vice President Keremenz Kasaye, who will participate in the event to formalize this strategic partnership.
The collaboration aims to create new opportunities for Ethiopian startups and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) by promoting knowledge and technology transfer, startup matchmaking, capacity building and access to regional markets. Through this partnership, both countries are building a bridge that connects entrepreneurs to skills, capital and opportunities that will shape the next generation of business leaders.
Building a Stronger Ecosystem for Youth and Innovation
Ethiopia’s growing youth population represents a powerful source of creativity and energy. However, urban unemployment remains high at 27 percent and many young people struggle to find decent jobs despite recent economic growth. The need for sustainable job creation and youth empowerment is stronger than ever.
EYEA is working to address this challenge by helping young innovators build their own paths through entrepreneurship. Founded by young business leaders, the association provides training, access to finance, mentorship and networking opportunities to help startups grow and compete in the regional and global market.
This new partnership with Monsha’atSA will take those efforts to the next level. It will allow Ethiopian entrepreneurs to connect with Saudi counterparts, learn from their experiences and tap into emerging business ecosystems supported by Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030. The collaboration will also encourage joint ventures and co-innovation programs that enable startups to test and scale their ideas in both markets.
By focusing on youth-led innovation and inclusive financing models, the initiative seeks to create a more resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem. It will equip young people not only to find jobs but to create them, helping drive economic diversification and sustainable growth across both nations.
Monsha’atSA: Supporting SMEs for Vision 2030
The Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority of Saudi Arabia, known as Monsha’at, plays a central role in Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation. Established in 2016, Monsha’at was created by the Council of Ministers to regulate, support and develop the SME sector according to global best practices. Its main objective is to increase the contribution of SMEs to Saudi Arabia’s GDP from 20 percent to 35 percent by 2030, in line with the country’s Vision 2030 goals.
Monsha’at focuses on enhancing SME productivity, promoting entrepreneurship and strengthening the national economy through programs that foster innovation and competitiveness. It provides a wide range of services that include business development training, technology adoption support and access to diversified financing. The authority also stimulates venture capital initiatives and offers guidance in key business areas such as management, marketing, finance and human resources.
Through this partnership, Monsha’atSA will collaborate with EYEA to share its expertise and best practices in SME development, creating a two-way learning exchange. Ethiopian entrepreneurs will gain exposure to the systems, models and networks that have contributed to Saudi Arabia’s growing startup landscape, while Saudi partners will benefit from new connections in Ethiopia’s dynamic and expanding business environment.
Unlocking Opportunities Across Borders
The Ethio–Saudi partnership represents more than a formal agreement. It is a step toward inclusive economic growth and stronger bilateral relations built on shared values of innovation and opportunity. By combining Ethiopia’s growing entrepreneurial drive with Saudi Arabia’s established experience in SME development, the collaboration aims to accelerate the creation of sustainable jobs and stimulate private sector growth.
The partnership will open new pathways for cross-border market access, giving Ethiopian startups a platform to expand their reach in the Middle East while inviting Saudi investors and innovators to explore opportunities in Africa’s second most populous nation. It also lays the groundwork for technology transfer, knowledge exchange and mentorship programs that will help both countries adapt to changing global business landscapes.
Ultimately, this cooperation between EYEA and Monsha’atSA reflects a shared vision for a future where entrepreneurship serves as a cornerstone of inclusive development. By empowering young innovators and small businesses, Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia are building a model of collaboration that turns potential into progress.
