We empower entrepreneurship, and connect Syria to the world.
An independent forum supporting entrepreneurs and small and medium enterprises, building bridges to markets, investors, and the diaspora.
An independent platform for the Syrian economy.
The Business Leadership Forum is a non-profit, non-political institution that empowers entrepreneurs and enterprises and builds bridges of trust with markets, investors, and the diaspora.
- Independence and avoidance of conflicts of interest
- Transparency and an independent annual financial audit
- Measurable economic impact
Five programs, one impact.
We start with the incubator and SME empowerment, then expand toward markets, crafts, and heritage.
Business Incubator
End-to-end support for graduate-led ventures: a founding grant, licensing, office, financial planning, and mentorship. Founders keep full ownership.
SME Empowerment & Access to Finance
Capacity building and access to finance for existing enterprises across economic sectors.
Market Access & Diaspora Linkage
Connecting Syrian business to markets, investors, and diaspora networks worldwide.
Revival of Syrian Handicrafts
Safeguarding living crafts such as qashani and ajami, and sustaining their economy.
Heritage Site Restoration Support
A community partner and funder for restoring sites and markets, in coordination with the competent authorities.
All five programs
See the operating model and eligibility criteria for each program in detail.
Three entities, separate roles.
A structure that protects independence, prevents conflicts of interest, and opens the door to international and local funding.
The Forum
A non-profit that runs the programs, takes no equity, and distributes no profits.
The Holding Company
A separate, independent vehicle for any investment activity, built at a later stage.
The Canadian Foundation
A channel for international funding and diaspora donations, legally independent.
The forum by the numbers
Connecting Syria's business community.
From the historic markets of Damascus to diaspora networks, we connect entrepreneurs and enterprises to markets, investors, and growth.
Leadership & governance.
A board that sets strategy, a paid full-time executive director who runs daily operations, and an advisory council of experts and diaspora members.
Ismat al-Absi
Zaher Saadeldin
Tawfik Houboubati
Ayman al-Shukairi
Eid Bayrakdar
Majd Sharbaji
Experts & mentors
Curated investment opportunities
Sector projects and assets we present to investors inside and outside Syria, after the forum's screening and review.
Illustrative examples
Two ways to take part.
Invest in vetted opportunities
Explore selected projects and assets inside and outside Syria, after the forum's screening and review.
Browse opportunitiesFund a program or support the forum
Join our non-profit in empowering entrepreneurs through transparent governance and independent audit.
Become a partner