In line with its small projects finance program, Bab Rizq Jameel (BRJ), an initiative of ALJ Community Initiatives (ALJCI), supported 604 small projects owned by young males and females during the first six months of 2011 in Makkah region. Abdul Rahman Al Fihaid, BRJ executive director in Saudi Arabia, said “Makkah region includes Makkah and Jeddah branches, with its males and females divisions. In this region, we have financed 604 small projects in the fields of confectioneries, photography studio, fast food, medical equipment, football field, bricks production, beauty salon, and other several projects. The small projects finance program provides finance to young males and females who have project ideas, feasibility study and official licenses, and enjoy skills and experience in project management, but they lack financial resources. The program helps them to implement their existing or new projects through loans up to SR150,000.” Hala Abdo, one of the program beneficiaries in Jeddah and the owner of wedding accessories and flower arrangement project, said that the first step throughout her project was through occasions of her relatives and friends. Hala started her project from her house with beautiful and lovely designs, then the idea was matured, but she faced financing difficulties. One of her friends advised her to approach BRJ, who provides interest-free financing services, and she did so. People at BRJ examined her documents, and agreed to finance her small project. “Currently, I am repaying the installments and saving some amount. BRJ has opened hopes and aspirations for me and for other young males and females of this blessed country.” “Through Bab Rizq Jameel, we are seeking to create job opportunities for young Saudis. Upon doing so, we cooperate with several Governmental authorities, including the Human Resources Development Fund (HRDF), Credit and Saving Bank, branches of the Ministry of Labor, Social Charity Fund, Technical and Vocational Training Corporation (TVTC), National Commercial Bank and other bodies that support the programs to achieve their goals. A total of 509 projects in Jeddah and 95 projects in Makkah have been financed,” Al Fihaid added.
