Saudi Gazette Businesswomen's Center in the Eastern Province Chamber of Commerce was created to fulfill its mission, “working together for a better future.” The center aims at building the nation, promoting growth and development, apart from boosting the economy. However, Amina Al-Jassim, a member of the Businesswomen's Center, complained that despite tremendous efforts made toward it, funding institutions still prefer to support projects and business proposals by men. She is a fashion designer of traditional jelabiyas, abayas, modern evening wear, and wedding gowns and has, recently, opened her own boutique in Al-Khobar. She still faces difficulty and discrimination when requesting loans for her business projects. At the current Young Businessmen and Businesswomen Forum in the Eastern Province, entrepreneurs were given the chance to exhibit their products or services to the public, so that investors can help fund positive business ideas and educate young businessmen and women. Al-Jassim told Al-Watan daily at the forum, “The society is still reluctant to perceive a woman as businesswoman and productive participants in the private sector. The neglected women will lack gaining knowledge and expertise they need for their businesses to succeed.” “Part of the Eastern Province Chamber's plan is to conduct yearly workshops and training courses specifically for young women, who aspire to enter the world of business. This form of business education will give them insight into the work culture and will help them understand their duties and their rights. The Chamber also assists them in drawing a feasible plan for their projects and getting in touch with prospective investors,” added Al-Jassim. A large number of young businessmen and women are entering the Saudi market with much intensity to gain recognition. The Vice Chairman of the Board of Directors of Al-Tayyar Travel Group, Dr. Nasser Aqeel Al-Tayyar, estimated that approximately 90 percent of all new businesses are still in the initiation process, and they belong to entrepreneurs under the age of 37 years. The probability of a budding business to survive and succeed is directly correlated with the level of thorough education and knowledge in business for both, men and women. __
