The Micro, Small, and Medium Enterprises Development Agency (MSMEDA) has launched a microfinance initiative Herfa (Craft) to support micro-heritage and handicraft projects across Egypt. Announced by MSMEDA CEO Basil Rahmi, the initiative was developed in collaboration with Aman Holding, with a total funding allocation of 25 million Egyptian pounds. The programme targets projects holding valid tax cards and commercial registers, offering financial support to establish and expand new businesses. It focuses on productive clusters in border governorates and underprivileged areas, aiming to boost economic activity and preserve traditional crafts. This initiative complements MSMEDA's broader efforts to strengthen the heritage crafts sector, providing entrepreneurs with the tools needed to thrive in national and international markets, Rahmi noted. Alongside financial support, the agency has also focused on enhancing marketing capabilities through tailored training programmes. As such, MSMEDA organised on Monday a specialised training workshop for participants in the upcoming sixth edition of the Turathna (Our Heritage) Exhibition. The workshop trained 100 on-site attendees and hundreds more online on modern marketing strategies, including pricing, packaging, contract management, and exhibit organisation. Scheduled to launch on December 12 under the patronage of President Abdel Fattah El-Sisi, Turathna is the region's largest gathering for heritage and handicraft projects. MSMEDA's initiatives aim to maximise entrepreneurs' success at such events while contributing to the preservation and development of Egypt's rich cultural heritage. Attribution: The Egyptian Cabinet Subediting: Y.Yasser
