QBA calls for enhancing SMEs’ benefit from financing of major development projects

Doha, Qatar - The Qatari Businessmen Association (QBA) has called for greater inclusion of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the benefits derived from financing major development projects, according to a report. The QBA's participation in the "The Role of the Private Sector in Financing Development in Developing Countries" session at the World Investment Forum 2026 included a call for governments to mandate that main contractors on large-scale projects allocate a portion of eligible work to local SMEs that meet the required technical and commercial standards.

The association's CEO, Salah Mohammed Jaidah, highlighted the importance of enhancing SME participation to ensure that the economic benefits of development projects are felt across the private sector. He also proposed solutions to address the financing challenges faced by SMEs, particularly subcontractors, such as developing financing mechanisms that include approved subcontractors and offering working capital financing against approved invoices upon project completion.

Jaidah emphasized that supporting SMEs is crucial for maximizing the impact of development investments, particularly in developing countries, where these companies contribute significantly to job creation, economic diversification, and sustainable growth.