The Small and Medium Enterprises General Authority "Monsha’at" concluded the franchising tour in Al Khobar from August 12 to 13, in partnership with the Ministry of Commerce, the National Transformation Program, the Social Development Bank, and the Small and Medium Enterprises Bank, alongside several supporting and enabling entities to introduce services and programs in the field of franchising at the SMEs Support Center in the governorate. In a dialogue session titled "Programs and Products Offered to Franchisees and Franchisors," the Chairman of the Asharqiah Chamber of Commerce, Badr Al-Razeeza, emphasized that the chamber focuses on organizing the relationship between entrepreneurs and supporting entities. He noted that the chamber hosted the first franchising exhibition 12 years ago in collaboration with a commercial company. He mentioned that Asharqiah Chamber has provided services to the business sector for nearly 70 years, focusing specifically on franchising over the last 15 years. As a non-executive and non-financing entity, the chamber has concentrated on guidance and awareness through organizing workshops and collaborating with various entities, aiming to enhance cooperation with supporting and enabling organizations to assist entrepreneurs.    On his part, the Executive Director of Enterprise Financing at the Social Development Bank, Faris Al-Abduljabar, revealed that the total financing value provided by the bank for small and medium enterprises has reached 140 million riyals, benefiting 145 enterprises in the franchising sector, with over 80 franchise brands approved by the Social Development Bank. Al-Abduljabar explained that the Social Development Bank launched its first product dedicated to franchising in 2007 and designed a modern product in 2020, with guarantees made accessible to everyone. He noted that the bank has provided two paths for male and female entrepreneurs: a manufacturing path to build a business plan and a financing path that includes all funding programs and products, as well as a foundational path for entrepreneurs in the franchising field.  It is worth mentioning that the franchising tour aims to raise awareness and understanding of franchising and its various aspects, including legal, operational, and marketing elements, stimulate expansion and investment through the franchising business model, showcase success stories, and provide a comprehensive investment environment through the participation of enabling entities, consultants, brand grantors, and potential franchisees.  The tour involved 40 brands and 7 enabling and supporting entities, enabling entrepreneurs and small and medium business owners to learn about the essential basics of franchising. Additionally, the tour held several workshops, including acquiring franchising rights, evaluating investment opportunities, introducing the Franchise Center at "Monsha’at," understanding market strategies, mechanisms for international expansion in franchising, and developing operational guidelines for brands. " Monsha’at" will continue the franchising tour in the city of Abha, which is the second stop out of 14 tours across the Kingdom, during the period from August 26 to 27. The aim is to enhance and develop the franchising sector and enable entrepreneurs to access all the services and facilities provided by the relevant entities. " Monsha’at" is keen to enhance the capabilities of entrepreneurs in the field of franchising through specialized initiatives and programs, due to its importance and effective role in supporting the small and medium enterprises sector. Those interested can register to attend the tour via the link: https://franchisesa.monshaat.gov.sa/step1