The Abu Dhabi SME Champions programme aims to elevate local SMEs' visibility and competitiveness as trusted suppliers to large local companies (LCs) across diverse industries.
By bridging the gap and foster stronger procurement ties between SMEs and LCs, the programme raises awareness of capable local suppliers, builds trust, and boosts confidence in sourcing locally.
Industry leaders such as Aldar, Etihad Airways, Emirates Steel Arkan, and Ittihad Paper Mill have already allocated AED 30 million in procurement contracts to the first cohort, while Mubadala, Etisalat, and ADNOC have lent their support as observers, helping shape a sustainable framework for local enterprise growth.
The programme’s future steps include a digital procurement platform that will streamline and expand procurement opportunities through participating LCs' ERP systems. This platform will manage a procurement pool worth AED 500 million by 2026, driving innovation, economic growth, and SME competitiveness.