The Heat Is On As NBO’s Innovation Incubator Begins

Concluding a highly successful selection process, National Bank of Oman’s (NBO) Innovation Incubator has officially begun. 30 young graduates, who were chosen from over 1,500 applicants, have now started their journey through the three-month long programme, which is part of the bank’s corporate social responsibility (CSR) programme, in collaboration with the SME Development Authority, Oman Academy for SMEs, and Paradigm Consulting. Coached by 15 of the bank’s specially-trained employees, the young men and women will go head-to-head to design their own FinTech start-up. Only three will emerge as winners, and have the opportunity to pitch their ideas to potential investors.

Sherifa Al Maskari, Head of Brand at NBO, said, “At NBO we are committed to nurturing Oman’s future leaders and championing innovation. The Innovation Incubator is among a range of youth-centred initiatives we have run, which provide valuable business skills and knowledge. We wish all of the participants the best of luck and look forward to seeing them put their ideas into action.”

NBO’s role does not stop at offering innovative banking solutions, but extends through its values as a community-focused organization. Outward Bound Oman, the Youth Awards, and the Hackathon are all initiatives that demonstrate the bank’s commitment to inspiring innovation in the Sultanate’s young people. By continuing to foster partnerships between the private and public sectors through a range of educational and youth-led programmes, the bank is fulfilling its goals to empower local talent and position Oman as a future-ready economy.