FAQ

This section will help you navigate the support offered by Khalifa Fund. Here, you’ll find answers to common questions about applying for funding, available services, evaluation criteria, and more. Learn how to apply through TAMM, explore supported sectors, and better understand application requirements.

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  1. How can I apply for the funding products?

    You can apply and register through the Abu Dhabi Government Services Platform TAMM.

  2. Does Khalifa Fund provide business ideas?

    Khalifa Fund does not offer business ideas; however, it can provide idea generation guidance to entrepreneurs. A dedicated training programme is available to assist with this process.

  3. What services does Khalifa Fund provide?

    Khalifa Fund provides the following services:

    • Request for funding;
    • Request to disburse an approved loan;
    • Request to release collateral for the funded project assets;
    • Request to amend an existing loan;
    • Request for reallocation of a loan; Disbursement, request for loan top-up;
    • Request for training;
    • Request for consulting service for startups or existing businesses;
    • Request to cancel a loan;
    • Request for a support letter;
    • Request for membership;
    • Request to facilitate communication with strategic stakeholders;
    • Request to obtain Smart Manufacturing incentives;
    • Financing business operating capital;
    • Financing fixed assets (vehicles and logistics);
    • Financing fixed assets (equipment and machinery);
    • Financing invoice financing (receivables);
    • Financing Advance Payment Guarantee (APG);
    • Financing e-commerce inventory;
    • Financing Agri-tech.
  4. Are there any sectors or business activities that Khalifa Fund does not support? What are the sectors not supported by Khalifa Fund?

    Please note that there are certain activities not supported by Khalifa Fund. For more details, please contact our customer service team on 02 696 0000.

  5. When is the entrepreneur required to pay the contribution to the business? What is the contribution amount and payment schedule?

    The contribution is requested upon loan approval, the value of which will be determined according to the project cost at the time of fund approval.

  6. When will Khalifa Fund support stop?

    Support stops upon full loan repayment, upon the expiration of the membership period with Khalifa Fund without renewal, or upon failure to provide the requested information or documents, or delays in loan repayments of amounts due.

  7. How does Khalifa Fund evaluate applications?

    Khalifa Fund evaluates applications based on several criteria, including educational qualifications, the relevance of practical experiences to the project idea, and the commitment to executing the project idea within the specified time. Additionally, they consider the financial capability and commitment, the qualifications of the team, the project’s alignment with market supply and demand conditions, the project location, and any other factors applicable to the business idea or entrepreneur.

  8. Why do I have to submit a business plan?

    A business plan is required for market feasibility assessment and to review the technical and financial potential of the project.

  9. Does Khalifa Fund provide land or find locations for the business?

    Khalifa Fund does not provide land or find business locations. For details, please speak to your assigned Business Counsellor.

  10. Does Khalifa Fund allow partnerships?

    Yes, partnership is allowed with the condition that the ownership is 100% Emirati and registered under individual licences, not corporate entities. Change of partnerships after loan approval requires Khalifa Fund approval.

  11. Can I apply on behalf of someone if I hold a Power of Attorney?

    The entrepreneur must personally submit the application and attend all necessary meetings.

  12. How can I protect my business idea?

    Khalifa Fund may receive similar business ideas. In such cases, the focus is on the business plan presented by the entrepreneur. Khalifa Fund does not share project ideas with third parties, though the idea may be discovered from various sources.

    Khalifa Fund does not take responsibility for protecting project ideas. To protect an idea, the entrepreneur should register it with the relevant authorities.

  13. What should I do if I have contacted the Business Counsellor and have not received a response?

    For inquiries, please contact the toll-free number 02 696 0000.

  14. Can the grace period or repayment period of the project be extended?

    This can be discussed with the Business Counsellor.

  15. Does the initial approval of the idea by the Screening Committee indicate a final approval?

    The Screening Committee’s approval is not final, as it is based on the preliminary acceptance of the business idea. Final approval depends on further evaluation stages.

  16. Does Khalifa Fund accept business plans submitted by consultancy companies?

    It is understood that entrepreneurs may need to conduct market studies and consult various experts to obtain in-depth insights according to the nature of the project; however, Khalifa Fund does not encourage outsourcing business plan development. The Fund can also provide a dedicated business consultant for guidance and assistance, where required.

  17. Is it necessary to engage with government entities during the project study phase?

    Khalifa Fund encourages entrepreneurs to liaise with relevant government entities for required licences and permits, such as the Department of Economic Development, Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Abu Dhabi Food Control Authority, Civil Defence, Abu Dhabi Waste Management Company, Environment Authority, etc., according to the nature and requirements of the business.

  18. Who should I contact if I have a complaint or suggestion?

    The Quality Management Department at Khalifa Fund is ready to assist you with any complaints or suggestions. Additionally, there is a Complaints and Suggestions Box located in the reception area of each branch. You can also reach out to our toll-free number 02 696 0000 for further support.

  19. What funding programmes can Khalifa Fund offer and what are the criteria for applying?

    Financing Business Operating Capital; Financing Fixed Asset (Vehicles and Logistics); Financing Fixed Asset (Equipment and Machinery); Financing Invoice Financing (Receivables); Financing Advance Payment Guarantee (APG); Financing E-commerce Inventory; Financing Agri-Tech.

  20. What is the funding amount for the Financing Invoice Financing product?
    • Financing Business Operating Capital: Maximum AED 600K
    • Financing Fixed Asset (Vehicles and Logistics): Maximum 80% of new company assets/vehicles, Max 1Mn AED
    • Financing Fixed Asset (Equipment and Machinery): Maximum 80% of equipment/machinery, Max 1Mn AED
    • Financing Invoice Financing (Receivables): Maximum 80% of the discounted bills, Max 1Mn AED
    • Financing Advance Payment Guarantee (APG): Maximum is 70% of the APG, Max AED 1Mn
    • Financing E-commerce Inventory: The maximum loan amount is 80% of the discounted bills, not exceeding AED 1Mn
    • Financing Agri-Tech: The maximum funding offered is AED 2 million.
  21. What is the minimum cash contribution required from the entrepreneur for the Funding Products?
    • Financing Business Operating Capital: As per the committee assessment
    • Financing Fixed Asset (Vehicles and Logistics): Taking the greater of two values: either 20% of the required amount or the remaining amount that exceeds the funding limit.
    • Financing Fixed Asset (Equipment and Machinery): Taking the greater of two values: either 20% of the required amount or the remaining amount that exceeds the funding limit.
    • Financing Invoice Financing (Receivables): Taking the greater of two values: either 20% of the required amount or the remaining amount that exceeds the funding limit.
    • Financing Advance Payment Guarantee (APG): Taking the greater of two values: either 30% of the required amount or the remaining amount that exceeds the funding limit.
    • Financing E-commerce Inventory: Taking the greater of two values: either 20% of the required amount or the remaining amount that exceeds the funding limit.
    • Financing Agri-Tech: Either 10% of the required amount or the remaining amount that exceeds the funding limit.
  22. What is the maximum repayment period and grace period for the Funding Products loan?
    • Financing Business Operating Capital: The maximum repayment period is 12 months, following a 3-month grace period.
    • Financing Fixed Asset (Vehicles and Logistics): The maximum repayment period is up to 36 months, following a 3-month grace period.
    • Financing Fixed Asset (Equipment and Machinery): The maximum repayment period is up to 36 months, following a 3-month grace period.
    • Financing Invoice Financing (Receivables): The repayment is a one-time bullet payment linked to the contract, following a 3-month grace period.
    • Financing Advance Payment Guarantee (APG): The repayment should not exceed 36 months. The grace period option is according to the contract.
    • Financing E-commerce Inventory: The maximum repayment period is 36 months, following a grace period of 3 months.
    • Financing Agri-Tech: The repayment period extends from 24 to 48 months, following a grace period of 6 to 18 months.
  23. What are the Financing Agri-Tech products covering sectors and technologies?

    Precision Agriculture: A data-driven approach that integrates technology, data analytics, and informed decision-making.

    Vertical Farming and Controlled Environment Agriculture: Involves the use of enclosed environments and advanced technology to create optimal growing conditions for crops.

    Smart Irrigation and Water Management: The use of advanced technologies and systems to optimise water usage in agricultural and landscape irrigation.

    Automation and Robotics: Automation and robotics in agriculture offer opportunities to enhance operational efficiency, reduce labour requirements, and improve crop management.

    Agri-Biotechnology: Agri-biotechnology, also known as agricultural biotechnology, refers to the use of scientific techniques and tools to enhance agricultural productivity, improve crop characteristics, and develop sustainable solutions in the field of agriculture.

    Agriculture Supply Chain and Logistics: Refers to the processes and activities involved in the movement and management of agricultural products from the point of production to the point of consumption.

  24. What are the eligibility criteria to apply for funding?

    The business owner is an Emirati entrepreneur; The business owner’s age is 21+ years old, with the maximum age limit being 60; The business is based in the emirate of Abu Dhabi; The business is in the growth stage (mSME), or is an existing business looking to expand; The business has been operational for a minimum of 2 years, or 3 years if the funding is for a new branch; The business is under one of these sectors: Healthcare, Education, Agriculture, ICT, Tourism & Manufacturing sectors, Innovative projects.

  25. What is the Khalifa Fund Membership Programme?

    It is a programme that allows Emirati entrepreneurs to benefit from Khalifa Fund’s non-financial services, by providing a range of support and empowerment services to entrepreneurs and national projects.

  26. What are the benefits of the Membership Programme?
    1. Opportunities to participate in local and international events and exhibitions.
    2. Issuing letters in the name of the fund addressed to government and private agencies, through which it is directed to provide the required support for the members projects.
    3. Communication with government and private entities to facilitate procedures, solve problems, and discuss opportunities for cooperation with entrepreneurs.
    4. Including the members’ projects in the list of projects nominated by Khalifa. Fund to government and private entities
    5. Exclusive offers and benefits offered by Khalifa Fund’s strategic partners to its members.
    6. Exemption from fees for issuing and renewing commercial licences in most of the emirates.
  27. Who is eligible for the Membership Programme

    Emirati entrepreneurs with 100% Emirati trade licences which are not included in the list of prohibited projects in Khalifa Fund. Funded members are automatically covered in the membership programme. For more information about prohibited projects, you can contact the TAMM call centre on 800 555.

  28. What are the disbursement and loan payment process?

    Khalifa Fund ensures the accuracy of submitted documents and approves them. Subsequently, the loan is disbursed through the approved bank. Khalifa Fund then provides a consultation session for the approved entrepreneur.

  29. What happens if my business fails?

    The entrepreneur bears the responsibility of full loan repayment if the business is unsuccessful. Please contact Khalifa Fund to discuss a suitable settlement plan preferably at the start of repayment difficulties.

  30. Once the loan is finally approved, what is the timeframe for implementing my business?

    For details about the timeframe contact the TAMM call centre on 800 555.

  31. What should I do if I face a problem during the implementation phase? Who should I contact at Khalifa Fund for assistance?

    Contact your Business Counsellor, who is also your Relationship Manager. They are assigned to you during this phase, and can address any inquiries or requests that you might have.

  32. What information and documents are required to be submitted after the approval?

    Yearly – Commercial licence; Yearly and Semi-Annually – Financial reports

  33. What are the training programmes offered by Khalifa Fund?

    Khalifa Fund empowers entrepreneurs with diverse training programmes to enhance their proficiency in essential business domains. Strategic planning, financial management, and market analysis to digital marketing, innovation, and leadership skills. These programmes provide comprehensive tools for entrepreneurs to thrive in a competitive business landscape.

  34. Is it permissible for a single business to submit multiple Funding Product applications, simultaneously?

    If a business qualifies for multiple products, based on eligibility and credit criteria, it will be reviewed and considered. The final decision rests with Khalifa Fund’s Board of Directors.

  35. If I currently hold an existing loan, am I eligible to apply for additional funding, either for the same business or a new business?

    If your previously funded business with Khalifa Fund still has an active loan, you’re eligible to apply for a loan top-up. However, according to the current policy, applying for additional funding for a new business is not permitted.

  36. Are there any restrictions on the number of businesses for which an individual can seek funding?

    An individual can apply for funding for one business at a time until the existing loan is fully settled. After that, they can apply for funding for a new business venture.

  37. Where can I find more detailed information?

    Visit Khalifa Fund on the TAMM platform or call 02 696 0000.

  38. What are the documents required for the application?

    Business Mandatory Documents:

    • Filled in application
    • Valid trade license
    • 6 months of bank statements
    • Audited financial statement (minimum 1 year)
    • Corporate AECB report
    • Rental contract

    Personal Mandatory Documents:

    • Entrepreneur’s valid passport copy
    • Entrepreneur’s valid Emirates ID
    • Entrepreneur’s Family Book
    • Security clearance form
    • Salary certificate or proof of income (not older than 3 months)
    • Personal bank account statements (last 6 months)
    • Entrepreneur’s scored report from Al Etihad Credit Bureau (AECB)