SIDF Highlights Role In Development Finance At Momentum 2025 Conference In Riyadh

The Saudi Industrial Development Fund (SIDF) recently participated in the inaugural Momentum 2025 Development Finance Conference. Organised by the National Development Fund (NDF), this event took place from December 9 to 11 at Riyadh's King Abdulaziz International Convention Center. The conference aimed to explore the future of development finance and its role in fostering sustainable growth.

SIDF's involvement highlights its commitment to economic development through financing, advisory services, and knowledge-based programs. These initiatives cater to the needs of manufacturers and investors. The conference gathered global thinkers, investors, and decision-makers to discuss challenges and opportunities in development finance.

During a panel discussion, Prince Sultan bin Khalid bin Faisal Al Saud, CEO of SIDF, emphasised SIDF's long-standing role in enhancing national industries' competitiveness. Over 50 years, SIDF has financed more than 4,200 projects with disbursements exceeding SAR150 billion, attracting nearly SAR800 billion in investments.

Prince Sultan bin Khalid stated that SIDF is now working on creating new financing channels with public and private partners. This initiative aims to ensure sustainable funding for the private sector by attracting capital from financial institutions and investors.

He added: "We have recently launched the world’s largest supply chain financing program, in partnership with Saudi Aramco and the Saudi Electricity Company, benefiting thousands of suppliers and manufacturers." This program is part of SIDF's strategy to support local industries and enhance their global reach.

Collaboration with Saudi Arabia Railways

The conference concluded with SIDF signing a cooperation agreement with Saudi Arabia Railways (SAR). This agreement aims to identify collaboration areas in enabling the industrial sector, including the railway industry. It also focuses on supporting investors in localising goods and services to boost local content.

Momentum 2025 Conference Goals

The Momentum 2025 Development Finance Conference serves as a collaborative platform for advancing development finance solutions. It involves senior government leaders, development finance institutions, investors, and innovators from within and outside Saudi Arabia.

The conference seeks to strengthen partnerships that align ecosystems and transform development priorities into practical initiatives. These efforts contribute to inclusive and sustainable growth aligned with Saudi Vision 2030 objectives.

The National Development Fund uses Momentum 2025 to showcase Saudi Arabia's leadership in various development fields. It highlights the significant role of the national development ecosystem in shaping a sustainable economic and social future.

With inputs from SPA