In the heart of Aleppo, Hermon Team had the honor of sponsoring Finance Forward, a conference held under the theme “Empowering Syrian SMEs.” The event brought together entrepreneurial thinking, sustainable finance, and corporate innovation in a space defined by dialogue, ambition, and practical exchange. With the participation of more than 115 entities from various economic sectors, the conference reflected a growing collective commitment to shaping a stronger and more inclusive economic future for Syria.
Designed as more than a conventional event, Finance Forward offered a focused agenda that moved from opening remarks into two major panel discussions and interactive dialogue sessions. These conversations addressed some of the most pressing questions facing Syrian businesses today, including the realities of financing in Syria, missed opportunities in the market, and the role financial institutions can play in expanding support for small and medium-sized enterprises.
The first discussion centered on the financing landscape from the perspective of business owners and market actors. Participants explored the growing financial needs of SMEs, the barriers that prevent many businesses from accessing formal financing, and the reasons why some still turn to informal funding channels despite the risks. The dialogue also highlighted the importance of improving financial awareness, building fairer access to finance, and ensuring that women, youth, and rural entrepreneurs are not left behind.
The second discussion turned to the perspective of financial institutions, examining the readiness of SMEs to access finance, the constraints institutions face in lending, and the wider regulatory and economic conditions that shape the market. Participants also discussed the need for stronger trust between businesses and banks, more effective financial products, greater inclusion, and the role of digital financial services and strategic partnerships in expanding opportunities for growth.
Throughout the conference, Finance Forward served as a platform for meaningful exchange between company executives, bank managers, and ecosystem actors. It created space not only to identify obstacles, but also to advance practical and locally grounded solutions capable of strengthening productivity, supporting enterprise growth, and linking Syrian innovation to broader global standards.
The conclusion of Finance Forward was not the end of a conversation, but the beginning of a collaborative journey toward a more inclusive, just, and innovative economy. At Hermon Team, we believe that change begins when local needs are connected to a global vision, and when every economic actor is equipped with the tools, partnerships, and ideas needed to become part of the solution.
