Main reports: On 28 January a new $50m Palestinian private equity fund was announced by the Palestine Investment Fund and Abraaj Capital. $15m has been secured for the fund and the remaining $35m is expected from investors later this year.
The Portland Trust launched a new Corporate Leadership Programme for senior Palestinian executives. Global business leaders and international experts will come to the Palestinian Territory throughout 2010. The first session, held on 6-7 February in Jericho, focused on the topic of mergers and acquisitions.
The Palestinian Information and Communications Technology Incubator (PICTI) began operating in the Gaza Strip on 1 February. It will provide support, advice and professional services to the ICT sector.
36 young entrepreneurs in Jenin and Nablus have set up new businesses after taking part in a Sharek Youth Forum programme. Start-up grants and business training were provided.