MUSCAT, JUNE 23
Oman’s first equity crowdfunding campaign, launched by Omani fintech company Mamun, raised an amount of $50,000 for local freelancing platform, Zameeli, earlier this year.
Speaking to the Observer, Founder and CEO of Zameeli, Tariq al Habsi, underscored the significance of the campaign. “It is a milestone for Zameeli to be the first Omani company to utilise equity crowdfunding for fundraising. This achievement underscores the potential of our platform and reflects the confidence investors have in our mission to empower local freelancers.” According to Al Habsi, the company chose equity crowdfunding in line with its values of inclusivity and transparency.
“Equity crowdfunding was chosen by Zameeli as our fundraising method due to its potential to democratise investment and involve a broader community of stakeholders in our journey. We believe this approach aligns with our values of inclusivity and transparency.”
The funds will be significant in further fueling the company’s growth, said Al Habsi. “The funds raised through equity crowdfunding will be instrumental in fueling Zameeli’s growth and performance. We plan to allocate resources towards platform enhancements, marketing efforts, and expanding our reach to further empower Omani freelancers and businesses alike.”
Founded in 2021, the platform serves as a bridge connecting Omani freelancers with individuals and businesses seeking their services.
“Through our platform, freelancers gain access to a diverse pool of projects, secure payment mechanisms, and opportunities for skill development and networking,” the CEO said.
The platform currently boasts a deck of 1,369 registered and 3,368 Omani freelancers, offering a variety of services related to content creation, such as marketing, and modeling, amongst other fields.
Mohammed al Tamami, Co-Founder and Chief Operational Officer of Mamun, commented: “Zameeli’s equity crowdfunding campaign via Mamun exemplifies our commitment to bolstering the local freelancer economy and pioneering tech innovation, fostering a community where trust-based investments can thrive and reshape Oman’s investment landscape.” In remarks to the Observer, Al Tamami described Zameeli as a key ticket in Oman’s freelancing economy, as it has created thousands of working hours for Omani freelancers.
Additionally, he unveiled that the Zameeli’s sales and job creation matched what was achieved in two quarters last year indicating significant growth.
Furthermore, crowdfunding is driving a cultural change in Oman, as opposed to depending on venture capitalists to support businesses, he pointed out.
As of last March, the company successfully funded eleven businesses, resulting in significant returns for investors, he added.
