Convention 4.0: Entrepreneurship – Defining a New Economic Order in Lebanon

The Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung (KAS) Lebanon Office hosted the last session of the Convention 4.0: “Entrepreneurship – Defining a New Economic Order in Lebanon” at Saint-Joseph University of Beirut on 25 October 2025. The event brought together entrepreneurs, industry leaders, and policymakers to explore how social innovation, women-led enterprises, and public–private dialogue can shape Lebanon’s path toward economic resilience and inclusive growth.

Panel 1: Social Enterprises – Key Factors in Defining a New Economic Order

Moderated by Constantin Salameh, the first panel examined how social enterprises can contribute to a new and sustainable economic order in Lebanon. Speakers Mr. Anthony Jabbour, Mrs. Yolla Sarieddine, and Mrs. Maya Rahal discussed models for scalable social innovation, the role of access to finance, and strategies for integrating social impact into business development.

Panel 2: Women Entrepreneurs – Major Actors in Shaping Social Enterprises and the SME Ecosystem

Moderated by Lina Hamdan, this session highlighted the central role of women entrepreneurs in driving innovation and building resilience in Lebanon’s SME landscape. Speakers Mrs. Rima Freiji, Mrs. Abir Chebaro, and Mrs. Jennifer Muller Mansour shared their experiences navigating Lebanon’s entrepreneurial environment and called for stronger policy frameworks to ensure gender-inclusive growth and equitable opportunities.

Panel 3: Conversation with the Minister of Industry

The final session featured a conversation between Rami Nassar and H.E. Minister of Industry Joe Issa El-Khoury, who reflected on the government’s efforts to support entrepreneurship and local production amid structural economic reforms. The Minister reaffirmed the importance of collaboration between the private sector, academia, and policymakers to foster innovation-driven growth and strengthen Lebanon’s industrial base.

Conclusion

The event concluded with a call for collective action to create an enabling environment for entrepreneurs and innovators. Participants underlined that sustainable recovery requires transparent governance, youth engagement, and the empowerment of women and social enterprises as key pillars for rebuilding Lebanon’s economy.