In a strategic move aimed at enhancing financial sustainability and empowering the third sector in Saudi Arabia, the Nama Endowment Fund launched its comprehensive strategic plan. This took place during the Fund's first board meeting, chaired by His Excellency the Deputy Minister of Environment, Water and Agriculture, Engineer Mansour Al-Mashiti, where the foundation was laid for a new phase of organized institutional work aimed at maximizing the developmental impact of the non-profit sector.
Keeping pace with the Kingdom's Vision 2030
This initiative comes within a broader national context that aligns perfectly with the objectives of the Kingdom's Vision 2030, which places great importance on the non-profit sector and its development. The ambitious vision aims to increase the non-profit sector's contribution to the GDP from less than 1% to 5% by empowering civil society organizations and providing them with sustainable financial support. Establishing specialized endowment funds, such as the "Nama" Fund, is one of the most effective tools for achieving this strategic transformation, as it combines traditional philanthropy with modern investment concepts to ensure the continuity of charitable giving.
Corporate governance and effective partnerships
During its meeting, the board discussed the mechanisms for rigorous governance and the formation of organizing committees—essential steps to ensure the transparency and credibility sought by donors and business leaders. The fund aims to build bridges of trust with private sector partners, opening secure channels for contributing to social responsibility programs. The adopted strategy focuses on achieving a precise investment balance that guarantees the growth of the endowment capital over the medium and long term, providing sustainable returns that are reinvested in development projects.
Supporting water, food and environmental security
The Fund's initiatives directly target the needs of the environmental, water, and agricultural sectors—vital sectors that directly impact quality of life. The Fund will support and empower leading non-profit organizations in this field, specifically Reef, which focuses on rural development; Murooj, which is concerned with vegetation cover; and Saqaya, which specializes in water projects. This support will enable these entities to perform their developmental roles with high efficiency and in accordance with best global practices, thus contributing to achieving food and water security and enhancing environmental sustainability in the Kingdom.
Field visit and future outlook
The council members concluded their meeting with a field visit to the central chamber, where they were briefed on the progress of this new institutional model. The “Nama” Fund represents an effective tool for achieving economic and social sustainability, moving beyond the concept of immediate donations to one of long-term social investment that leaves a lasting impact on environmental, water, and agricultural projects, and strengthens the solidarity of society and its institutions in serving the nation.
