You can be on Entrepreneur’s cover!

Industry Insider: Nez Gebreel, CEO, Dubai Design And Fashion Council Nez Gebreel, CEO, Dubai Design and Fashion Council offers tips to the region's aspiring design and creative entrepreneurs

You're reading Entrepreneur Middle East, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media.

Dubai Design and Fashion Council
Nez Gebreel, CEO, DDFC

Nez Gebreel, CEO, Dubai Design and Fashion Council offers pointers to the region's aspiring design and creative entrepreneurs on what it takes to turn their passion project into a business venture.

1. It's really all about the product. Everything else will follow.

2. Research your landscape and differentiate your business angle. Determine how your business will stand out within a market where numerous emerging designers are vying for a spot of visibility.

3. Find a niche market. Understand who your core customers are and what they are looking for.

4. Know your competitors. Being aware of what is going on in the design and fashion industry is key. It is an ever-changing industry with new trends and topics making the news on a daily basis.

5. Communication is key. It is important to get the word out on your business and your product on the best channels for it. Know your target audience and aim for them through the popular channels that they frequent.

6. Learn about the basics of copyrights, patents and trademarks, and understand your rights. Intellectual property protection is very important for design and creative businesses.

Related: Fashion Focus: Nurturing Entrepreneurship In The MENA Region's Style Sector

Leadership

You Won't Have a Strong Leadership Presence Until You Master These 5 Attributes

If you are a poor leader internally, you will be a poor leader externally.

Starting a Business

Starting a Business: How to Start a Business in 12 Steps

Starting a business doesn't have to be difficult. Check out this 12-step guide to start your entrepreneurial endeavor the right way.

Women Entrepreneur®

Against All Odds: Nicole Smith-Ludvik, The Woman Who Stood On Top Of The Burj Khalifa For An Emirates Airlines Ad

Professional skydiver and stuntwoman Nicole Smith-Ludvik shared her message of hope, positivity, and courage.

Side Hustle

He Took His Side Hustle Full-Time After Being Laid Off From Meta in 2023 — Now He Earns About $200,000 a Year: 'Sweet, Sweet Irony'

When Scott Goodfriend moved from Los Angeles to New York City, he became "obsessed" with the city's culinary offerings — and saw a business opportunity.

Starting a Business

6 Effective Funding Strategies for Startups

Navigating startup financing is complex. Entrepreneurs find themselves at the crossroads of innovation and survival, where a single decision can either fuel their dreams or extinguish their aspirations. Here we look at six ways you can finance your startup to support your business for long-term success.

Business Plans

Elements of a Business Plan

There are seven major sections of a business plan, and each one is a complex document. Read this selection from our business plan tutorial to fully understand these components.