Al Ansari Exchange & Western Union announces start of 2014 edition of inter-university ‘Business for Better’ competition

Al Ansari Exchange, a UAE-based foreign exchange and worldwide money transfer company, and Western Union, a leader in global payment services, have announced that the inter-university “Business for Better” competition this year will begin on March 25. Now on its 3^rd year, the competition is open to all second year university students in the UAE. It requires the students to show off their skills and talents by submitting sustainable and for-profit business proposals.

The “Business for Better” competition was launched in 2011 during the celebration of the 15^th anniversary of the strategic affiliation between Al Ansari and Western Union. The yearly contest is in line with the two leading companies’ social goal to give back to the community by assisting university students in their education. It also aims to provide a platform for the two organizations to collaborate with and discover talented young people who are capable of developing business ideas that are both sustainable and profitable. Just like the previous years, scholarships amounting to AED 285,000 will be available to the top three winners this year.

Rashed Ali Al Ansari, General Manager, Al Ansari Exchange, said: “The ‘Business for Better’ competition is a testament to the long-lasting relationship between Al Ansari Exchange and Western Union, further reinforced with the shared commitment of supporting the education sector of the UAE. We hold a common belief that today’s young generation plays a vital role in attaining economic and social development as the future leaders of our country. Moreover, it is our social responsibility to support students who are committed to developing business proposals that have positive impact on the society. We invite all qualified students to make a difference by joining and submitting their unique and sustainable business ideas to us.”

Hatem Sleiman, Regional Vice President, Middle East at Western Union said:  “At Western Union we know that education is the surest path to a better future, that’s why it is our cause of choice as we give back to the communities we serve. Western Union is a purpose-driven brand with a unique model. Our products and services help millions of people seek a better future through education and other tools, with education being the second main reason why people remit money in the UAE.”

“In its third year, Business for Better competition demonstrates our commitment to grow young minds and create opportunities for all. We are pleased to extend the excellent collaboration we have with our long term agent Al Ansari Exchange and provide students with a platform to further enhance their skills by sharing their ideas with, and learning from business leaders and their fellow students from other universities. We are eagerly awaiting the business proposals of our bright students as we look forward to even greater participation this year.”

To participate, a team of two to three members must meet the eligibility criteria enumerated at www.business4better.ae. The student teams are required to submit their application forms and concept papers from March 25 until May 5. An evaluation team will choose the finalists based on the submitted concept papers. The shortlisted teams will then be required to submit their business plans and present them during the final round before the panel of judges. All finalists must submit their business plans on or before May 25. The complete details of the competition are available at www.business4better.ae.