TLDR: The Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO) announced the global expansion of its STRIDE initiative during COMEX 2025 in Oman. This program aims to bolster small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and innovation-driven enterprises (IDEs) by providing access to capital, international markets, and strategic networks. To date, STRIDE has supported over 300 startups, secured more than $20 million in investments, and forged over 20 strategic partnerships. The DCO also highlighted its commitment to responsible digital governance, including an Ethical AI Governance training course.
Muscat, Oman – The Digital Cooperation Organization (DCO), the world’s first standalone international intergovernmental organization dedicated to accelerating an inclusive and sustainable digital economy, officially announced the global expansion of its STRIDE initiative at COMEX 2025 in Oman. The announcement, made during a press conference hosted by Dr. Hajar El Haddaoui, Director General of DCO, marks a significant step in the organization’s mission to foster digital prosperity worldwide.
The STRIDE initiative is designed to empower small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) and innovation-driven enterprises (IDEs) by facilitating their cross-border expansion, providing crucial access to investments, and promoting comprehensive digital transformation. The program aims to equip startups with the necessary tools and connections to scale sustainably and compete effectively on a global stage.
Highlighting the initiative’s impact, the DCO confirmed that STRIDE has already supported more than 300 startups, unlocked in excess of $20 million in investment, and secured over 20 strategic partnerships. These achievements underscore the program’s effectiveness in driving inclusive entrepreneurship and strengthening the competitiveness of DCO Member State economies.
On the sidelines of COMEX 2025, the DCO also hosted its Quarterly Observer Committee meeting, chaired by Oman. The meeting saw representation from over 50 Observers and Partners, emphasizing their vital role in shaping global digital cooperation. H.E. Dr. Ali Al Shidhani, Undersecretary for Communications and Information Technology at the Oman Ministry of Transport, Communications, and Information Technology, chaired the committee. He remarked, “Oman is proud to partner with the DCO in chairing the Observer Committee Meeting during COMEX 2025. This meeting underscores Oman’s commitment to building a prosper digital economy rooted in cooperation and innovation. The strong and diverse presence of our Observers highlights their vital role in advancing digital prosperity. Together with the DCO, we are strengthening the role of Member States and Observers, and reinforcing our shared vision for a future where digital opportunity is accessible to all.”
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Further demonstrating its commitment to responsible digital development, the DCO also conducted an Ethical AI Governance training course during COMEX 2025. This course equipped participants with practical tools to advance responsible AI adoption and strengthen global digital governance, indicating the DCO’s proactive approach to emerging technologies. The DCO continues to work with governments, the private sector, civil society, and international organizations to promote digital inclusion, enable cross-border data flows, empower women and youth, and support entrepreneurs and SMEs.
