We are delighted to have Jassim Alharoon, Co-Founder and CEO of Fai, join us for this interview. Jassim's journey into entrepreneurship began with a keen observation of the challenges businesses face with finance and tax management. This gap in the market motivated him to develop a technological solution that simplifies these processes, making them more accessible and affordable for SMEs.

Jassim's extensive background in strategy, analysis, and financial oversight has been instrumental in shaping Fai's mission and vision. In this conversation, Jassim shares his insights on starting a business, the importance of continuous learning, and his advice for aspiring entrepreneurs. His story is one of focus, innovation, and unwavering commitment to solving real-world problems.

Why did you choose to start a business?

I saw businesses struggling with finance and tax management and wanted to create a technological solution that simplifies and makes it more affordable. This gap in the market drove me to take action and innovate.

How did you start your business?

After realizing overthinking wouldn't help, I reached out to a few friends who shared my vision, and we started together. We began with our combined experience and refined our approach as we went along.

What do you wish you’d known before you started your business?

There are countless things I wish I had known, but waiting to know everything would have meant never starting. It's crucial to accept that you will never have all the answers and to maintain a mindset that views every step as a work-in-progress. Embracing continuous learning and improvement is essential for entrepreneurial success.

Did you have any support in your journey?

Yes, family and friends' support has been crucial. Their encouragement and belief in our vision provided the foundation for our business.

What is your greatest challenge as a business owner?

Maintaining a work-life balance and finding the time to shut my mind off and recharge have been my greatest challenges. The demands of running a business can be overwhelming, and it’s essential to find ways to manage stress and avoid burnout.

What advice would you give to your past self before opening your own business?

Don’t wait—start earlier! The longer you wait, the more opportunities you miss. Taking that initial leap is crucial, and everything else will fall into place as you move forward.

Reflecting on your path to entrepreneurship, what key piece of advice would you offer to aspiring founders ?

Focus, focus, focus! If you feel you are 70% ready, take the plunge and don't wait for perfection. Staying committed and focused on your goals is vital, and you must be willing to adapt and learn along the way.