M.A.M. builds machinery and momentum from the ground up in Jericho

In 2019, while completing his master’s degree in Business Entrepreneurship, Mohammad Al Masaeid started working on an idea that grew directly from the field. As part of his graduation project, he designed a multifunctional agricultural machine that could reduce the cost and complexity of farm work. That project later earned him seven patents.

A year later, he founded Masaeed for Agricultural Mechanization (M.A.M.) in Al-Jiftlik, Jericho. At first, he focused on building equipment for his own land, testing and refining the tools he had designed. He started small, using local materials and relying on his own welding, painting, and finishing skills to manage the entire production process.

What set M.A.M. apart from the start was its focus on low-cost, customised equipment tailored to the specific needs of Palestinian farmers. The business developed steadily, balancing design, production, and practical application. By 2024, Mohammad had expanded his offering to include twenty different types of agricultural tools and machines, from seeders and sprayers to ploughs. The company now produces up to three machines per month and provides maintenance services to clients across the region.

Building the systems behind the machines

Mohammad joined the Riyada programme to gain support in areas of the business that were harder to manage alone. Developed by SPARK and funded by the Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, Riyada is a 13-month initiative that helps entrepreneurs grow their businesses through hands-on training, mentorship, and financial support.

For Mohammad, the programme offered a mix of practical and strategic help.

“Through our participation in the Riyada programme, we were able to purchase accounting software for the business, which has made a real difference,” he said. “We also produced a catalogue to introduce our three most important machines. It’s been helpful to have the right tools to promote what we’re building.”

The support came at a time when M.A.M. was preparing to scale. With stronger internal systems and clearer communication materials, Mohammad has been able to present the business more effectively and connect with more clients.

Riyada also helps strengthen the broader ecosystem by improving the services offered by Business Support Centres and Higher Education Institutions. The aim is to support entrepreneurs like Mohammad not only at the start, but throughout their journey of growth.

Looking ahead

M.A.M. is already filling a crucial gap for farmers who need affordable, locally designed equipment that suits the conditions of their land. But Mohammad is not thinking only about today. He is planning for the long term.

“We want to keep developing our products, not just for Palestine but beyond. There’s demand for this kind of equipment in many places, and we want to meet it.”

His advice to others who are starting out is clear and direct.

“I encourage every entrepreneur to take part in programmes like Riyada. The support makes a difference, especially when you’re building something from scratch.”

From a student-led design to a growing operation in Jericho, M.A.M. shows how local knowledge, persistence, and the right kind of support can shape a business that grows steadily and works in service of others.