Global Ventures: Pioneering Growth-Stage VC Investments in MENA

Global Ventures Is a growth-stage venture capital firm based in Dubai. The firm backs globally-minded founders, leading scalable technology companies that transform emerging markets and the world. With over 50 investments in its portfolio, it is one of the leading VC firms in the MENA region.

• Year Established: 2018
• HQ: Dubai, UAE
• AUM: US$ 400M
• # of Portfolio Companies: 60
• % of companies in Egypt: 30%
• Avg # of deals per year: 20-30
• Number of exits: 6
• Funding Stage: Seed, Series A and B
• Ticket Size: N/A
• Team Size: 20-25
• Website: https://www.global.vc/

Founded in 2018 by Noor Sweid, Global Ventures set off to support regional founders looking to solve emerging market challenges that address basic human needs such as food security, access to healthcare, and access to financial services in the Middle East and Africa region. Noor often states, “we’re addressing a region with 1.5 billion people, where half of the population is under 30 years old. There’s talent, there’s fast-paced digital adoption, and real problems that need to be solved.” Global Ventures has funded 60 startups across at least 12 different sectors like healthtech, fintech, e-commerce, logistics and supply chain, since it first started investing in 2019.

In Egypt specifically, Global Ventures has invested in 12 Egyptian startups, with its first investment taking place at the end of 2019. Noor commented, “We are proud of all our investments in Egypt and the impact they have had both socially and financially. It is promising to see the startups we invest in grow their reach and expand their offerings as they enter new markets and focus on curating solutions which can be used across borders.” 

In frame: Noor Sweid, Founding Partner of Global Ventures

Global Ventures’ approach goes beyond mere financial investment as the firm guides its portfolio companies through critical growth phases, participating in funding rounds and leading strategic initiatives. This active involvement is crucial in empowering startups to navigate the challenges of scaling and market penetration. Moreover, the firm’s investment choices reflect a deep confidence in the Egyptian market potential and an understanding of the evolving needs of the global economy. “Egypt’s prime geographical positioning on the northeastern edge of Africa, coupled with its proximity to West Asia, establishes it as a springboard for Gulf companies to venture into Africa and vice versa,” says Noor. 

She continues, “Its sheer size is an important contributor – Egypt has a large and diverse population which is largely underserved across vital sectors, including healthcare, financial services, education and commerce… which makes Egypt ideally placed for interregional, intercontinental expansions; it is one of the market’s greatest advantages”. The ecosystem isn’t without its challenges, of course. Global Ventures recognizes the need for better access to early-stage capital in the region. Noor suggests that through collaboration and targeted support, Egypt can cultivate founders who are not only innovative but also equipped to drive sustainable growth. 

Noor tells us that their portfolio companies in Egypt have consistently unique narratives, a strong sense of purpose, and are addressing real-life challenges in their communities and beyond. In essence, Global Ventures’ investment journey in Egypt isn’t just about funding startups and supporting the entrepreneurial economy; it’s about fueling a movement. They’re setting the stage for Egypt to become a hub of innovation and entrepreneurship, promising to shape the future of not just a nation, but a region and beyond.

To know more about Global Ventures: Watch the Perfect Pitch Podcast Ep 2 with Noor Sweid

 

Next Read: Egypt’s Most Active Investors: The Global, Regional & Local Investors Fueling the Ecosystem

 

Read more in the Special Report, ‘Investing in Egypt’s Startup Ecosystem’.