The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) startup landscape underwent a transformative period in February 2025, characterized by an unprecedented surge in investment activity. The region witnessed a substantial influx of capital, with startups collectively securing $494 million across a total of 58 distinct deals.

This figure represents a remarkable leap, illustrating a near fivefold increase when compared to the investment figures recorded during the same month in the preceding year.

This dramatic uptick in funding signifies a profound shift in the investment climate, particularly when considering the preceding month's dynamics. In January, debt financing constituted a staggering 90% of the total investment volume, indicating a heavy reliance on loan-based capital.

However, February presented a stark contrast, with debt financing plummeting to a mere 15% of the total investment. This abrupt transition underscores a clear pivot towards equity-based funding, suggesting a renewed investor confidence in the long-term growth potential of MENA startups. When isolating equity investments, February's growth becomes even more pronounced, revealing a 371% month-on-month (MoM) increase in investment activity.

A significant catalyst for this surge was the prominent role played by Saudi Arabia, which emerged as the region's leading hub for startup funding. Saudi Arabian startups successfully raised $250.3 million across 25 deals, establishing a dominant position within the MENA ecosystem.

This surge was significantly amplified by the LEAP 2025 conference, a landmark event that served as a platform for numerous startups to announce the successful closure of their funding rounds. The conference's impact extended beyond mere announcements, fostering a sense of momentum and attracting further investor attention to the Saudi Arabian market.

Following Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) secured the second position, with 15 of its startups raising a total of $203.5 million. While the UAE maintained a strong presence, Egypt experienced a comparatively subdued month, with eight startups raising a combined $27.5 million.

Oman, however, demonstrated a resurgence, reclaiming a spot among the top four with two startups securing $6 million in funding.

The fintech sector continued to assert its dominance, solidifying its position as the most attractive sector for investors. Last month, fintech startups successfully secured $274 million across 15 deals, demonstrating the sector's enduring appeal and its pivotal role in driving financial innovation within the region.

Insurtech emerged as a notable contender, raising $55 million through two substantial deals, while the logistics sector secured the third position, attracting $28.5 million across four deals.

February also witnessed a significant shift towards later-stage investments, indicating a growing investor appetite for mature startups with established track records. Tabby's successful Series E funding round, which garnered $160 million, exemplified this trend.

Similarly, Ula and Merit Incentives each secured $28 million in Series B funding, further underscoring the increasing focus on growth-stage companies. Taager and Khazna also achieved significant milestones, successfully closing their pre-Series B rounds with $6.7 million and $16 million, respectively.

Despite the surge in later-stage investments, pre-seed investments remained prevalent in terms of deal count, with 15 startups securing a total of $22 million. Series A startups attracted $158 million across seven rounds, while 10 seed-stage startups received $27.8 million.

In terms of business models, business-to-business (B2B) startups emerged as the most heavily funded category, securing $191.6 million across 33 deals. Business-to-consumer (B2C) startups raised $138.5 million across 18 deals, while six startups operating in both domains garnered a combined $164 million.

However, a stark gender disparity in funding persisted. Startups led by male founders secured a substantial $429 million, representing 87% of the total investment for the month.

In contrast, startups with female founders received a mere $200,000, while the remaining funds were invested in startups co-founded by both genders.ش

The Middle East and North Africa (MENA) startup scene opened 2025 with a seemingly impressive $863 million in total investments, distributed across 63 funding rounds. However, a closer examination reveals a more nuanced picture. The lion's share, a staggering $768 million, was attributed to debt financing, effectively masking the true state of equity-based investment.

When this debt component is removed, the actual equity investment figures for January 2025 closely resemble those of January 2024, indicating a less dramatic growth trajectory than initially perceived.

While the raw figures suggested a 210% month-on-month (MoM) increase in overall investment, this metric is heavily skewed by the substantial debt financing.

Stripping out the debt from both January's figures reveals a starkly different reality: a 64% MoM decrease in equity-based investments. This highlights the importance of distinguishing between debt and equity when analyzing startup funding trends.

The beginning of a new year often brings a period of cautious observation within the investment landscape. Investors typically adopt a more measured approach, carefully assessing market dynamics and potential risks. Simultaneously, entrepreneurs engage in strategic preparations, refining their pitch decks and meticulously evaluating their business valuations before embarking on fundraising efforts.

Despite this inherent seasonal slowdown, there's a palpable sense of anticipation surrounding the first quarter of 2025. The burgeoning ecosystems in regions like Qatar and Oman, coupled with the ongoing LEAP 2025 event in Saudi Arabia, are expected to inject significant momentum into the MENA startup scene.

Saudi Arabia emerged as the dominant force in January, largely propelled by substantial debt deals involving Lendo and Forus. Saudi startups secured a total of $839.5 million across 21 funding rounds, with a significant $750 million stemming from these two debt transactions alone. This concentration of capital underscores the influence of large-scale debt financing on the overall investment landscape.

In contrast, the United Arab Emirates (UAE) experienced a comparatively subdued month. UAE-based startups collectively raised a mere $14.6 million across 15 funding rounds, a figure considered disappointing relative to the region's usual performance. Egypt followed with $6 million in funding across seven deals. The remaining MENA countries collectively attracted less than $2.5 million in total investments.

The fintech sector emerged as the clear leader in terms of investment volume, amassing $776.6 million across 11 transactions. This dominance was significantly bolstered by the Lendo and Forus debt deals. The proptech sector secured the second position, attracting $38.7 million from four startups, while the e-commerce sector trailed closely behind with $30 million across five deals.

January was characterized by a scarcity of later-stage investment announcements, with the exception of Lendo's post-Series B debt round. The majority of equity investments were directed towards Series A rounds, with two transactions occurring. However, in terms of deal volume, the pre-seed stage took the lead, with 15 startups securing a combined $4.6 million.

Investors continued to demonstrate a strong preference for business-to-business (B2B) models, contributing $692 million to 41 B2B startups. In contrast, business-to-consumer (B2C) startups secured $70.5 million across 20 deals. The remaining funds were allocated to two startups operating under a hybrid B2B/B2C model.

A notable disparity remained in gender-based funding. Startups founded by male entrepreneurs received the lion's share of investments, totaling $795 million across 47 deals. However, startups founded by women demonstrated significant growth, attracting $61.6 million in funding. Approximately $5.6 million was allocated to startups co-founded by both men and women.

Regional Investment Breakdown (January 2025):

The distribution of investment across the MENA region in January 2025 highlighted significant disparities. Saudi Arabia led the pack with a commanding $893.5 million across 21 deals, largely due to the aforementioned substantial debt financings. In stark contrast, the United Arab Emirates saw a comparatively modest $14.6 million distributed across 15 deals. Egypt followed with $6 million from 7 deals.

Further down the list, Oman secured $750,000 from a single deal, while Tunisia attracted $510,000 from two deals. Lebanon saw $259,000 across 5 deals, and Palestine received $100,000 from one deal. Jordan secured $52,000 from a single deal, and Sudan saw $42,000 across 8 deals, illustrating the diverse funding landscape across the MENA region.

So, you're dreaming of launching your own business in 2025? Excellent! The entrepreneurial path is thrilling, but it's not always smooth sailing. Here's a fresh take on ten crucial strategies to boost your odds of success, focusing on the entrepreneur first:

1.  Prioritize Your Well-being: Entrepreneurship can be demanding, but it's crucial to prioritize your physical and mental well-being. Burnout is a real threat. Make time for exercise, relaxation, and activities you enjoy. A healthy and balanced entrepreneur is a more effective entrepreneur. If you're constantly stressed and sleep-deprived, your decision-making and creativity will suffer. Pro Tip: Schedule regular "recharge" time in your calendar and stick to it.
   
   
2.  "Fail Forward" with Intentional Reflection: Failure is inevitable. The difference between successful and unsuccessful entrepreneurs is how they respond to it. Don't just "fail fast"; "fail forward." Implement a process of intentional reflection. After every setback, ask yourself: What went wrong? What did I learn?
   
   How can I apply these lessons moving forward? Perhaps a marketing campaign flopped. Instead of just writing it off, analyze the data: Was the messaging wrong? Was the target audience a good fit? Pro Tip: Keep a "lessons learned" journal to document your reflections and track your progress.
   
   
3. Embrace Continuous Learning: The business landscape is constantly evolving. Commit to continuous learning. Read industry publications, attend webinars, and network with other entrepreneurs. Be open to new ideas and willing to adapt your strategies as needed. If you're comfortable with your current knowledge base, you're likely falling behind. Pro Tip: Identify a few key thought leaders in your industry and follow their work.
   
   
4. Financial Fluency, Not Expertise: You don't need to be an accountant, but you need financial fluency. Understand the key metrics that drive your business. Learn to read a profit and loss statement and a balance sheet. This empowers you to make informed decisions and have productive conversations with your financial advisors.
   
   If you're tracking your sales but not your customer acquisition cost, you're missing a crucial piece of the financial puzzle. Pro Tip: Focus on understanding cash flow – it's the lifeblood of any business.
   
   
5. "Profit First," Not "Pay Yourself Last": Don't fall into the trap of delaying your own compensation. Implement a "Profit First" system from the start. Allocate a percentage of your revenue to your own salary. This reinforces financial discipline and ensures that you're building a sustainable business, not just a passion project.
   
   If you consistently prioritize paying your vendors and neglecting your own salary, you'll quickly burn out. Pro Tip: Consult with a financial advisor to set up a "Profit First" system that works for your business.

6. Curate Your Support Network: Forget the "lone wolf" image. Smart entrepreneurs build a curated support system. Think beyond family and friends. Seek out individuals with specific expertise – a marketing guru, a finance whiz, someone who's navigated regulatory hurdles.
   
   For example, if you're launching a food truck business, a mentor who's successfully navigated local permitting and health regulations would be invaluable. Brussels has a thriving ecosystem; tap into it! Incubators, specialized workshops, and industry-specific mentors are invaluable. Use hub.info's resources and "Who can help me?" tool to find your tribe. Pro Tip: Look for "unconventional" mentors – someone outside your immediate field who can offer a fresh perspective.
   
   
7. "Stress Test" Your Idea: Sharing your idea isn't just about getting validation; it's about stress-testing it. Don't just talk to people who will tell you what you want to hear. Actively seek out critical feedback. Frame it as a collaborative exercise: "I'm working on this – what are the biggest potential roadblocks you see?" This helps you identify weaknesses early on.
   
   Imagine you're developing a new language-learning app. Instead of just asking friends if they like it, ask language teachers for specific feedback on its pedagogical approach and effectiveness. This helps you identify weaknesses early on. Pro Tip: Create a one-page "concept canvas" outlining your key assumptions and share it widely. This encourages focused feedback.
   
   
8. Deep Dive into Niche Markets: "Target market" is too broad. Think niche markets. What specific problem are you solving for whom? The more precisely you define your target customer, the more effectively you can tailor your offering. Don't try to be everything to everyone.
   
   Become an expert in serving a specific segment. Instead of targeting "all dog owners," perhaps focus on "owners of small breed dogs living in apartments" and tailor your products and services to their specific needs. Pro Tip: Create detailed "customer personas" – fictional representations of your ideal customers – to keep your focus sharp.
   
   
9. Craft a Compelling Narrative: Communication isn't just about marketing; it's about storytelling. What's the narrative behind your business? Why are you doing this? What problem are you passionate about solving? A compelling narrative resonates with customers and investors alike.
   
   For instance, if you're creating sustainable clothing, your narrative might center around your passion for environmental protection and ethical manufacturing practices. Pro Tip: Develop a short, memorable "elevator pitch" that captures the essence of your story.
   
   
10. Build a Strong Online Presence: In today's digital world, a strong online presence is essential. Develop a professional website, engage on social media, and consider content marketing to attract your target audience. Your online presence is often the first impression you make, so make it count.
    
    If you're selling handmade jewelry, high-quality product photos and an active Instagram presence are crucial. Pro Tip: Focus on building an email list to nurture relationships with potential customers.

Lendo, a pioneering debt crowdfunding platform based in Saudi Arabia, has announced a significant financial boost with a $690 million warehouse facility secured from global financial giant, J.P. Morgan. This substantial investment marks a pivotal moment for Lendo and underscores the burgeoning growth of the fintech sector within the Kingdom, highlighting the vast potential of SME financing in the Saudi Arabian economy.

Founded in 2019 by Osama Alraee and Mohamed Jawabri, Lendo operates as a sophisticated crowdlending marketplace. It effectively bridges the gap between qualified businesses seeking essential financing and investors looking for attractive short-term returns. This innovative approach to lending has allowed Lendo to carve a significant niche in the Saudi Arabian financial landscape.

The substantial capital injection from J.P. Morgan will be strategically deployed to fuel Lendo's ambitious expansion plans. The funds will be instrumental in significantly increasing Lendo's lending capacity, enabling the platform to support a larger number of SMEs.

Furthermore, the investment will facilitate the development and introduction of more innovative financial products tailored to the specific needs of businesses in the Kingdom. A key priority for Lendo is to broaden its SME coverage across Saudi Arabia, ensuring that businesses in all regions have access to the financing they require to thrive.

This landmark facility not only benefits Lendo but also contributes significantly to the broader economic landscape of Saudi Arabia. It is expected to play a crucial role in driving job creation within the Kingdom, demonstrating Lendo's commitment to fostering domestic economic growth and generating employment opportunities for Saudi citizens.

Osama Alraee, CEO and co-founder of Lendo, expressed his enthusiasm about this transformative development. He emphasized that this landmark facility represents a pivotal moment for both Lendo and the entire Saudi fintech ecosystem. The strong backing from a globally recognized financial institution like J.P. Morgan, he stated, validates Lendo's innovative approach to SME financing and positions the company for significant expansion within the Saudi market.

Alraee underscored that this facility will accelerate Lendo's mission of boosting SME growth while simultaneously contributing to the realization of the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals.

The significance of this investment extends beyond Lendo's immediate operations. It aligns perfectly with the ambitious objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, a national development plan aimed at diversifying the Saudi economy and fostering a thriving private sector. A key target of Vision 2030 is to increase SME lending from 4% in 2018 to 20% by 2030. Lendo's expanded lending capacity, facilitated by the J.P. Morgan facility, will directly contribute to achieving this crucial goal.

George Deves, Co-Head of Northern European ABS at J.P. Morgan, articulated his organization's satisfaction in collaborating with Lendo on this landmark transaction. He acknowledged the vital role of a strong and rapidly growing SME sector in driving the local economy and emphasized that this financing will play a crucial role in supporting the strategic initiative to boost SME lending in Saudi Arabia.

This substantial investment also serves as a powerful signal of growing confidence among international investors in Saudi Arabia's burgeoning fintech sector and its increasingly robust regulatory framework. The Kingdom's proactive approach to creating a supportive environment for fintech innovation has attracted significant interest from global investors, paving the way for further growth and development in this dynamic sector.

Lendo's success in securing this significant financing follows two successful investment rounds. The company's most recent Series B investment round, which raised $28 million, was led by Sanabil Investments, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund (PIF).

This demonstrates the strong interest and support from both local and international investors in Lendo's vision and its potential to transform the SME financing landscape in Saudi Arabia. The participation of other investors, including Shorooq Partners and AB Ventures, further underscores the widespread confidence in Lendo's business model and its future prospects.

Lendo's impressive track record speaks volumes about its success in the market. The platform claims to have facilitated over $667 million in financing through more than 5,000 transactions, generating $33.3 million in returns for its investors. These figures highlight the tangible impact of Lendo's innovative approach to lending and its contribution to the growth of the SME sector in Saudi Arabia.

With the substantial backing of J.P. Morgan and the continued support of its investors, Lendo is poised for further expansion and is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of SME financing in the Kingdom.

UpLevel, a Saudi Arabia-based edtech startup, has successfully secured an undisclosed pre-Seed funding round from a group of angel investors.

Founded in 2024 by Idris Alshayea and Hamad AlLuhaidan, UpLevel is dedicated to enhancing employee performance within organizations.

The company achieves this by connecting companies with a curated network of experienced professional coaches, providing access to specialized career guidance, innovative mentoring programs, and customized training solutions that align with global best practices.

UpLevel's mission is to empower both individuals and organizations to achieve sustainable professional growth and enhance institutional performance.

Press Release:

Saudi edtech startup UpLevel has successfully raised an undisclosed pre-Seed funding round from a group of angel investors.

The company provides intelligent solutions aimed at empowering individuals and organizations to achieve sustainable professional growth and enhance institutional performance. This is achieved through specialized career guidance, innovative mentoring, and training programs designed according to global standards.

In a bid to bolster foreign investment and diversify its economy, Qatar is embarking on a comprehensive legislative overhaul. The country's new Minister of Commerce and Industry, Sheikh Faisal bin Thani Al Thani, recently announced plans to introduce three key pieces of legislation: bankruptcy laws, public-private partnership (PPP) laws, and commercial registration laws.

This legislative push reflects Qatar's ambition to become a more attractive destination for foreign investors. The country has set an ambitious target of attracting $100 billion in foreign direct investment (FDI) by 2030, as outlined in its National Development Strategy.

However, achieving this goal will require significant strides, particularly given that Qatar's current FDI inflows lag behind those of its regional counterparts, Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

In 2023, Saudi Arabia, which shares a similar $100 billion FDI target, witnessed inflows of $26 billion. The UAE, another key player in the region, attracted just over $30 billion in FDI during the same period, according to the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development. In contrast, Qatar experienced negative FDI inflows in 2023, with outflows exceeding new investments.

This disparity highlights the need for Qatar to enhance its investment climate. While the country offers attractive incentives to foreign investors, including favorable tax regimes, access to free zones, and long-term residency options, it faces stiff competition from its neighbors, particularly in terms of regulatory reforms and business-friendly environments.

The UAE and Saudi Arabia have made significant strides in streamlining regulations and improving their overall investment climates. Qatar, recognizing the need to catch up, is now actively addressing these challenges through its comprehensive legislative review.

This review encompasses 27 laws and regulations across 17 government ministries, impacting over 500 business activities.

The new bankruptcy laws are expected to provide a more predictable and efficient framework for resolving business insolvencies, thereby reducing risks for investors. Similarly, the PPP laws aim to facilitate greater private sector involvement in infrastructure development and other key sectors, unlocking new avenues for foreign investment.

The anticipated commercial registration laws are expected to streamline business registration processes, making it easier and more efficient for foreign companies to establish a presence in Qatar.

These reforms are crucial for fostering a more dynamic and competitive business environment that can attract and retain foreign investment.

Beyond legislative reforms, Qatar is also seeking to revitalize its private sector and reduce its reliance on government funding for economic growth.

This shift towards private sector-led development is essential for sustainable economic diversification and long-term prosperity.

By implementing these legislative reforms and continuing to improve its overall investment climate, Qatar aims to attract a greater share of global investment flows, contribute to its economic diversification goals, and solidify its position as a leading player in the regional and global economy.

In a significant move to boost foreign investment and enhance market liquidity, the Saudi Capital Market Authority (CMA) has announced that foreign investors are now permitted to invest in Saudi companies listed on the Saudi stock exchange that own property within the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.

This decision, effective immediately, follows the approval of regulations that exempt these listed companies from the restrictions outlined in the Foreign Ownership of Real Estate Investment Regulations.

This landmark decision is expected to have a profound impact on the Saudi capital market. By allowing foreign investors to participate in companies with real estate assets in these holy cities, the CMA aims to:

• Stimulate Investment: Attract foreign capital, thereby increasing investment activity and overall market liquidity.
• Enhance Market Efficiency: Improve the efficiency and competitiveness of the Saudi capital market on both regional and international levels.
• Support Economic Growth: Contribute to the overall economic growth of Saudi Arabia by fostering development projects in Mecca and Medina.
• Increase Market Attractiveness: Position the Saudi capital market as a more attractive investment destination for both domestic and international investors.

The new regulations governing foreign investment in these companies outline specific guidelines:

• Investment Scope: Foreign investment will be restricted to shares of listed companies or convertible debt instruments, with a collective ownership limit of 49% for non-Saudi individuals and entities.
• Strategic Investor Exemption: Foreign strategic investors are exempt from this ownership limit.
• Real Estate Focus: The regulations specifically target companies with real estate assets within the boundaries of Mecca and Medina.

These regulations aim to provide a framework for foreign investors to participate in the economic growth associated with projects in these holy cities while ensuring compliance with existing laws and regulations related to foreign real estate ownership.

Furthermore, the regulations allow listed Saudi companies to acquire ownership, usufruct, or use rights over properties designated for their headquarters or branch offices within Mecca and Medina, provided these properties are solely used for this purpose and adhere to the relevant exceptions within the Foreign Ownership of Real Estate Regulations.

This latest move by the CMA builds upon a series of initiatives aimed at enhancing the accessibility and attractiveness of the Saudi capital market to foreign investors. These initiatives include:

• Direct Investment: Allowing resident foreign investors to directly invest in the Saudi stock market.
• Swap Agreements: Facilitating foreign investor access to the Saudi stock market through swap agreements.
• Foreign Financial Institution Investments: Permitting qualified foreign financial institutions to invest in listed securities.
• Strategic Investments: Allowing foreign strategic investors to acquire strategic stakes in listed companies.
• Direct Debt Investments: Enabling foreign investors to directly invest in debt instruments.

In 2021, the CMA further expanded foreign investor participation by allowing them to invest in real estate funds focused on properties within Mecca and Medina.

This move aimed to diversify financing channels within the capital market and align with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030, which prioritizes attracting both domestic and foreign investment.

The final version of these regulations was developed following a public consultation process conducted on November 15, 2023. The consultation, conducted through the Istitalah platform (a unified electronic platform for public and government agency feedback) and the CMA's official website, sought public input on the "Regulations for Foreign Investors' Ownership of Shares in Saudi Listed Companies with Investment Properties in Mecca and Medina."

This significant regulatory change is expected to have a positive impact on the Saudi economy, attracting foreign capital and fostering economic growth within the holy cities of Mecca and Medina.

By creating a more inclusive and attractive investment environment, the CMA continues to play a crucial role in supporting the long-term development and diversification of the Saudi capital market.

At the recent World Future Energy Summit, Catalyst, a leading cleantech accelerator, announced a series of significant developments showcasing its commitment to fostering innovation and driving sustainable solutions.

The summit witnessed the launch of three new direct investments by Catalyst, bolstering its support for cutting-edge cleantech companies. These investments targeted Ed Energy, Batsand, and Solomar, each tackling critical environmental challenges with innovative solutions.

Ed Energy, for example, is developing groundbreaking energy storage technologies, while Batsand focuses on carbon-free thermal energy solutions. Solomar, on the other hand, is pioneering innovative waste management solutions.

Furthermore, Catalyst announced the induction of the tenth cohort of startups into its accelerator program. Ten promising companies from the UAE and Egypt were carefully selected to participate in this prestigious program, set to commence in the first quarter of 2025 in partnership with Flat6Labs.

This program provides startups with invaluable mentorship, access to funding, and a supportive ecosystem to accelerate their growth and achieve their sustainability goals.

Catalyst also solidified its commitment to fostering innovation through strategic partnerships with key players in the sustainability landscape. A key partnership was formed with Bee'ah, a leading sustainability and innovation company. This collaboration will focus on identifying and supporting high-potential startups, developing tailored mentoring programs, and facilitating knowledge exchange across critical sectors such as green mobility and waste management.

Furthermore, Catalyst entered into a strategic partnership with Hub71, Abu Dhabi's global technology ecosystem. This collaboration will provide startups with access to a wider network of investors, mentors, and corporate partners within Hub71's thriving ecosystem, opening up new avenues for growth and development.

Startups will also have the opportunity to join the Hub71+ ClimateTech program, a specialized initiative dedicated to supporting climate-focused solutions.

Catalyst also signed an agreement with Flat6Labs, the leading early-stage venture capital firm and the largest startup accelerator operator in the Middle East and North Africa.

This partnership will leverage Flat6Labs' expertise in early-stage venture capital and startup acceleration to enhance the support services offered to Catalyst's portfolio companies, equipping them with the necessary resources and expertise to navigate the challenges of scaling their businesses.

Ahmed Al Baqhi, Chairman of Catalyst and CEO of Masdar City, emphasized the UAE's commitment to fostering a thriving environment for innovation. He stated, "The UAE provides a fertile ground for startups to flourish, offering a wealth of opportunities for both local and global entrepreneurs.

Catalyst is dedicated to nurturing this ecosystem through initiatives like the launch of the new accelerator batch and these strategic partnerships. By supporting these innovative startups, we are not only driving economic growth but also contributing significantly to a more sustainable future for all."

Khalid Al Huraimel, CEO and Vice Chairman of Bee'ah, highlighted the significance of this collaboration: "This partnership with Catalyst will strengthen our commitment to sustainability and inspire a new generation of innovative entrepreneurs.

By working together, we can accelerate the development and deployment of cutting-edge solutions that address critical environmental challenges and pave the way for a more sustainable future."

Ahmed Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, emphasized the importance of empowering startups to drive real and impactful change. "Our partnership with Catalyst reflects our shared vision of supporting entrepreneurs and fostering a thriving innovation ecosystem," he said.

"By connecting startups with the right resources and expertise, we can accelerate their growth and enable them to make a significant contribution to a more sustainable future."

Yahya Hawari, Managing Director of Programs at Flat6Labs, expressed his enthusiasm for this collaboration: "This program will provide startups in the region with the necessary tools and resources to address critical climate challenges and contribute to building a more sustainable future. We are excited to support these ambitious companies as they scale their businesses within the UAE's thriving market."

Catalyst's continued efforts in supporting cleantech innovation will play a crucial role in driving sustainable development across the region and beyond.

By fostering collaboration among key stakeholders, providing access to resources and mentorship, and supporting the growth of high-impact startups, Catalyst is paving the way for a more sustainable future for all.

Source: News

Saudi Arabia solidified its position as the dominant force in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) venture capital (VC) landscape in 2024, attracting a substantial $750 million in funding, according to a report by MAGNiTT, a leading data platform for the venture capital industry.

This impressive figure represents 40% of the total VC capital deployed across the entire MENA region during the year, underscoring the Kingdom's rapidly evolving entrepreneurial ecosystem and its increasing appeal to investors.

The report highlighted a significant surge in VC activity within Saudi Arabia, with a record-breaking 178 deals successfully concluded throughout 2024.

This robust deal flow signifies a strong wave of investor confidence in the Kingdom's burgeoning startup scene and reflects the government's concerted efforts to cultivate a supportive environment for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Key factors driving this impressive growth include:

Vision 2030 Initiatives: The Saudi Vision 2030, a comprehensive national reform program, has prioritized the development of a diversified economy, with entrepreneurship and innovation playing a central role. The government has implemented numerous initiatives to foster a vibrant startup ecosystem, including:

Regulatory Reforms: Streamlining regulations and improving access to funding for startups.

Incentive Programs: Offering attractive incentives and grants to encourage entrepreneurship and attract foreign investment.

Infrastructure Development: Investing in world-class infrastructure, including high-speed internet and advanced technology hubs.

Growing Private Sector Involvement: A burgeoning private sector is actively engaging in the venture capital landscape, with a growing number of angel investors, venture capital firms, and corporate venture arms emerging to support promising startups.

Focus on High-Growth Sectors: Saudi Arabia is witnessing significant VC activity in key sectors such as fintech, e-commerce, healthcare, and renewable energy, aligning with the government's focus on diversifying the economy and addressing national priorities.

Dr. Nabeel bin Abdulqadir Koshak, CEO and Board Member of the Small and Medium Enterprises Authority (SME Authority), emphasized the crucial role of government initiatives and private sector engagement in driving this remarkable growth.

"The continued success of the Saudi venture capital ecosystem is a testament to the visionary leadership of the Kingdom, which has created an environment that fosters innovation and empowers entrepreneurs," Dr. Koshak stated.

Looking ahead, Saudi Arabia is poised to further solidify its position as a leading venture capital hub in the MENA region.

Continued government support, a thriving entrepreneurial community, and a growing pool of talented innovators will undoubtedly fuel further growth and propel the Kingdom towards a future driven by innovation and economic diversification.

Entrepreneurship is always an exciting venture, especially when you're tapping into high-demand industries. As we move into 2025, several sectors are ripe for innovation and growth. Here are five business ideas that could lead to significant profitability:

1. Senior Care Services

With the global population aging, the demand for senior care services is skyrocketing. This presents a golden opportunity for entrepreneurs to start businesses that cater to the needs of the elderly. Services such as home healthcare, assisted living facilities, and specialized senior care centers are in high demand.

Why it's Profitable:

• Aging Population: The aging population is a global trend, ensuring a steady demand for senior care services.
• Niche Markets: Specializing in specific areas, such as dementia care or palliative care, can attract higher-paying clients.
• Recurring Revenue: Many senior care services, such as home healthcare, offer recurring revenue streams.

2. Sustainable Products and Services

Sustainability has become a major consumer trend. Businesses that offer eco-friendly products and services are well-positioned to capitalize on this growing market. From biodegradable packaging to renewable energy solutions and ethical fashion, the possibilities are endless.

Why it's Profitable:

• Consumer Demand: Increasingly, consumers are willing to pay a premium for sustainable products.
• Government Incentives: Many governments offer incentives and subsidies to businesses that promote sustainability.
• Positive Impact: By contributing to a greener future, you can attract environmentally conscious customers and build a strong brand reputation.

3. AI Consulting Services

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing industries across the board. Businesses that can leverage AI to streamline operations, enhance customer experiences, and make data-driven decisions will gain a competitive edge. This creates a significant demand for AI consultants who can help businesses integrate AI solutions effectively.

Why it's Profitable:

• High Demand: AI is rapidly becoming a necessity for businesses of all sizes.
• High-Value Services: AI consulting services can command premium rates due to the specialized skills and expertise required.
• Scalability: As the demand for AI grows, AI consulting businesses can scale rapidly.

4. Digital Marketing Agencies

In today's digital age, a strong online presence is crucial for businesses of all sizes. Digital marketing agencies can help businesses attract and retain customers through effective SEO, PPC advertising, social media marketing, and content marketing.

Why it's Profitable:

• Ever-Growing Demand: As businesses increasingly rely on digital channels, the demand for digital marketing services will continue to grow.
• High-Margin Services: Digital marketing services can be highly profitable, especially for specialized services like SEO and PPC.
• Remote Work Opportunities: Digital marketing agencies can operate remotely, reducing overhead costs.

5. Pet Services and Products

The pet industry is booming, with pet owners investing heavily in their furry companions. Businesses that offer a range of pet services, from grooming and boarding to pet food and accessories, can thrive in this growing market.

Why it's Profitable:

• Emotional Connection: Pets are often considered family members, leading to increased spending on pet care.
• Niche Opportunities: There are numerous niche opportunities within the pet industry, such as specialized pet training or organic pet food.
• Recurring Revenue: Services like pet grooming and boarding can provide recurring revenue streams.

By identifying these high-demand industries and leveraging your unique skills and passions, you can position yourself for success in 2025 and beyond. Remember, the key to building a profitable business is to provide value to your customers and adapt to the ever-evolving market.