VC React Podcast (Episode #13)

In this episode, we kick things off by digging into Nuwa Capital and Ajeej Capital's newly launched $100 million regional growth debt fund, Amplify Growth Partnership. We debate the merits of venture debt and explore the debt capital gap for scaling tech startups in the region.

Next up, we examine SHIFT's impressive $82.8 million investment from Merak Capital, delve into the variety of mobility solutions they offer, and discuss what truly qualifies as a growth-stage startup in MENA from both a startup and fund perspective.

We also cover the fascinating Algerian startup LabLabee, which specialises in immersive training for networking and telecom workers, and has recently raised a $3.4 million Seed round. Curious about why many investors remain hesitant about edtech? We get into it!

Finally, a rare positive note from Palestine, where Ibtikar Fund has closed its second venture fund at $25 million, surpassing its original target of $15 million and doubling the size of its first fund. We end with an open discussion about how investors and VCs can better support the ecosystem and people in Palestine.

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This week Ahmad and I were delighted to be joined by the wonderful:

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Aboudi Al-Qattan (Principal DASH Ventures)

Faisal Hakki (Managing Director AB Ventures LP)

Mark Kleyner (Co-Founder & CEO Dream VC)

Tambi Jalouqa (Managing Partner Propeller)

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We covered:

📌 Ajeej Capital and Nuwa Capital launch, Amplify Growth, a $100m fund to boost tech companies in Middle East

📌 Merak Capital invests $82.2 million in Saudi tech-driven mobility platform SHIFT inc.

📌 Algerian edtech LabLabee closes $3.4 million Seed round

📌 Ibtikar Fund Announces Its Final Financing Closing of Fund II ($25M)‍

📌 Global Investors Extend a $5M Line of Liquidity to High-Growth Palestinian Startups

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