VC React Podcast (Episode #18)

In this week's episode, we started with Beta Lab’s $300M fund for deeptech, bridging Saudi and Southeast Asia. We asked whether MENA has the infrastructure to support deeptech, and if this fund will bring in more international partnerships to help further build the ecosystem.

Next, we discussed General Atlantic’s new Riyadh office — a move set to deepen its MENAT presence even further. Following its lead in Insider's $500M Series E, the firm has been active in the region since 2012, deploying close to $1B across companies like eyewa and Property Finder.

Then, we turned the tables and quizzed Ahmad on his latest venture: Revenya Capital, a new revenue-based fund launched with Arzan VC for MENA startups. For fans of non-dilutive financing, this is one to watch.

Finally, we covered NorthLadder’s $10M Series B, targeting Europe for expansion. We explored their model, the challenges of taking a MENA-tested platform to Europe, and why this is a smart play for STC’s tali ventures.

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This week Ahmad and I had the pleasure to be joined by:

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Asher Siddiqui, (General Partner @ Sukna Ventures)

Jamil Shinawi (Founding Partner @ Actual VC)

Omar Rebhan (Founding Partner @ Saudi Angel Investors)

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We covered:

📌 $300 million Beta Lab Fund launches to back Saudi, Asian deeptech startups

📌 General Atlantic announces Riyadh Office opening as firm expands in the Middle East

📌 Arzan VC launches Revenya Capital to back MENA startups

📌 NorthLadder completes $10 million Series B led by tali ventures

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