e& ventures is the corporate venture capital arm of e& (formerly Etisalat Group), headquartered in Abu Dhabi. It invests primarily in early- and seed-stage technology startups, focusing on sectors such as digital services, fintech, and communications. The typical investment range starts at $100K, with a strong emphasis on supporting UAE-based innovation. Notable investments include Kitopi and Swvl, demonstrating its active role in nurturing local startup growth and technological advancement.
Typical Funding Amount: e& ventures typically invests in early- and seed-stage technology startups with a starting investment amount around $100,000 USD. Their focus is on supporting UAE-based innovation, particularly in digital services, fintech, and communications sectors.
Funding Amount Range: $100,000 and above, with typical Series A-B investments ranging from $5 million to $30 million USD
Time to Funding: The average timeline from application to funding decision for e& ventures, a corporate venture capital arm investing in seed-stage startups in the UAE, typically ranges from 3 to 6 months. This includes stages such as application review, due diligence, negotiation, and closing, aligning with common venture capital funding timelines for early-stage companies.
The application process for seed funding in the UAE, applicable to corporate venture capital arms like e& ventures, generally involves the following steps:
Post-funding, startups should efficiently allocate resources as planned, build a strong team, focus on growth metrics, and maintain good investor relationships to support future funding rounds.
This process is supported by preparation steps such as refining your business model, developing a minimum viable product, creating a pitch deck, validating your idea with early customers, and setting clear funding goals. Networking through professional platforms and startup events is also critical to increase chances of success. This framework aligns with typical seed funding journeys in the UAE and is relevant to e& ventures' focus on early-stage tech startups in the region. (Funding Souq)
To qualify for seed-stage funding from e& ventures, startups must:
These criteria ensure alignment with e& ventures’ mandate to back technology disruptors, foster innovation, and build strategic partnerships that drive digital transformation in the MENA region and beyond.
For seed-stage startups seeking corporate venture capital funding in the UAE, such as from e& ventures, focus on building a scalable business model and a compelling pitch deck that highlights your unique value proposition, market opportunity, and traction. Engage actively in networking events like the International Investor Summit and Dubai Startup Networking Event to build relationships with investors. Participate in pitching competitions such as Make It In The Emirates (MIITE) and GITEX Future Stars to gain visibility and feedback. Conduct thorough market research with data-driven insights to validate demand and competitive positioning. Prepare comprehensive due diligence materials including corporate, legal, financial, and technical documentation. Align your startup with UAE innovation priorities and demonstrate potential economic impact, including job creation. Tailor your approach to the strategic interests of corporate venture arms focused on UAE-based innovation to maximize your chances of securing seed funding.
| Feature | e& ventures | Angel Investors (e.g., Dubai Angel Investors) |
|---|---|---|
| Type | Corporate Venture Capital arm of e& (Etisalat) | Member-led Micro-VC and Angel Networks |
| Focus | Early and seed-stage technology startups | Seed and Series A early-stage startups |
| Investment Range | Typically starts at $100K | $100K to $250K per investment, co-investment up to $2M |
| Sector Focus | Digital services, fintech, communications | Technology-driven businesses, sector agnostic but tech-focused |
| Notable Investments | Kitopi, Swvl | Various UAE tech startups (e.g., Voicea, Zbooni, Money Fellows) |
| Application Process | Corporate-led evaluation, strategic alignment focus | Detailed pitch, traction, market opportunity, financials, team, competition |
| Eligibility Criteria | UAE-based innovation, early-stage tech startups | Minimum viable product, customer traction, seed/Series A stage, dynamic teams |
| Funding Stage Tips | Align with e& group verticals, leverage network, focus on scalable tech innovation | Demonstrate market traction, strong team, detailed financials, build trust and relationships |
| Advantages | Strong corporate backing, strategic synergies with e& group, access to large telecom network | Fast decision turnaround, active mentorship, repeat investments, broad investor base |
| Limitations | Larger average investment focus on Series A-B, seed investments less publicized | Member-managed, not a traditional fund, may affect speed and scale |
This table summarizes key features, advantages, and limitations of e& ventures as a corporate venture capital option for seed companies in the UAE, contrasted with typical angel investor networks. It helps startup founders quickly identify suitable funding paths based on stage, sector, and strategic fit.
For seed-stage startups in the UAE seeking corporate venture capital funding, e& ventures (formerly Etisalat Group's corporate VC arm) is a top option, focusing on early-stage tech startups in digital services, fintech, and communications. They typically invest starting at around $100K, supporting UAE-based innovation with strategic synergies across e& Group's ecosystem. Founders should prepare a scalable business model and a concise pitch deck highlighting the problem, unique solution, market opportunity, and realistic financials to attract attention. Networking at UAE startup events like the International Investor Summit and participating in pitching competitions such as GITEX Future Stars can increase visibility and investor engagement. Building relationships with investors beforehand and tailoring pitches to their interests improves success chances. Compliance with UAE business regulations and leveraging government grants or incubators alongside corporate VC can enhance funding prospects. Overall, seed-stage founders should focus on demonstrating market traction, scalability, and alignment with e& ventures' strategic sectors to maximize their chances of securing funding and accelerating growth in the UAE ecosystem.
FAB Ventures is the strategic corporate venture capital arm of First Abu Dhabi Bank (FAB), based in Abu Dhabi, that partners with and invests in early-stage fintech, artificial intelligence, and enterprise SaaS startups across the UAE and wider MENA region. It focuses on seed and Series A rounds, typically deploying investment tickets from around USD 250 000, to support high-growth potential ventures aligned with FAB’s innovation goals. By leveraging FAB’s financial expertise and regional network, the fund helps startups scale through tailored capital, strategic guidance, and market access, making it a crucial avenue for UAE-based founders seeking growth-stage funding and corporate partnership.
Typical Funding Amount: Typically starting at approximately $250,000 USD for seed and Series A stage investments.
Funding Amount Range: USD 250,000 – USD 500,000
Time to Funding: The average timeline from application to funding decision for venture capital funding in the UAE, including seed stage investments like those by FAB Ventures, typically ranges from three to six months. This timeline covers the entire process from the first call or pitch to the investor, through due diligence, term sheet negotiation, and final funding transfer. The duration can vary based on preparedness and agreement speed between founders and investors.
This process ensures that startups aligned with FAB Ventures’ focus areas and growth potential receive tailored funding and support to succeed in the MENA region’s competitive market.
Startups headquartered in the UAE or elsewhere in the MENA region; operating in the fintech, artificial intelligence, or enterprise SaaS sectors; at the seed or Series A funding stage; seeking initial investment tickets starting from US$250,000.
For seed-stage startups seeking funding from corporate venture capital (CVC) arms like FAB Ventures in the UAE, actionable tips to maximize funding success include:
These tips help seed-stage startups effectively approach CVCs like FAB Ventures, enhancing their chances of securing seed funding and strategic support in the UAE ecosystem.
| Feature | FAB Ventures | Competitor CVC A | Competitor CVC B |
|---|---|---|---|
| Investment Focus | Fintech, AI, Enterprise SaaS | Industry-specific (e.g., Healthcare, Climate Tech) | Broad tech and digital media |
| Target Stages | Seed, Series A | Series A, Series B | Seed to Growth |
| Ticket Size | From $250K | From $500K | From $100K |
| Geography | MENA (UAE headquarters) | Global with local offices | Regional (GCC) |
| Notable Investments | Supported innovative UAE/regional startups | Several unicorn exits | Multiple cross-border deals |
| Application Process | Direct application via FAB Forward & pitch submissions | Invitation via network referrals | Open online portal |
| Eligibility Criteria | Fintech/AI/SaaS startups, MENA-based, post-product | Revenue threshold, previous VC backing required | Minimum viable product, team size >3 |
| Advantages | Strong bank backing, specialized focus, regional reach | Large check sizes, global networks | Faster decision timeline |
| Limitations | Narrow sector focus, smaller initial tickets | High thresholds, competitive access | Regional-only focus, less capital availability |
Concrete Advice for Seed-Stage Founders Evaluating FAB Ventures (and CVCs) in the UAE
Additional UAE Resources:
By following these steps, seed‐stage founders in fintech, AI or SaaS can determine if FAB Ventures’ strategic funding aligns with their growth plan—and optimize their application for the best chance of success.
Majid Al Futtaim Ventures is the strategic corporate venture capital arm of Majid Al Futtaim Holding in Dubai, focusing on seed and growth-stage investments primarily in retail technology, consumer experience, and sustainability sectors. It typically deploys initial checks starting at around $200,000, evaluating opportunities through a structured pitch, due diligence, and alignment with its ecosystem, requiring evidence of product-market fit and growth potential. By leveraging the group’s extensive retail and leisure operations, it adds value through market access and operational expertise, making it a significant backer for UAE startups seeking both capital and strategic partnerships. Notable investments include yallacompare, showcasing its interest in fintech platforms that enhance consumer decision-making.
Typical Funding Amount: Approximately $200,000 USD for seed and growth-stage investments
Funding Amount Range: Majid Al Futtaim Ventures typically provides seed and growth-stage investments starting at approximately $200,000 USD. The funding range generally begins at this amount, focusing on retail tech, consumer experience, and sustainability startups in the UAE and beyond.
Time to Funding: The average timeline from application to funding decision for Majid Al Futtaim Ventures seed funding is typically around 6 to 12 weeks. This estimate aligns with common seed-stage corporate venture capital processes in the UAE, where due diligence and evaluation phases can vary depending on the startup and investment specifics.
The application process for Majid Al Futtaim Ventures funding, particularly through the Majid Al Futtaim Launchpad Accelerator Programme, involves several key steps:
The application deadline for the current edition was June 15, 2023, with the program emphasizing support for early-stage startups and SMEs to drive economic growth in the UAE and MENA region.
This structured process ensures startups receive comprehensive support from application through to growth and integration within a leading corporate ecosystem, maximizing their chances of success and funding.
(Majid Al Futtaim Launchpad Programme - AstroLabs, Majid Al Futtaim Launchpad Accelerator Press Release)
Majid Al Futtaim Ventures primarily targets startups based in the UAE at the seed and growth stages. Eligible startups typically operate in sectors aligned with the group's strategic interests, including retail technology, consumer experience, and sustainability. Investment amounts generally start at $200,000. While explicit criteria on founder background or revenue thresholds are not publicly specified, startups should demonstrate potential for growth and innovation within these sectors. Being within or complementary to Majid Al Futtaim's ecosystem is advantageous. Startups should be prepared to engage in a thorough application and due diligence process, showcasing scalable business models and alignment with the group's values and market focus.
For seed-stage startups in the UAE seeking funding from corporate venture capital (CVC) like Majid Al Futtaim Ventures, it is critical to be beyond the idea phase and demonstrate early traction or revenue to attract investment. Networking and building trust within the UAE's relationship-driven ecosystem is essential; founders should connect with experienced local investors and leverage introductions. Structuring the company properly, such as registering in key free zones like DIFC or ADGM, and aligning with UAE strategic sectors like retail tech, consumer experience, and sustainability enhances credibility. Preparation should include a clear, concise pitch deck highlighting the problem, market opportunity, business model, team strength, and financials, along with clean legal and financial documentation. Founders must be ready for rigorous due diligence and multiple investor meetings. Corporate venture arms typically invest starting at $200K and offer strategic value beyond capital. Complementary funding sources include government grants, accelerators, and angel networks. Persistence, cultural understanding, and a strong team are key to maximizing success in securing seed funding from CVCs in the UAE.
| Feature | Majid Al Futtaim Ventures |
|---|---|
| Funding Resource Type | Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) |
| Focus Areas | Retail tech, consumer experience, sustainability startups |
| Startup Stages Supported | Seed and growth stages |
| Typical Investment Amount | Starting at $200K |
| Application Process | Competitive pitch events and accelerator programs (e.g., Launchpad Accelerator) |
| Eligibility Criteria | Startups aligned with retail tech, sustainability, and consumer experience sectors; UAE-based or regional |
| Notable Investments | yallacompare, SeaB Energy, Partanna, Co-Chocolat, Majama, Saanté, SALAD, The Floorr |
| Stage-Specific Tips | Seed stage: Prepare strong business plans, focus on innovation in retail tech and sustainability; leverage accelerator programs for mentorship and market access. |
| Growth stage: Emphasize scalability and integration potential within Majid Al Futtaim's ecosystem. | |
| Advantages | Strong corporate backing with access to retail ecosystem, mentorship, prime retail space opportunities, and sustainability focus aligned with UAE's ESG goals. |
| Limitations | Competitive selection process; focus limited to sectors aligned with Majid Al Futtaim's strategic interests; may not suit startups outside retail or sustainability. |
| Additional Resources | Links to Majid Al Futtaim Launchpad Accelerator, UAE startup ecosystem resources, and ESG initiatives |
Majid Al Futtaim Ventures is a prominent corporate venture capital arm based in Dubai, focusing on seed and growth-stage investments primarily in retail technology, consumer experience, and sustainability sectors. For seed-stage startups in the UAE, this makes them a strategic funding partner especially if your startup aligns with these industries. Their typical investment starts at around $200,000, which is suitable for early-stage companies looking to scale.
To maximize your chances of success when approaching Majid Al Futtaim Ventures, founders should prepare a clear pitch that highlights innovation in retail tech or sustainability, demonstrating how your startup can complement or enhance consumer experiences. Emphasize any traction or pilot projects that show market validation, as corporate VCs often look for startups that can synergize with their existing ecosystem.
Application processes with corporate venture arms like Majid Al Futtaim Ventures may be less formal than traditional VCs but expect to provide detailed business plans, financial projections, and evidence of product-market fit. Networking through industry events and leveraging introductions can significantly improve access.
Founders should also be aware that corporate venture capitalists often bring strategic value beyond funding, including access to a vast network, operational expertise, and potential pilot opportunities within the Majid Al Futtaim group. However, be prepared for longer decision timelines compared to independent VCs due to corporate governance processes.
In summary, seed-stage startups in retail tech, consumer experience, or sustainability sectors in the UAE should consider Majid Al Futtaim Ventures as a valuable funding source. Tailor your approach to align with their strategic interests, prepare thorough documentation, and leverage networking opportunities to increase your likelihood of securing investment.
Additional UAE startup resources and investor networks can complement your fundraising strategy, helping you navigate the local ecosystem effectively.
DP World Ventures is the corporate venture capital arm of DP World, a global logistics leader headquartered in Dubai. It focuses on seed-stage and early-stage investments in startups innovating in logistics, supply chain, and shipping technology, with typical investments starting from $150,000. This funding resource is highly relevant for UAE startups in these sectors, providing not only capital but strategic support aligned with DP World's core business. Notable recent investments include BoxBay and Tradeline, reflecting DP World Ventures' commitment to fostering innovation within its industry domain.
Typical Funding Amount: Approximately $150,000 USD for seed-stage logistics, supply chain, and shipping tech startups in UAE.
Funding Amount Range: DP World Ventures typically invests in seed-stage and early-stage logistics, supply chain, and shipping tech startups with a starting investment amount around $150,000 USD. The fund focuses on strategic and disruptive startups within DP World's core sectors, supporting innovation with typical investments starting from $150K USD.
Time to Funding: The average timeline from application to funding decision for seed-stage venture capital funding in the UAE, including firms like DP World Ventures, typically ranges from three to six months. This timeline covers initial investor pitch, due diligence, term sheet negotiation, and final funding disbursement stages. Preparedness and agreement speed can influence the duration within this range.
This structured process ensures startups receive not only capital but also strategic guidance and market access to maximize their chances of success in the UAE and beyond.
Startups must be seed-stage or early-stage companies operating in the logistics, supply chain, or shipping technology sectors. They should have strategic relevance to DP World's core business areas and demonstrate potential for medium to long-term innovation impact in these industries. The startups are typically based in or have significant operations in the UAE or regions relevant to DP World's global logistics network. Investment amounts usually start from $150,000. The fund follows a thesis-driven investment approach, focusing on disruptive technologies and business models in the supply chain and logistics ecosystem. Founders should be prepared to align their business objectives with DP World's strategic goals and demonstrate scalability and innovation potential.
For seed-stage startups seeking funding from DP World Ventures, it is crucial to align your business with DP World's strategic focus on logistics, supply chain, and shipping technology innovation. Demonstrate how your startup's solution addresses disruptive opportunities in these sectors with a scalable and sustainable business model. Highlight your startup's potential to create medium to long-term strategic relevance to DP World's core operations, such as enhancing supply chain resilience, agility, or sustainability.
Prepare a concise and compelling pitch that clearly articulates your unique value proposition, market opportunity, and how your technology can integrate or complement DP World's ecosystem. Emphasize any early traction, customer validation, or pilot projects that showcase market demand and growth potential.
Understand DP World's investment thesis and focus areas by researching their portfolio and recent investments like BoxBay and Tradeline. Tailor your approach to show how your startup fits within their thesis-driven investment strategy.
Build relationships with DP World Ventures' investment committee and fund managers by engaging in relevant industry events, accelerators, or corporate innovation programs. Speed of investment approvals and alignment of incentives are key, so be prepared with thorough documentation, a clear roadmap, and realistic financial projections.
Leverage DP World's extensive global network by demonstrating your readiness to scale and collaborate within their ecosystem. Show that your team has the expertise and commitment to execute the business plan effectively.
In summary, focus on strategic alignment, clear demonstration of innovation and scalability, strong team capability, and readiness for collaboration within DP World's logistics and supply chain ecosystem to maximize your chances of securing seed funding from DP World Ventures.
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Investment Arm | DP World Ventures, investment arm of DP World, headquartered in Dubai, UAE |
| Focus Stage | Seed-stage and early-stage startups |
| Industry Focus | Logistics, supply chain, and shipping technology startups |
| Typical Investment Range | Starting from $150,000 |
| Notable Investments | BoxBay (high bay storage system), Tradeline |
| Application Process | Direct engagement with DP World Ventures; tailored for startups innovating in core logistics sectors |
| Eligibility Criteria | Startups focused on logistics, supply chain, shipping tech aligned with DP World's strategic sectors |
| Stage-Specific Tips | Seed-stage founders should emphasize innovation in logistics tech, scalability, and alignment with DP World's core business |
| Advantages | Backed by a global logistics leader, strategic support, access to industry expertise and networks |
| Limitations | Focused primarily on logistics-related startups; investment amounts start at $150K, may not suit very early pre-seed or non-logistics startups |
| Additional Resources | DP World corporate website and logistics innovation pages for deeper research |
DP World Ventures is a strategic corporate venture capital arm of DP World, a global logistics leader headquartered in Dubai, focusing on seed and early-stage investments in logistics, supply chain, and shipping technology startups. For seed-stage startups in the UAE operating within these sectors, DP World Ventures offers a relevant and specialized funding source, typically starting investments from around $150,000. Notable recent investments include innovative companies like BoxBay and Tradeline, which align with DP World's core business sectors.
Founders targeting DP World Ventures should emphasize how their startup innovations can integrate with or enhance DP World's logistics and supply chain ecosystem. Highlighting sector-specific technology solutions and demonstrating potential for operational synergy can increase attractiveness.
Application and engagement with DP World Ventures likely require a clear articulation of the startup's value proposition in logistics or supply chain tech, a scalable business model, and readiness for early-stage investment. While specific application processes and eligibility criteria are not publicly detailed, founders should prepare comprehensive pitch materials, including a strong business plan, market analysis, and proof of concept or early traction.
Stage-specific tips for seed-stage founders include focusing on building a minimum viable product (MVP), validating market fit, and preparing detailed financial projections. Establishing connections within the UAE's logistics and trade ecosystem can also facilitate introductions and investor interest.
In summary, DP World Ventures represents a strategic corporate venture capital option for seed-stage startups in logistics and supply chain sectors in the UAE, offering not only capital but potential operational partnership benefits. Founders should tailor their approach to align with DP World's strategic interests and prepare thoroughly to meet early-stage investment expectations.
For deeper research, founders can explore DP World's official channels and UAE startup ecosystem resources to understand current investment trends and network opportunities.
Emirates NBD Ventures is the corporate venture capital arm of Emirates NBD, one of Dubai's leading banks. It focuses on investing in fintech and digital banking startups at the seed and early growth stages, with investment amounts starting from $100,000. The fund aims to support innovative financial technologies that align strategically with Emirates NBD's business objectives. Notable investments include fintech companies like Koinz and NymCard, highlighting its active role in fostering the UAE's fintech ecosystem.
Typical Funding Amount: Emirates NBD Ventures, through its Innovation Fund, typically provides funding starting from approximately $100,000 (USD) for seed and early growth stage fintech and digital banking startups in the UAE. The fund is part of a larger $100 million Innovation Fund established in 2023, focusing on strategic investments in early to growth stage companies relevant to Emirates NBD's business.
Funding Amount Range: USD 100,000 to USD 1,000,000
Time to Funding: The average timeline from application to funding decision for Emirates NBD Ventures, the corporate venture capital arm of Emirates NBD focusing on seed and early growth fintech startups, is typically around 1 to 3 months. This estimate is based on common seed-stage CVC funding processes in the UAE fintech ecosystem, as specific official timelines are not publicly disclosed. Founders can expect initial screening, due diligence, and investment committee decisions within this period.
This structured process ensures that startups aligned with Emirates NBD Ventures' strategic objectives and growth potential are supported effectively from application through to funding and beyond.
Startups must be based in the UAE and operate within the fintech or digital banking sectors. Funding is targeted at seed and early growth stage companies. Investment sizes start from $100,000. Startups should have innovative solutions aligned with Emirates NBD's strategic vision in financial technology. The application process involves evaluation of technical and commercial viability, with a focus on scalability and integration potential. Notable investments include Koinz and NymCard, indicating a preference for fintech startups with strong growth potential.
For seed-stage startups seeking funding from corporate venture capital (CVC) arms like Emirates NBD Ventures in the UAE, success hinges on several key strategies:
These focused preparations increase the likelihood of securing seed funding from UAE corporate venture capital funds like Emirates NBD Ventures, which typically invest from $100K in fintech and digital banking startups showing early traction and growth potential.
| Feature | Emirates NBD Ventures |
|---|---|
| Type | Corporate Venture Capital (CVC) arm of Emirates NBD, a leading Dubai bank |
| Focus Areas | Fintech and digital banking solutions |
| Target Startup Stage | Seed and early growth stages |
| Investment Size | Starting from $100,000 |
| Notable Investments | Koinz, NymCard |
| Application Process | Strategic scouting and evaluation through SEED framework (Scouting, Evaluating, Experimenting, Deploying) |
| Eligibility Criteria | Companies with strategic relevance to Emirates NBD; fintech startups aligned with digital banking innovation |
| Stage-Specific Tips | Approach with clear fintech/digital banking innovation; prepare for technical and commercial due diligence; focus on integration potential |
| Advantages | Strong backing by a major UAE bank; access to strategic partnerships and integration opportunities; focus on fintech innovation |
| Limitations | Primarily focused on fintech/digital banking sectors; investment size starts at seed stage, may not suit very early pre-seed startups |
| Additional Resources | Emirates NBD Innovation Fund page, fintech partnership programs, digital asset lab membership |
This table summarizes Emirates NBD Ventures as a top corporate venture capital option for seed-stage fintech startups in the UAE, highlighting key features, advantages, and limitations to help founders make informed funding decisions quickly. (emiratesnbd.com, fintech-galaxy.com, globalventuring.com)
For seed-stage fintech startups in the UAE, Emirates NBD Ventures offers a strategic corporate venture capital option focused on fintech and digital banking innovations. Their investment sizes start from $100K, making them accessible for early-stage companies aiming to scale. The fund operates under a rigorous SEED framework—Scouting, Evaluating, Experimenting, and Deploying—ensuring that startups align with Emirates NBD's strategic vision and have strong potential for integration into the bank's operations. Notable portfolio companies include Koinz and NymCard, reflecting their focus on impactful fintech solutions.
Founders should prepare to demonstrate the strategic relevance of their technology to Emirates NBD’s core banking and digital services, emphasizing innovation and scalability. While specific application processes and eligibility criteria are not publicly detailed, engaging through Emirates NBD’s innovation and fintech partnership channels can increase visibility. Startups should be ready for thorough technical and commercial due diligence and be open to pilot programs as part of the experimentation phase.
To maximize success, founders at the seed stage should tailor their pitches to highlight how their solutions address real banking challenges and customer needs, and be prepared with robust documentation including business models, technical feasibility, and market potential. Leveraging Emirates NBD’s ecosystem through partnerships and digital asset labs can provide additional growth avenues.
In summary, Emirates NBD Ventures is a compelling funding path for fintech startups in the UAE seeking not just capital but strategic partnership and market integration, especially those with innovative digital banking solutions. Founders should actively engage with Emirates NBD’s innovation platforms and be prepared for a collaborative, phased investment approach.
Additional UAE startup resources and contacts can be found on Emirates NBD’s official innovation and fintech partnership webpages to support deeper research and application readiness.
