In the dynamic landscape of the Middle East, angel investor networks and venture builder platforms play a critical role in fostering entrepreneurship and driving economic growth. These entities provide much-needed support to early-stage startups, offering not just capital, but also mentorship, strategic guidance, and access to valuable networks. This article explores some of the most prominent angel networks and venture builders across the MENA region, excluding Saudi Arabia (KSA) and the United Arab Emirates (UAE), highlighting their unique contributions to the startup ecosystem.

360 Nautica

360 Nautica is a venture builder and growth capital platform that has been supporting entrepreneurs for over a decade. This angel network offers mentorship, networking, incubation services, and strategic investments to help startups succeed. Operating across the Middle East and Asia, 360 Nautica provides the expertise, funding, and business services needed to turn innovative ideas into thriving companies. With a sector-agnostic approach and a deep understanding of various industries, they are an ideal partner for entrepreneurs aiming to create VC-ready businesses.

Angel Investments

Angel Investments LLC, based in Muscat, Oman, is a leading early-stage investor group founded by successful serial entrepreneurs. Focused on innovative, technology-driven startups with high growth potential, this angel network plays a key role in Oman's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Beyond funding, they offer expertise, strategic partnerships, and a structured investment process. Comprised of experienced entrepreneurs and business leaders, Angel Investments LLC aims to foster innovation, create jobs, and generate wealth for a new generation of Omanis, all while maximizing returns through careful due diligence and risk management.

Angivest Ventures

Angivest Ventures is a Bahrain-based angel investment group funding innovative startups and early-stage companies. They offer seed investments of $25,000 to $100,000 per round, along with strategic guidance and investor connections. Focused on technology-driven ventures solving real-world problems, Angivest aims to foster entrepreneurship and innovation. The group provides not just capital, but also mentorship and operational support, helping entrepreneurs refine their business plans and connect with potential investors. With a philosophy centered on promoting a culture of innovation and integrity, Angivest Ventures strives to create value for both investors and society.

Doha Tech Angels LLC

Doha Tech Angels (DTA) is Qatar's first private investment club, focusing on early-stage, high-growth tech startups. Registered with the Qatar Financial Center, DTA invests in Seed to Series A ventures with strong founding teams and proven customer traction. Led by 15 founding partners from diverse sectors, DTA offers more than just capital; it provides valuable experience, networks, and industry expertise to its portfolio companies. The network targets scalable, disruptive technologies in Qatar, MENA, and beyond, aiming to foster innovation and growth in the startup ecosystem.

IRAQ Angel Investors Network by Kapita

The IRAQ Angel Investors Network, initiated by Kapita, is Iraq's first dedicated angel network. It aims to connect experienced investors with promising local startups, fostering entrepreneurship and revitalizing the private sector. The network provides investors with knowledge, skills, and connections while offering startups access to seed funding and valuable expertise. By addressing challenges like deal sourcing and investment diversification, it seeks to overcome barriers to angel investing in Iraq and play a crucial role in developing the country's startup ecosystem.

Seeders-LWAF

Seeders-LWAF is Lebanon's pioneering structured and syndicated Business Angels program, managed by IM Capital. This network brings together qualified investors committed to supporting the Lebanese entrepreneurial ecosystem by providing smart capital to early-stage, high-risk ventures. Uniquely, Seeders-LWAF offers an educational component through its MasterClasses in Business Angels (MBA) program, partnering with GoBeyond to train and graduate new, eligible Business Angels. This approach not only injects much-needed capital into Lebanon's startup landscape but also cultivates a growing community of informed and capable angel investors to sustain and expand the country's entrepreneurial growth.

Startlabz

Startlabz is a MENA-focused Angel Syndicate Network founded in 2019 to support early-stage (pre-seed) startups. The program offers comprehensive assistance to entrepreneurs, including idea validation, pitch refinement, and access to angel investors through virtual pitch events. Startlabz consists of several regional angel investment clubs, each comprising investors with shared geographical and investment objectives. By providing startups with the tools to perfect their business models and connect with potential investors, Startlabz aims to bridge the gap between innovative ideas and institutional investment, fostering a robust entrepreneurial ecosystem across the MENA region.

Tenmou

Tenmou is Bahrain's first Business Angels company, focusing on tech-driven startups and ecosystem building. Established with support from the Bahrain Economic Development Board and Bahrain Development Bank, Tenmou provides seed capital and mentorship to high-potential, innovative Bahrain-based entrepreneurs. The company connects startups with experienced business angels - successful businesspeople and entrepreneurs who offer expertise and funding. Tenmou's unique approach combines financial support with valuable guidance from reputable angel shareholders, aiming to maximize the success chances of promising local ventures and contribute to Bahrain's entrepreneurial landscape.

Tripoli Angels Network

Tripoli Angels Network is a platform connecting investors with promising Tripoli-based startups and early-stage businesses. Managed by Tripoli Entrepreneurs Club, it offers more than just funding, providing startups with mentorship and valuable networks. The network benefits investors by simplifying the angel investing process, offering pre-screened opportunities, and enabling portfolio diversification. It aims to foster Tripoli's startup ecosystem while focusing on ventures with strong teams, innovative products, and growth potential. Through a structured selection process, Tripoli Angels Network creates value for both investors and entrepreneurs in the region.

The Middle East is home to a diverse array of angel investor networks and venture builder platforms, each contributing to the growth and success of startups in their respective markets. From Bahrain to Iraq, and Oman to Lebanon, these entities are essential in shaping the future of entrepreneurship in the region. By providing capital, expertise, and support, they not only help startups thrive but also contribute to the broader economic development of their countries. As these networks continue to evolve, they will undoubtedly play an even greater role in driving innovation and creating opportunities across the MENA region.