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Sawari Ventures is a venture capital firm established in 2010 and headquartered in Cairo, Egypt. The firm focuses on investing in knowledge and innovation-based technologies across North Africa, particularly in Egypt, Tunisia, and Morocco. Sawari Ventures aims to empower entrepreneurs to create innovative solutions that contribute to economic growth in the region. The firm manages two funds: North Africa Fund I and Egypt Fund I, which combine international and domestic capital from development finance institutions (DFIs) and local stakeholders.
As of now, Sawari Ventures has invested in 19 early and growth-stage companies, demonstrating a commitment to fostering innovation in the region. The firm has gained recognition as one of North Africa's leading venture capital firms, leveraging its dual fund structure to attract both international and domestic investors. Notable milestones include significant investments in high-potential startups and partnerships with various accelerators to support the early-stage ecosystem.
Sawari Ventures invests primarily in early and growth-stage startups across several sectors, including fintech, edtech, healthtech, deeptech, logistics, and e-commerce. The firm allocates a portion of its resources to seed-stage funding, which allows it to support startups at their inception. This investment strategy is complemented by the firm's involvement in Flat6Labs, a startup accelerator that nurtures early-stage companies in the region.
The firm targets the mismatch between available capital and market opportunities in North Africa, focusing on knowledge and innovation-based technologies. Sawari Ventures emphasizes responsible investment practices, integrating environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations into its decision-making process. The firm seeks founders who demonstrate strong leadership qualities, a clear vision, and the ability to execute their business plans effectively.
Sawari Ventures has built a diverse portfolio of 19 companies, showcasing its commitment to various sectors. Notable portfolio companies include:
These companies reflect Sawari Ventures' focus on innovative solutions that address market needs in North Africa.
Ahmed El Alfi: Partner & Chairman, co-founder of Sawari Ventures, with extensive experience in venture capital and entrepreneurship.
Hany Al Sonbaty: Managing Partner, co-founder, and a key figure in the firm's strategic direction.
Wael Amin: Partner, involved in investment decisions and portfolio management.
Anta Ndiaye: Principal, focusing on sourcing and evaluating investment opportunities.
Basmat Al-Sabbah Fareed: Associate, supporting the investment team in due diligence and analysis.
Dalia El Mohamady: CFO, overseeing financial operations and fund management.
Farah Abd El-Gawad: Principal, specializing in investment strategy and portfolio development.
Fatima-Zahra Bennani: Principal, focusing on investment analysis and market research.
Jennifer Schoeberlein: Partner, ESG & Impact, integrating responsible investment practices into the firm's strategy.
Khaled El Tanany: Head of Compliance and AML Manager, ensuring regulatory adherence.
Nader Maged: Associate, assisting in investment evaluations and portfolio management.
Noran Heikal: General Accountant, managing financial records and reporting.
Omar Ghoneim: Senior Analyst, FP&A, focusing on financial planning and analysis.
To pitch to Sawari Ventures, founders should utilize the preferred channel of the firm's website or email support@sawariventures.com. A comprehensive pitch deck is essential, including details about the business model, market analysis, and financial projections. Founders should expect a response within a reasonable timeframe, and warm introductions can enhance the likelihood of engagement.
In April 2021, Sawari Ventures closed its North Africa Fund I at $71 million, marking a significant milestone for the firm. This fund focuses on early and growth-stage investments across North Africa, particularly in sectors such as fintech, edtech, and healthcare.
Notable portfolio exits include SWVL, which went public on NASDAQ via SPAC in 2022, and Instabug, a mobile app debugging and feedback software company that has gained traction in the B2B SaaS market.
As of 2023, Sawari Ventures continues to actively deploy capital from its North Africa Fund I, investing in promising startups across Egypt, Tunisia, and Morocco.
What are Sawari Ventures' investment criteria?
Sawari Ventures invests in early and growth-stage startups across sectors such as fintech, edtech, healthtech, deeptech, logistics, and e-commerce. The firm looks for innovative solutions that address market gaps in North Africa.
How can I apply or pitch to Sawari Ventures?
Founders can pitch their startups through the firm's website at sawariventures.com or by emailing support@sawariventures.com. A well-prepared pitch deck should include the business model, market analysis, and financial projections.
What makes Sawari Ventures different from other VCs?
Sawari Ventures combines international and domestic capital, focusing on knowledge and innovation-based technologies. The firm also invests in startup accelerators like Flat6Labs, enhancing its support for early-stage companies.
What is the geographic scope of Sawari Ventures?
The firm primarily invests in North Africa, specifically targeting Egypt, Tunisia, and Morocco, where it sees significant market opportunities.
What is the fund size and check size of Sawari Ventures?
Sawari Ventures manages a total fund size of $71 million, with investments typically ranging from seed to growth equity stages.
What kind of post-investment involvement does Sawari Ventures have?
The firm provides strategic guidance, access to a network of industry experts, and operational support to help portfolio companies scale effectively.
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