TLDR:
– COTU Ventures secures $54 million to invest in early-stage startups in MENA region
– Focus on fintech and B2B software industries
COTU Ventures, a Dubai-based venture capital firm, recently announced securing $54 million for its maiden fund to support early-stage startups in the MENA region. The firm, led by founder and General Partner Amir Farha, has primarily been focusing on backing startups in the GCC, including Saudi Arabia, Egypt, Pakistan, and the UAE. COTU Ventures prides itself on providing support to founders from inception to post-product launch, with a keen interest in fintech and B2B software companies. The firm’s investment strategy involves identifying startups that can offer innovative solutions to regional issues through software, particularly in high-margin industries.
Farha, who previously invested in successful companies like Careem, left BECO Capital to launch COTU Ventures and concentrate on early-stage investments. The firm’s approach involves engaging in nuanced conversations with startups to build trust and establish connections with founders. This strategy also allows COTU Ventures to provide guidance on fundraising, startup development, and go-to-market plans, as well as introducing startups to relevant stakeholders and potential late-stage investors.
