EdVentures, a pioneering Edtech corporate venture capital firm in the MENA region, has announced a strategic alliance with VMS, a prominent Venture Studio dedicated to nurturing entrepreneurs and startups in the Middle East. This collaboration marks a noteworthy advancement in the development of the Edtech industry in Saudi Arabia and Egypt, with a shared commitment to fostering innovation in a sector that holds significant potential for societal growth.
Since its inception in 2017, EdVentures, the investment arm of Egypt's Nahdet Misr Group, has been a driving force behind investments in innovative Edtech startups. Their unwavering dedication to education, culture, and groundbreaking learning solutions has consistently instigated positive transformation within the sector. On the other hand, VMS is a Venture Studio with a mission to empower entrepreneurs and startups in the MENA region. Leveraging its expertise, resources, and extensive network, VMS actively supports startups as they navigate the Saudi Arabian market, enabling them to surmount challenges and attain their business objectives. Through a commitment to innovation and a willingness to embrace risk, VMS plays a pivotal role in the growth and success of the Saudi entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The strategic partnership between EdVentures and VMS will substantially expand their capacity to support Edtech startups. EdVentures will offer startups access to its specialized incubation, acceleration, and investment programs, while VMS will utilize its network to provide crucial guidance, mentorship, and advisory services, enhancing the prospects of these startups. Demonstrating a commendable track record in strategic execution, VMS has already achieved 60% of its investment targets within a span of six months, underscoring its agility and forward-thinking approach. The company's commitment to fostering innovation in Saudi Arabia is evident through its participation in the "Aware Initiative to Achieve Vision 2030," aimed at shaping a prosperous future for the Kingdom. By partnering with industry leaders, VMS has firmly established itself as a pioneering investment firm that champions innovation and actively paves the way for the future. Since its inception in 2017, EdVentures has provided invaluable support to over 70 startups and entrepreneurs. The firm has invested in 14 companies operating in the fields of education technology and human capacity building in Egypt and the wider Arab region, leaving a significant imprint on the industry.
"This partnership presents an incredible opportunity for the growth of the Edtech industry in the Arab world,” stated Dalia Ibrahim, Founder and Chairperson of EdVentures. “We are thrilled to partner with VMS, a trusted collaborator that shares our vision of transforming education and empowering the next generation. Together, we will drive innovation, create job opportunities, and support the vibrant startup ecosystem in Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the entire region," she added.
Moataz Abuaneq, CEO of VMS, said, "We are excited to collaborate with EdVentures in this game-changing partnership. Together, we will unlock limitless possibilities for Edtech startups and entrepreneurs in the Middle East. By combining our strengths and expertise, we will build an ecosystem that fosters innovation, empowers talent, and creates a better future for education."
HolonIQ has acknowledged EdVentures' accomplishments by including nine companies from its portfolio among the top 50 startups in the field of educational technology in the Middle East and North Africa for 2022. These companies include "iSchool," "Akhdhar," "COLNN," "OTO," "Entreprenelle," "Career 180," "EYouth," "Sprints," and "Jeel." The alliance between EdVentures and VMS is poised to bring about substantial transformations in the education sector across Saudi Arabia, Egypt, and the wider Arab region. This partnership will keep pace with the revolutionary developments in the Edtech sector, including the integration of artificial intelligence, ultimately reshaping the landscape and future of education for upcoming generations.
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