Iraq's First VC Studio Nawat Launched by Netaj to Build High-Potential Startups
The Iraq-based innovation platform Netaj has officially launched Nawat, the country's first-ever Venture Capital (VC) studio, in a landmark move to build and back high-potential Iraqi startups from their earliest stages.
A New Model for Venture Building in Iraq
Nawat introduces a hands-on, co-building venture studio model to the Iraqi ecosystem, distinguishing itself from traditional accelerators and VC funds. The studio will work intensively with founders over a 6-month program, providing deep operational support in areas like product development, branding, and market access to guide startups from idea validation to achieving product-market fit and investment readiness.
A Multi-Track Program for All Stages
The Nawat program is designed to support startups at various stages of their journey and is open to an initial cohort of 40 ventures across three distinct tracks:
Ideation Stage: For founders with promising early-stage ideas.
MVP/Prototype Stage: For startups that have a minimum viable product and are ready for testing and refinement.
Early-Established Stage: For existing startups looking to scale and secure further investment.
Hybrid Investment: Combining Capital and In-Kind Support
Nawat will employ a flexible hybrid investment model to empower its portfolio companies. This includes:
In-Kind Investment: Providing services such as product development, branding, and access to digital tools, valued between $10,000 and $25,000.
Direct Financial Investment: Offering capital ranging from $25,000 to $250,000 through convertible notes or direct equity.
From its first cohort, Netaj aims to make direct investments in 5 to 10 of the most promising startups.
The Vision of Netaj
Netaj's vision with Nawat is to fundamentally transform Iraq's startup landscape. By providing local infrastructure, founder-first tools, and both operational and financial capital, the platform aims to build a new generation of scalable, investor-ready Iraqi businesses that are capable of expanding across the MENA region and beyond.
A Milestone for the Iraqi Startup Ecosystem
The launch of Iraq's first VC studio is a significant milestone that signals the growing maturity of its startup scene. The hands-on, co-builder model is particularly well-suited to emerging ecosystems like Iraq's, as it addresses critical challenges beyond just funding, such as operational expertise and access to product development talent.
Looking Ahead
The Nawat program represents a powerful new engine for innovation in Iraq. By providing intensive, tailored support, Netaj is not just investing in companies; it is actively building them. The success of its first cohort will be closely watched as a potential catalyst for a new wave of resilient and scalable startups emerging from Iraq.
Source: Wamda