Stride Ventures Launches New Abu Dhabi Fund to Target GCC Startups with Venture Debt
The venture debt firm Stride Ventures has announced the successful first close of its new "Abu Dhabi Global Market Fund V," a major initiative designed to significantly enhance its presence and investment activities across the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC).
By the Numbers
$500 Million+: Stride Ventures' target for its Assets Under Management (AUM) in the GCC by 2026.
$110 Million: The value of the firm's current deal pipeline in the region.
$10M - $15M: The average deal size for its regional investments.
$1.2 Billion+: Total invested globally by Stride Ventures to date across more than 170 companies.
A Strategic Push into the GCC with Venture Debt
Through its new Abu Dhabi-based fund, Stride Ventures plans to provide crucial debt financing solutions to high-growth startups. The firm collaborates with leading regional banks to enhance access to venture loans, offering a vital alternative to equity financing that allows founders to scale their businesses with less dilution.
A Focus on Sharia-Compliant Financing
A key ambition for Stride Ventures is to become the largest provider of Sharia-compliant venture capital for growth-stage startups across the region. This focus on Islamic finance principles is tailored to meet the specific needs of the regional market and its founders.
Leadership on a Long-Term Vision
Ishpreet Singh Gandhi, Founder and Managing Partner of Stride Ventures, commented on the expansion, stating: "We aim to be a long-term partner, and through the Abu Dhabi Global Market fund, we are committed to providing the capital, expertise, and partnership that ambitious founders and innovators need to build businesses that define the future of the region."
Targeting High-Growth Sectors
Stride Ventures has already executed several significant deals in the region and holds a strong pipeline of future investments valued at $110 million. The firm is targeting startups in key sectors, including:
Fintech
HealthTech
Logistics
Climate Tech
Looking Ahead
The launch of this new fund by Stride Ventures marks an important maturation of the MENA investment landscape. By providing specialized venture debt and Sharia-compliant solutions, the firm is introducing more sophisticated financing options that are essential for the continued growth and success of the region's most promising startups.
Source: Jawlah