Egypt’s technology startup ecosystem is entering a more mature phase, supported by stronger founder ambition and deeper institutional partnerships. A central pillar of this progress has been a three-year collaboration between the Information Technology Industry Development Agency (ITIDA) and global venture capital firm 500 Global, aimed at building a high-performance, globally connected startup environment.
The partnership has focused on supporting local and international IT companies, expanding digital services, boosting offshoring exports, and positioning startups as a core engine of sustainable innovation. One of its flagship initiatives, the Bootcamp for Accelerator Managers (BAM), transferred 500 Global’s accelerator expertise to Egypt, benefiting more than 125 accelerator managers across 55 accelerators nationwide. Independent assessments show marked improvements in leadership capabilities, strategic planning, and program execution, with tangible operational and economic impact.
Over the three-year period, the collaboration supported 197 startups and more than 380 founders through Seed Bootcamp and Scale Up programs. Participating startups attracted $6 million in direct investment during the programs, raised more than $54 million in follow-on funding, created over 1,300 jobs, and achieved several successful exits. Companies operating in AI, fintech, and digital services—including Rahet Bally, ILLA, Dayra, and Khazenly—expanded regionally and internationally.
The partnership will continue to prioritize deep-tech sectors, particularly artificial intelligence, while enhancing investment readiness and international market access. ITIDA’s Creativa Innovation Hubs remain a key platform for decentralized entrepreneurship, enabling founders to address local challenges while competing globally.
This collaboration highlights how focused government backing combined with global venture expertise can build a scalable, sustainable, and high-impact startup ecosystem in Egypt.
