Maqsam has launched the region’s first AI-powered phone bot capable of handling customer service calls in Arabic and English, including various dialects. The bot provides seamless, 24/7 support, improving customer experience across the MENA region while reducing operational costs and assisting human agents.
SecurityPal, a Kathmandu-based startup, helps tech companies streamline security questionnaires using a combination of AI and human expertise. The company has grown rapidly, reaching $10 million in revenue and securing major clients like Airtable and Figma. SecurityPal aims to build a tech hub in Nepal while providing competitive salaries and opportunities.
UM6P and STATION F have launched the NextAfrica program to support startups focused on Greentech, Agritech, and Healthtech. This collaboration aims to bridge Europe and Africa, providing mentorship, funding, and resources to international startups looking to enter African markets. The program will foster innovation and address key regional challenges.
StartUp Bahrain and Brinc have partnered to offer world-class acceleration programs and global networking opportunities to startups in Bahrain and the MENA region. The partnership aims to strengthen the local startup ecosystem, helping businesses scale and access international markets, and positioning Bahrain as a key innovation hub.
SeamlessHR, a Nigerian HR tech startup, has raised $9 million in funding, bringing its total to $20 million. This investment, backed by the Gates Foundation and Helios Digital Ventures, will help the company expand across Africa, enhance workforce productivity, and provide financial security for employees through embedded finance tools.
Bahrain’s startup ecosystem has generated USD 1.2 billion from July 2021 to December 2023, with fintech leading the way. Key players like Tamkeen, Bahrain FinTech Bay, and Central Bank of Bahrain support this growth. Tech startups such as Calo and Unipal continue to attract investment, signaling strong growth for 2025.
Zain Innovation Campus has opened registration for the “Zain Al-Mubadara” programme, supporting Jordanian entrepreneurs and startups. The initiative offers funding, mentoring, and logistical support to help transform innovative ideas into viable businesses, fostering economic growth and job creation in the country.
SelectUSA Tech has launched its first-ever tech startup pitching competition in Egypt, aiming to promote US investment. The winning startup will be sponsored by the US Embassy to attend the SelectUSA Tech competition and National Harbor Summit in Maryland. The initiative focuses on supporting Egyptian startups’ growth in the US market.
Moroccan startups raised $70 million in 2024, ranking fifth in Africa for funding. Despite a decline compared to previous years, the country remains a key player in the African tech ecosystem. The government’s new plan to support innovation aims to foster growth, create jobs, and attract foreign investment.
Newlab has expanded into Saudi Arabia with a strategic partnership to foster critical-tech startups. The new Riyadh hub, set to open in 2025, will support commercialization, offering essential infrastructure and innovation programs. The first program, The Mining Innovation Studio, focuses on tech solutions for challenges in the mining sector.
