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Rasmal Ventures Leads USD 12M Series A for Global eSIM Startup Roamless

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Rasmal Ventures Leads USD 12M Series A for Global eSIM Startup Roamless

  Doha — Qatar’s Rasmal Ventures has led a USD 12 million Series A round for Roamless, a US-headquartered global connectivity startup offering a universal eSIM for travelers. The round included participation from Shorooq Partners, Revo Capital, Finberg, and JIMCO, marking one of the region’s notable investments in travel-tech and telecom infrastructure this year. Roamless and Its Single Global eSIM Founded in 2023 by Emre Demirel, Ali Gazioglu, Asim Alp, Selim Aykut, Cagdas Yalti, and Cengiz Oztelcan, Roamless provides a borderless mobile connectivity platform built around a single global eSIM. Key characteristics of the product: Pay-as-you-go and trip-based plans Coverage in more than 200 countries Seamless switching between networks while traveling No need to change SIM cards Unlike many eSIM providers that resell third-party networks, Roamless operates its own cloud-based telecom infrastructure. This gives the company direct control over network behavior, the ability to manage connectivity across hundreds of operators, and more flexibility to deliver offerings beyond data-only plans. Why Rasmal Ventures Led the Investment Rasmal Ventures’ participation reflects Qatar’s growing interest in infrastructure technologies, digital mobility, and platforms that support global travel and communication. The global eSIM market is expanding rapidly, driven by traveler demand, increased smartphone adoption, and regulatory pushes toward embedded SIM technology. The investment positions Qatar within a fast-growing sector while supporting the broader national innovation strategy aligned with Qatar National Vision 2030. Product Expansion and New Features With the new funding, Roamless plans to accelerate several major developments: Expansion of network coverage The company aims to add more carrier partnerships and improve availability in underserved regions. Launch of Roamless Numbers This feature will allow users to obtain local numbers in more than 20 countries. Users will be able to make calls and send and receive SMS directly within the app, offering a complete communication experience while traveling. AI-driven optimization Roamless intends to incorporate artificial intelligence to improve network quality, reduce connectivity costs, and tailor partner offers based on user behavior. Scaling B2B Connectivity Solutions Roamless is also investing in APIs and enterprise tools that allow airlines, airports, online travel agencies, financial institutions, and superapps to integrate connectivity into their customer experiences. This creates opportunities for businesses to offer value-added services, enhance traveler satisfaction, and unlock new revenue streams through embedded global connectivity. Impact on Qatar and the Region The deal highlights Qatar’s growing role as a regional center for venture investment and digital infrastructure. It also aligns with the country’s ambitions to participate in global-scale technology innovations and diversify the digital economy. For Rasmal Ventures, the investment strengthens its position in high-growth technology sectors and supports the development of platforms reshaping the future of travel, telecommunications, and digital mobility.
A New Chapter in Canada–Qatar Business Relations Begins Over a Simple Coffee

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A New Chapter in Canada–Qatar Business Relations Begins Over a Simple Coffee

A New Chapter in Canada–Qatar Business Relations Begins Over a Simple Coffee By Tim Peters – CMO, Guideline.ai; Venture Partner, Rasmal Ventures   It’s remarkable how meaningful progress in international business often begins not in conference halls or formal government meetings, but in quiet, human moments. Recently in Doha, a group of Canadians—some residing in Qatar, others visiting from Canada—gathered for what was supposed to be a simple coffee. No agenda. No microphones. No protocol. Just people who cared about strengthening a relationship that is ripe with opportunity. My last visit to Doha was just over six months ago, when I attended the Qatar Economic Forum, one of the region’s most influential global gatherings. I remain deeply grateful to Qatar Media City and the Government of Qatar for the invitation. Even then, the momentum was unmistakable. Since that time, Qatar has continued to build on that energy—accelerating investment, innovation, diplomacy, and global connectivity at a pace few countries can match. This latest coffee meeting happened at a time when Doha was buzzing with international activity. I had arrived just as the Formula 1 Qatar Grand Prix was underway, and the city felt like a crossroads of the world—investors, technologists, policymakers, and visitors converging from every direction. It underscored what has been clear for years: Qatar is not preparing to join the global stage. Qatar is already on it. Meanwhile, Canada had just completed a significant moment of its own. The Honourable Evan Solomon, Canada’s Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, had concluded a major visit to the Gulf days earlier. His mission strengthened AI and digital partnerships with both Qatar and the UAE, and created real momentum for bilateral cooperation. His meetings with Qatar’s Minister of Communications and Information Technology, with the Qatar Investment Authority, and with leading Qatari institutions signaled that Canada sees Qatar not only as a regional partner but as a strategic collaborator in shaping the global future of responsible AI. With that backdrop, the timing of our coffee meeting could not have been more meaningful. Around the table were individuals whose work spans investment, innovation, government relations, entrepreneurship, and community building: Imad Kaddoura, Dr. Mehdi Khabazian, Katia Abboud, and Moamen Saber. What united everyone was the belief that something practical and overdue should exist: a modern Canadian–Qatar Business Council capable of supporting real commercial outcomes. This isn’t about creating a ceremonial body or another networking group. It’s about building a platform that helps Canadian companies navigate Qatar’s rapidly evolving business landscape—and helps Qatari investors, innovators, and institutions find meaningful partners in Canada. And the truth is, the moment for this collaboration has never been stronger. Qatar is advancing at remarkable speed, positioning itself as a global hub for AI, digital infrastructure, advanced research, sports, aviation, and sovereign investment. The country’s confidence on the world stage is matched by major domestic investments in innovation, education, and talent. A major part of that momentum comes from the growth of Qatar’s venture ecosystem. As a Venture Partner at Rasmal Ventures, I’ve seen firsthand how quickly the country is building the foundations of a globally competitive innovation economy. Rasmal is notable not only as Qatar’s first domestic private venture capital fund, but also as the first private VC fund in the country to launch with support from the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA). That backing reflects Qatar’s belief in nurturing homegrown innovation and attracting world-class companies to consider Doha as a home base for GCC and wider Middle East expansion. Rasmal is actively looking at Canadian AI, fintech, agri-tech, and media-technology companies that see the Gulf as a growth market. And increasingly, those companies are recognizing Qatar’s advantages: world-class infrastructure, policy stability, access to capital, and a strategically central location for regional scaling. Canada, for its part, is renewing its diplomatic and commercial presence in the region. The arrival of Canada’s new Ambassador to Qatar, H.E. Karim Morcos, adds even more momentum. His deep experience across the Middle East, the UN system, and global development brings a level of insight and energy that is already being felt. He is complemented by the exceptional work of Canada’s Trade Commissioner Service in Doha—particularly Sonja Panday and Karthik Nathan—whose practical, business-focused engagement has been instrumental in advancing bilateral opportunities. From a corporate perspective, Guideline.ai sees Qatar as a natural partner in the future of AI-driven media intelligence, investment insight, and data transparency. Our regional lead in the Gulf, Maged Mostafa, is deeply embedded across the GCC—working directly with ministries, regulators, agencies, and major brands navigating digital transformation. Meanwhile, Joseph Berger, based in New York, oversees our relationships with sovereign wealth funds, global hedge funds, family offices, and institutional investors—many of whom increasingly view the Gulf, and Qatar in particular, as central to their global investment strategies. Together, their work connects commercial, government, and capital-markets perspectives, and we hope to contribute meaningfully to the council’s early efforts—not as the center of attention, but as a committed and constructive partner. This alignment—Qatar’s strategic ambition, Canada’s renewed engagement, the rise of institutions like Rasmal, and Minister Solomon’s successful Gulf mission—has created the ideal conditions for a reimagined Canadian–Qatar Business Council to take shape. If structured thoughtfully, the council can become: a gateway for Canadian companies entering the Gulf, a bridge connecting Qatari investors with Canadian innovation, a platform for trade missions and delegations, and a hub supporting growth around major events like Web Summit Qatar. It can also serve as a trusted space where business leaders and innovators on both sides collaborate on long-term, high-impact initiatives. When we stood up from that coffee meeting in Doha, there was a shared sense that something important had begun. Not because of formality, but because of sincerity. Not because of ceremony, but because the moment is right. Canada and Qatar have always respected each other. But now—with new leadership, deeper diplomatic engagement, a fast-growing venture ecosystem, shared interests in AI and innovation, and genuine momentum from both sides—the relationship is poised to grow in strategic, lasting ways. A new chapter is not only possible. It is already taking shape. And sometimes, it starts with a coffee.
Rasmal Ventures Announces Investment in NEXX at 10th Belt & Road Summit 2025

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Rasmal Ventures Announces Investment in NEXX at 10th Belt & Road Summit 2025

Rasmal Ventures Announces Investment in NEXX at 10th Belt & Road Summit 2025 Doha, Qatar  – [11 September 2025] – Rasmal Ventures, a Qatar-based leading venture capital fund with backing from the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA), proudly announced its investment in NEXX, a a dual-headquartered Hong Kong and Qatar-based AI-driven logistics technology company, during the 10th Belt & Road Summit held in Hong Kong from the 10 – 11 September. The investment marks a strategic milestone for Rasmal Ventures, the first Qatar-headquartered VC fund, and reflects its mission to bring transformative global innovation into Qatar. As Rasmal Venture’s first commitment to a Hong Kong tech startup, the partnership highlights Qatar’s emergence as a hub for cutting-edge technologies and high-growth ventures. It also aligns with Rasmal Venture’s broader ambition to position Qatar as a platform for meaningful collaboration between Asia and the Middle East; anchoring innovation within the country while connecting it to global opportunities. Since its establishment in 2023 under the Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), Rasmal Ventures has rapidly become a key pillar of Qatar’s innovation economy. With the launch of its Rasmal Innovation Fund I and strategic backing from QIA’s $1B Fund of Funds, Rasmal Ventures has made notable strides in supporting high-growth technology ventures across borders. Its prestigious local partnerships with Sidra Medicine and Qatar Development Bank (QDB) underscore its deep-rooted commitment to empowering Qatar’s tech ecosystem, reflecting the nation’s broader ambition to emerge as a hub for global innovation and collaboration. The signing ceremony was attended by Mrs. Soumaya Ben Beya Dridje, Partner at Rasmal Ventures and Mr. Hui Ka Oscar, CEO of NEXX Group; and the event was honored by the presence of Her Excellency Ms. Sheikha Noora Khalifa Al-Thani, Consul General of the State of Qatar to Hong Kong as well as Mr. Nicholas Ho, Commissioner of the Belt and Road Office of the Hong Kong SAR Government. Mrs. Soumaya Ben Beya Dridje, Partner at Rasmal Ventures, stated: " We believe the cross-regional connection between China’s leading tech entrepreneurs and the GCC can unlock tremendous growth and value on both sides, and we are positioned to enable the building of this bridge. NEXX stood out as an impressive example that embodies this vision." Mr. Hui Ka Oscar, CEO of NEXX Group, added: "These developments demonstrate our commitment to building a world-class organization that can effectively bridge Chinese technological innovation with Middle Eastern market opportunities." As part of its regional growth, NEXX has appointed Mr. Ibrahim Al-Derbasti, Executive Vice President of Offshore & Marine at Milaha, as Co-founder of NEXX Middle East—reinforcing its vision of combining global experience with deep local insight.   -END-   About Rasmal: Rasmal Ventures is Qatar’s first independent venture capital fund, with a regional presence across the MENA region. The firm invests in high-potential technology startups and supports top entrepreneurs, including international companies expanding into the MENA market. Focused primarily on Series A and Series B stage startups, Rasmal Ventures also selectively invests in Pre-Series A and later-stage ventures. While sector-agnostic, the firm has expertise in healthtech, fintech, B2B SaaS, supply chain logistics, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Rasmal Ventures thrives on embracing the fast pace of technological evolution and is committed to learning and exploring new sectors alongside visionary entrepreneurs. For more information, visit our website at https://www.rasmalventures.com/en   About NEXX: NEXX is an AI-driven logistics company bridging China and the MENA region. Through its Agentic AI platform and logistics technology, NEXX enhances supply chain performance, optimizes warehouse operations across the MENA market, and enables intelligent, cross-border logistics coordination. For more information, visit www.nexx-global.com
the Turcorn100 program supported by the Ministry of Industry and Technology.

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the Turcorn100 program supported by the Ministry of Industry and Technology.

TeamSec, a next-generation fintech and regtech company that provides AI-powered solutions in the fields of capital optimization and working capital liquidity, has been selected for the T.C. Sanayi ve Teknoloji Bakanlığı | Republic Of Türkiye Ministry of Industry and Technology -powered Turcorn100 program. This achievement once again highlights your position as the first global fintech to transform the securitization market. As TeamSec, we are proud to have been selected for the Turcorn 100 program. In our growth journey, we will continue to be the architect of the financial world of the future. ** TeamSec, a next-generation fintech and regtech company offering AI-powered solutions in capital optimization and working capital liquidity, has been selected for the Turcorn100 program supported by the Ministry of Industry and Technology. This achievement further underscores our position as the world's first fintech aiming to transform the securitization market. At TeamSec, we are proud to be chosen for the Turcorn 100 program. We will continue, on our growth journey, to shape the future of finance.
Asset securitisation in the Gulf takes its first baby steps

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Asset securitisation in the Gulf takes its first baby steps

Asset securitisation, a $14 trillion business in the United States, seems to be finally gaining ground in the Gulf.     Last week the UAE lender Deem Finance sealed a $400 million asset securitisation deal with JP Morgan. Emirates NBD of Dubai and Rasmal Ventures in Qatar have also co-invested $7.6 million in the Turkish startup TeamSec, whose technology makes it potentially less costly and quicker for companies to securitise their assets. Securitising assets frees up capital for so-called originators, usually banks and other financial services companies, enabling them to expand more rapidly and support the region’s economic diversification efforts, while also offering regional institutional and wealthy investors another asset to trade. However securitisation is still “in its infancy” in the Gulf, said Chris Taylor, CEO of Deem Finance, with just “a handful” of deals completed so far. Any company with regular receivables, such as loans, leases or payments owed, can securitise their assets. To do so the company establishes a special purpose vehicle (SPV), which legally takes ownership of the assets. The company then sells securities, often in the form of notes or bonds, which represent a claim on the cash flows generated by the SPV assets. Immediate payment As a result, the company receives an immediate payment, typically at a discount to the receivables’ face value. Investors, in turn, earn returns as the underlying receivables are paid, with the SPV distributing these payments to them. UAE and Saudi market regulators see asset securitisation as an important step forward, according to Taylor. Their governments’ ambitions to expand their economies outstrips the ability of local banks to absorb such growth into their capital and balance sheets, he said. In mid-2023, the UAE Securities and Commodities Authority issued asset securitisation regulations. These clarified that securitisation was the “true sale” of the securitised assets, not a financing transaction, according to a note by the law firm Baker McKenzie in Dubai. Another important specification is that securitised assets are separate from the originator and so would be unaffected were the originator to go bankrupt or insolvent. These rules give prospective buyers much greater confidence to invest, said Mazen Boustany, a partner at Baker McKenzie. UAE capital markets are well placed for a stellar year PIF to anchor Goldman Sach’s new GCC-focused funds  Saudi Arabia embraces mortgage-backed securities However, Saudi Arabia still lacks regulations on securitisation, the law firm White & Case, which has an office in the Dubai International Finance Centre, has written in a note, although the Riyadh-based buy-now-pay-later company Tamara raised $400 million in debt last year that used some of the company’s receivables as collateral. The growing presence of international hedge funds in the Abu Dhabi and Dubai financial free zones augurs well for asset securitisation, said Taylor. “Those guys have got firepower and they’re going to want to deploy into assets, so it’s unimaginable to me that this won’t now take off,” he said. The assets that Deem Finance sold to JP Morgan consisted of approximately two thirds consumer debt – credit cards and loans – and one third loans to small and medium-sized businesses. JP Morgan may re-sell the securitised assets.  ​​“What we’re keen to do is to bring some of this debt into the local market,” Taylor said.   The securitisation does not change the terms and conditions for the original borrowers, with Deem managing its customers as before. Importantly, Deem retains ownership of a portion of each receivable.  “We’re not getting rid of the risk,” Taylor said.
Sidra Medicine, Rasmal Ventures team-up to drive digital health innovation in Qatar

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Sidra Medicine, Rasmal Ventures team-up to drive digital health innovation in Qatar

Sidra Medicine and Rasmal Ventures Partner to Drive Digital Health Innovation in Qatar Advancing Healthcare Through E-health Innovation and Startup Integration 25 February 2025, Doha, Qatar - Sidra Medicine, a member of Qatar Foundation, has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Rasmal Ventures, Qatar’s first venture capital firm. The strategic partnership, announced at the Web Summit Qatar 2025, marks a significant step in the hospital’s role in supporting and advancing digital health innovation in Qatar and beyond. Rasmal Ventures, with its extensive portfolio of global technology companies, will introduce Sidra Medicine to high-potential e-health startups and provide strategic support to incorporate innovative solutions into Sidra Medicine’s operations. In return, Sidra Medicine will contribute its clinical and research expertise to evaluate and refine the startups’ healthcare technologies, ensuring they are effective, scalable, and patient-focused. Moreover, the two organizations will develop entrepreneurship programs that encourage the development and growth of a Health-Tech sector for Qatar. Prof. Khalid Fakhro, Chief Research Officer at Sidra Medicine said: “This partnership highlights our commitment to establishing Sidra Medicine as a leading healthcare innovation hub in Qatar, in alignment with the Qatar National Vision 2030. By collaborating with Rasmal Ventures, we are building upon our current strengths in clinical care, genomics and cell and gene therapy, and taking a proactive approach to adopting innovative technologies and transforming Sidra Medicine into a living lab for entrepreneurial ventures from across Qatar and the world.” The MOU establishes a collaborative framework between the two entities to facilitate the exchange of expertise and best practices in e-health innovations. Through this partnership, Sidra Medicine and Rasmal Ventures aim to drive advancements in innovation, focusing on digital healthcare solutions such as patient-centric artificial intelligence (AI) technologies, telemedicine platforms, and wearable devices. Alexander Wiedmer, Co-Managing Partner at Rasmal Ventures said: “At Rasmal Ventures, we believe that innovation is key to transforming healthcare. Our partnership with Sidra Medicine represents a unique opportunity to bring the latest digital health technologies to the forefront, empowering Qatar’s healthcare system to deliver smarter, more efficient, and patient-centered care.” As part of the agreement, the two entities will host joint workshops, pilot studies, and discussions to validate the efficacy of emerging technologies and foster an open environment for innovation. This partnership positions Sidra Medicine as a driving force in healthcare innovation, creating valuable opportunities for biotech and healthtech leaders. It also underscores Sidra Medicine’s role as a premier destination for medical education and research, attracting innovators and nurturing the development of next-generation healthcare solutions. -Ends-   About Sidra Medicine Innovating Care. Transforming Lives From the heart of Qatar, Sidra Medicine, is a private, not-for-profit academic healthcare and research institution for women, children, and young people. Established by the Qatar Foundation for Education, Science, and Community Development, Sidra Medicine is committed to delivering exceptional patient and family-focused care, conducting innovative biomedical and clinical research, and providing a personalized journey of care and cure and precision medicine specifically for rare and genetic diseases. To access our specialized healthcare or international patient services, including pediatric care, women's health, and rare disease treatment or to book a consultation at one of our private clinics, please call +974 40033333 or visit our website at http://www.sidra.org. For more information, follow us on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn   About Rasmal Ventures Rasmal Ventures is Qatar’s first independent venture capital fund, with a regional presence across the MENA region. The firm invests in high-potential technology startups and supports top entrepreneurs, including international companies expanding into the MENA market. Focused primarily on Series A and Series B stage startups, Rasmal Ventures also selectively invests in Pre-Series A and later-stage ventures. While sector-agnostic, the firm has particular expertise in healthtech, fintech, B2B SaaS, supply chain logistics, and Artificial Intelligence (AI). Rasmal Ventures thrives on embracing the fast pace of technological evolution and is committed to learning and exploring new sectors alongside visionary entrepreneurs. For more information, visit our website at https://www.rasmalventures.com/en
QDB, Rasmal Ventures sign agreement to promote innovation, entrepreneurship in Qatar

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QDB, Rasmal Ventures sign agreement to promote innovation, entrepreneurship in Qatar

Qatar Development Bank (QDB) has signed a co-operation agreement with Rasmal Ventures on the sidelines of Web Summit Qatar 2025 to bolster Qatar’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by supporting innovation, attracting global talent, and fostering local and regional growth opportunities for startups. Through the collaboration, both parties seek to strengthen Qatar’s position as a global entrepreneurship hub, which will contribute to attracting top talent and empowering startups to access new regional and global markets. The partnership focuses on supporting entrepreneurs and fostering innovation in Qatar by leveraging QDB’s Talent Community Programme with Rasmal Ventures joining as an official partner of the programme, which was designed to nurture a dynamic and diverse entrepreneurial ecosystem. The partnership will enhance Qatar’s ability to attract global talent and innovators, offering a supportive environment for the growth of high-growth companies. The two organisations will also collaborate to exchange information on promising investment opportunities and foster cooperation in joint investment initiatives to enable startups to access the necessary resources and networks for their global expansion, particularly in the Middle East and North Africa region. The two parties will also work to strengthen cooperation within the framework of the Startup Qatar investment initiative by exploring joint investment opportunities and boosting the contribution of Rasmal Ventures to the programme, as well as expanding the scope of beneficiaries. QDB VP Enterprise Development Khalid Abdulla al-Mana said the partnership reflects the bank’s ongoing commitment to developing an advanced investment landscape in line with the highest global standards to empower startups and contribute to their sustainable growth. “Through our collaboration with Rasmal Ventures, we aim to enhance investment flows and help entrepreneurs build extensive networks, enabling them to connect with regional and global investors.” Dr Shaikha al-Jabir and Alexander Wiedmer, co-managing partners at Rasmal Ventures, emphasised that the work QDB and Startup Qatar are doing is immensely important for the economy and the innovation ecosystem. They added: “It is an enabler for VC funds as we are. We are delighted to partner with QDB to support the startups in the programme as they seek to grow.” QDB’s latest partnership reflects its vision to foster an environment that supports the growth of entrepreneurial ventures, contributing to the development of the business ecosystem and boosting the competitiveness of startups both regionally and internationally. It also equips startups with the necessary tools to succeed, reinforcing Qatar’s position as a regional hub for innovation and investment in the region. This aligns with Qatar National Vision 2030, which aims to achieve economic diversification by empowering entrepreneurs and startups to thrive and grow.
Rasmal Ventures Joins Forces with QIA to Supercharge MENA’s Startup Revolution

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Rasmal Ventures Joins Forces with QIA to Supercharge MENA’s Startup Revolution

Doha, February 5, 2025 – We at Rasmal Ventures, Qatar’s first independent VC firm, are proud to announce that we have secured strategic funding from the Qatar Investment Authority (QIA) as part of its $1 billion Fund of Funds program. This investment strengthens our ambition to drive technological innovation and economic diversification across the MENA region. A Transformational Milestone in MENA’s Venture Capital Scene Our flagship Rasmal Innovation Fund I LLC, launched in June 2024, is at the forefront of investing in high-growth startups across fintech, B2B SaaS, HealthTech, supply chain logistics, and artificial intelligence (AI). As the first fund to join QIA’s $1 billion program, we have already secured commitments from institutional investors, corporates, family offices, and high-net-worth individuals, with the goal of reaching $100 million in total investment commitments. “This funding marks a pivotal moment for Qatar’s venture capital ecosystem,” said Alexander Wiedmer, Co-Managing Partner at Rasmal Ventures. “As the first private VC fund based in Doha, we are leveraging our deep-rooted partnerships with leading Qatari institutions to nurture disruptive startups that can redefine industries. We are still in the early stages of capital deployment, but our first investments in proprietary technology startups are already demonstrating high potential.” Backing the Next Generation of Tech Titans At Rasmal Ventures, we are proud to have a seasoned team of VC experts with a track record of over 100 venture capital deals and successful exits. Our fund is designed to support pre-Series A, Series A, and Series B companies, ensuring that the most promising startups get the funding and strategic guidance needed to scale globally. Beyond financial investment, we are deeply committed to hands-on engagement with our portfolio companies, providing operational expertise, market access, and business development support to help them scale rapidly. Strategic Alignment with Qatar’s Vision for Innovation The launch of Rasmal Innovation Fund I LLC aligns seamlessly with Qatar’s Third National Development Strategy (NDS3), which emphasizes economic diversification and the creation of a robust technology ecosystem. Our Fund aims to foster an innovation-driven environment where entrepreneurs can access capital, mentorship, and international networks. QIA’s Fund of Funds: A Catalyst for Regional Growth The QIA Fund of Funds program, launched in February 2024, is a game-changer for the startup and venture capital ecosystem in Qatar and beyond. With a dual mandate to generate strong financial returns while accelerating regional entrepreneurship, the program prioritizes technology and healthcare investments. By securing QIA’s backing, we are further cementing our position as a leading player in MENA’s venture capital scene, poised to scale innovative startups that can redefine industries on a global scale. Looking Ahead: A New Era for MENA’s Startup Ecosystem With a clear investment thesis focused on high-potential technology sectors, we are set to play a critical role in shaping the future of entrepreneurship in Qatar and the MENA region. As we continue to raise additional commitments, we remain steadfast in our mission to identify, support, and scale the next generation of transformative startups. With a selective investment approach and deep industry expertise, we are not just deploying capital—we are building the foundation for a thriving innovation ecosystem in MENA.
Deniz Ventures, Rasmal Invest $7.6M in TeamSec

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Deniz Ventures, Rasmal Invest $7.6M in TeamSec

İSTANBUL, Türkiye, January 30, 2025 (EZ Newswire) -- Deniz Ventures, the venture capital fund of DenizBank, established under the Emirates NBD Innovation Fund; the Corporate Venture Capital arm of Emirates NBD Group—and Rasmal Ventures, a leading Doha-based venture capital firm, have jointly invested in TeamSec, the world’s first AI-powered securitization platform, transforming the structured finance industry through its innovative Securitization-as-a-Service platform. With a total investment raise of $7.6 million, TeamSec aims to accelerate its growth operations, focusing on rapid expansion in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. TeamSec also aims to diversify its product and service portfolio and enhance current service offerings. Focused on accelerating the financial sector's digital transformation, TeamSec is driving the creation of a more efficient and transparent financial ecosystem by digitizing securitization processes. TeamSec seeks to create critical value for investors and financial institutions through AI and data analytics-based solutions. Commenting on the investment, Ahmed Al Qassim, Group Head of Wholesale Banking at Emirates NBD, said: "We recognize the immense potential securitization holds in supporting regional growth. Our recent strategic investment in TeamSec, a fintech innovator specializing in Securitization-as-a-Service, underscores our commitment to shaping this market and enabling its growth. We are the first investor in TeamSec, supporting the founder and team in their growth journey at an early stage." NEOHUB CEO Gürhan Çam highlighted that TeamSec’s technological infrastructure will lay the groundwork for stronger collaborations among financial institutions in the future and contribute significantly to the economic ecosystem. He stated: "Digital transformation in the fintech sector is no longer a luxury but a necessity. As DenizBank and NEOHUB, we aim to address the technological gaps in the field of securitization by collaborating with startups through our investment in TeamSec. We recognize that TeamSec’s innovations in securitization have the potential to set new industry standards." Emphasizing the collaborative approach, Rasmal Ventures’ Co-Managing Partner, Alexander Wiedmer, noted: "TeamSec’s bold vision to revolutionize the securitization industry across the Middle East and beyond resonates strongly with us. Their mission-driven, execution-focused team exemplifies the ambition and innovation we are excited to support. Our investment, alongside Deniz Ventures, reflects our commitment to advancing fintech solutions that redefine traditional financial processes. By backing teams like TeamSec, with deep expertise in their field, we aim to accelerate digital transformation and fortify the regional financial ecosystem." Emphasizing the role Emirates NBD’s Corporate Venture Capital arm played in driving this investment, Neeraj Makin, Group Head of Strategy, Analytics, and Venture Capital at Emirates NBD, said: “Emirates NBD’s Innovation Fund drives strategic investments in cutting-edge fintech startups like TeamSec, enabling us to deliver tailored solutions that align with our vision of being the most innovative bank for our customers. As the industry evolves, the fund ensures we stay ahead of disruptive trends while enhancing the digital experience for our clients.”  Esad Erkam Köroğlu, founder and CEO of TeamSec, highlighted that this strategic investment from Deniz Ventures combined with the VC mindset and experience of the Rasmal Ventures’ team, is a key enabler in achieving the company’s vision: "The investment we received from ENBD and Rasmal Ventures demonstrates the trust placed in TeamSec’s vision and technological prowess by these renowned institutions. At the same time, this investment round supports our mission to revolutionize the securitization market, positioning TeamSec as a leader in the fintech sector and the securitization market, particularly in the MENA region. With this investment, we endeavor to strengthen our position as a global game-changer in securitization." Emirates NBD and Deniz Ventures remain committed to investing in fintech and technology-driven startups, driving innovation and digital transformation in the financial sector. Building on prior investments such as Erguvan in 2023 and NewBridge Fintech Solutions, their support for high-growth startups like TeamSec highlights their dedication to shaping a sustainable, tech-enabled future in finance.  About Emirates NBD Emirates NBD (DFM: Emirates NBD) is a leading banking group in the MENAT (Middle East, North Africa and Türkiye) region with a presence in 13 countries, serving over 9 million active customers. As of 30th September 2024, total assets were AED 956 billion (equivalent to approx. $260 billion). The Group has operations in the UAE, Egypt, India, Türkiye, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, Singapore, the United Kingdom, Austria, Germany, Russia and Bahrain and representative offices in China and Indonesia with a total of 859 branches and 4,512 ATMs / SDMs. Emirates NBD is the leading financial services brand in the UAE with a brand value of $3.89 billion. Emirates NBD Group serves its customers (individuals, businesses, governments, and institutions) and helps them realise their financial objectives through a range of banking products and services including retail banking, corporate and institutional banking, Islamic banking, investment banking, private banking, asset management, global markets and treasury, and brokerage operations. The Group is a key participant in the global digital banking industry with 97% of all financial transactions and requests conducted outside of its branches. The Group also operates Liv, the lifestyle digital bank by Emirates NBD, with close to half a million users, it continues to be the fastest-growing bank in the region. Emirates NBD contributes to the construction of a sustainable future as an active participant and supporter of the UAE’s main development and sustainability initiatives, including financial wellness and the inclusion of people of determination. Emirates NBD is committed to supporting the UAE’s Year of Sustainability as Principal Banking Partner of COP28 and an early supporter to the Dubai Can sustainability initiative, a city-wide initiative aimed to reduce use of single-use plastic bottled water. Visit https://www.emiratesnbd.com for more information. About Rasmal Ventures Rasmal Ventures is Qatar’s first independent venture capital firm, with a strong presence and network across the MENA innovation ecosystem. Headquartered in Doha with an office in Saudi Arabia, Rasmal Ventures focuses on technology startups at the pre-Series A, Series A, and Series B stages across the MENA region and beyond. The firm has a highly selective investment strategy, homing in on proprietary opportunities that drive innovation and growth in the market. Led by an experienced founding team with a strong track record of successful exits in Europe and the Middle East, Rasmal Ventures combines regional expertise with a global perspective. To learn more, visit https://www.rasmalventures.com. About Deniz Ventures Deniz Ventures, the venture capital arm of DenizBank, operates under the umbrella of the Emirates NBD Innovation Fund and is managed by NEOHUB, DenizBank’s innovation, entrepreneurship and digital arm. Since its establishment, Deniz Ventures has successfully demonstrated its investment acumen, starting with its inaugural investment in Midas, which culminated in a remarkable exit of $6 million. In 2023, Deniz Ventures further expanded its portfolio by investing $733,000 in Erguvan, a promising sustain tech startup, reflecting its commitment to sustainability and forward-looking industries. As a key player in the innovation ecosystem, Deniz Ventures continues to support transformative startups that shape the future. For more information, visit https://www.denizventures.com.   About TeamSec TeamSec is the world’s first AI-powered securitization platform, offering end-to-end securitization services to both financial and non-financial institutions, providing capital optimization and working capital solutions. Its services include credit securitization for financial institutions, invoice receivable securitization for corporates, and trade finance for international trade companies. To learn more, visit https://teamsecfin.com.
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