Arab Fund Investment Drives SME Growth with Shorooq's Nahda Fund II

The Arab Fund for Economic and Social Development, through its Badir Fund, is investing in Shorooq’s Nahda Fund II to bridge the financing gap for SMEs across the Arab world. This strategic partnership aims to provide technology companies in the region with better access to credit, thereby fostering economic growth and innovation. Badir Fund, a special account managed by the Arab Fund, focuses on empowering small businesses with the necessary financing and technical assistance to spur private sector-led growth. Shorooq, a leading investment manager in the MENA region and a pioneer in debt financing solutions for startups, manages Nahda Fund II. The collaboration highlights a dedication to offering SMEs flexible credit solutions, especially as traditional banks often pose restrictive lending criteria. Key figures in the collaboration include Nathan Kwon of Shorooq, who emphasizes the partnership's potential for empowering SMEs, and Dr. Essam AlQuorashy of Badir Fund, who sees this as a chance to promote growth and inclusion within underserved sectors. The investment underscores a commitment to economic development, with Shorooq’s current portfolio companies like Abhi and The Box exemplifying how structured financing can propel business operations.