Nuwa Capital: 10 Key Things You Must Know

Overview

Nuwa Capital is a contemporary venture capital firm established in 2020, headquartered in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, with additional operations in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia, and Cairo, Egypt. Founded by seasoned investors Khaled Talhouni, Sarah Abu Risheh, and Stephanie Nour Prince, Nuwa Capital aims to redefine the relationship between founders and capital, focusing on investments across diverse sectors including consumer products, services, fintech, and healthcare. Known for its strategic positioning in the rapidly evolving Middle East and North Africa (MENA) economic landscape, Nuwa Capital has garnered attention for its significant $100 million fund aimed at supporting tech-driven startups, thus becoming a catalyst for innovation and economic diversification. Ahead, we uncover intriguing insights about this influential venture capital firm.

1. Foundation and Leadership

Nuwa Capital was founded in February 2020 amidst the backdrop of a global shift toward digital transformation. Khaled Talhouni, the managing partner, previously served at Wamda Capital and has spearheaded over 150 transactions in early-stage venture investments, including notable successes like Careem and Mumzworld. The firm is co-led by Sarah Abu Risheh and Stephanie Nour Prince, each contributing extensive experience in venture capital and startup ecosystems. This leadership team brings a robust strategic vision, focusing on fostering sustainable growth for innovative startups.

2. Strategic Location in Dubai and Beyond

Nuwa Capital's headquarters in Dubai situate it at the heart of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) region's vibrant economic activity. This strategic location offers access to emerging opportunities within the MENA region, supported by Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)'s advanced financial ecosystem. The firm's presence in Riyadh and Cairo further extends its reach and influence across a region increasingly recognized for its burgeoning tech sector and startup potential.

3. Investment Philosophy and Thesis

Nuwa Capital operates on a unique investment thesis that emphasizes the critical role of founders in driving transformation across industries. The firm is committed to supporting businesses in the early stages, including pre-seed to Series A, with a particular interest in sectors like fintech, mobility, logistics, and healthcare. By focusing on high-impact sectors that present significant opportunities for innovation and growth, Nuwa aims to fuel the digital economy's next wave of startups across MENA.

4. Portfolio Highlights

Nuwa Capital's portfolio showcases a diverse array of companies that reflect its strategic investment focus. Notable investments include Eyewa, a leading online eyewear retailer in the MENA region, and Homzmart, an online furniture marketplace disrupting traditional supply chains in Egypt and Saudi Arabia. These companies exemplify how Nuwa Capital leverages technology to create efficiencies and unlock value in established industries.

5. Nuwa Capital Dubai: A Hub for Innovation

Nuwa Capital's Dubai operations situate it within one of the world's most dynamic startup hubs, benefiting from the city's robust infrastructure and supportive business environment. The firm's involvement in Dubai also enables it to access a wide network of tech companies and financial institutions, facilitating collaboration and growth opportunities within the region's thriving ecosystem.

6. Fund Size and Asset Under Management (AUM)

Nuwa Capital's inaugural fund, Nuwa Venture Fund I, closed with capital commitments exceeding $100 million. This substantial fund size allows the firm to make impactful investments in high-potential startups while maintaining its strategic focus on early to growth-stage investment opportunities. Although the exact Asset Under Management (AUM) figure remains undisclosed, the firm's capital capacity positions it as a formidable player in the regional venture capital landscape.

7. Nuwa Capital's Role in DIFC

Based in the Dubai International Financial Centre, Nuwa Capital operates within a leading financial hub known for its regulatory framework tailored to support venture funds and startups. This advantageous positioning contributes to an ecosystem that encourages innovation and nurtures entrepreneurial ventures, aligning with Nuwa's mission to empower transformative businesses.

8. Khaled Talhouni's Leadership and Vision

As a managing partner, Khaled Talhouni brings a wealth of experience and a visionary approach to venture capital. His leadership emphasizes recognizing disruptive business models and tapping into inefficiencies in traditional markets. Talhouni's philosophy centers around strong founder relationships, providing both capital and mentorship to drive startups towards success, thus reinforcing Nuwa Capital's identity as a cornerstone investor in the region.

9. Investment in MENA's Tech Ecosystem

Nuwa Capital plays a pivotal role in supporting the MENA region's tech ecosystem, characterized by exponential growth and increased international interest. By backing firms that cater to local market needs while also having global relevance, Nuwa Capital positions itself as a catalyst for tech innovation, contributing significantly to the digital transformation of regional economies.

10. Future Prospects and Developments

Looking ahead, Nuwa Capital plans to further leverage its robust network and strategic partnerships to support new and existing startups. With a focus on sectors such as fintech, healthtech, and proptech, the firm is poised to continue scaling its influence across the MENA region, offering its portfolio companies operational support, strategic guidance, and access to cutting-edge technological solutions.

Conclusion

Nuwa Capital stands out as a pioneering venture capital firm within the MENA region, distinguished by its innovative investment approach and leadership under Khaled Talhouni. Through strategic investments and an emphasis on founder relationships, Nuwa Capital not only empowers startups but also contributes to shaping the future of the regional digital economy. As the venture capital landscape in MENA continues to evolve, Nuwa Capital remains at the forefront, poised to unlock new avenues of growth and innovation.