Sukna Ventures

Overview

Founded in 2012, Sukna Ventures is a prominent venture capital firm headquartered in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. It primarily focuses on investing in early-stage tech startups within the MENA region, with a particular focus on sectors such as digital transformation, financial services, and software innovations. Over the years, Sukna Ventures has expanded its portfolio, raising significant capital to foster high-growth potential businesses across the globe.

Recent Developments

  • July 2025: Sukna Ventures announced plans to invest over USD 80 million in startups within Saudi Arabia and the MENA region. The initiative aims to boost its portfolio to USD 130 million, establishing a SAR 375 million direct lending fund for SMEs, offering Sharia-compliant, non-dilutive financial solutions, reflecting its strategic focus on growing innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.
  • April 2025: The firm participated in a $10 million seed funding round for InfiniLink, a semiconductor startup focused on developing optical data connectivity chips for AI data centers. The funding round was led by MediaTek, with contributions from Sukna Ventures and Egyptian firm Egypt Ventures, further underscoring Sukna's commitment to backing tech-driven solutions.
  • December 2024: Sukna Ventures entered an MoU with Bank AlJazira to enhance support for startups in Saudi Arabia, highlighting its collaborative approach to fostering a conducive environment for innovation.

Company Information

AttributeInformation
Founding Date2012
HeadquartersRiyadh, Saudi Arabia
FoundersFares Bardeesi, Waleed Alballaa (Key figures)
IndustryVenture Capital, Technology
Number of Employees7 (team members noted)

Early History

Sukna Ventures was established in 2012, originating as a branch of Sukna Capital, with the intent of bridging gaps in the venture capital landscape for tech startups in the MENA region. It quickly positioned itself as a catalyst for innovation, focusing on areas like fintech, SaaS, and IT sectors, diversifying its reach into Asia and North America. Its early investments primarily targeted disruptive technologies and innovative business models, setting the groundwork for future expansion and diversification.

Company Profile and Achievements

Sukna Ventures operates with a multifaceted business model, focusing on high-potential, early-stage ventures, primarily within technology and digital transformation sectors. Driven by a mission to empower the region's most promising startups, it has strategically diversified its portfolio across several industries:

  • Portfolio Expansion: By 2025, Sukna Ventures had a portfolio comprising over 24 companies, with investments spanning various stages from seed to early growth.
  • Significant Investments: The firm has notably backed startups in the USA and Saudi Arabia, investing in sectors like fintech and SaaS, showcasing an adaptable investment strategy aligned with market trends.
  • Partnerships and Collaborations: It regularly collaborates with local banks and global tech leaders to foster innovation ecosystems, marked by strategic partnerships like the one with Bank AlJazira.

Current Operations and Market Position

Sukna Ventures maintains a robust presence in the venture capital scene across Saudi Arabia and the broader MENA region. Its operations are characterized by significant capital deployment in tech-driven businesses that demonstrate high scalability and growth potential. The firm's strategic market positioning allows it to leverage its resources and networks to provide unparalleled support to its portfolio companies, aiding them in navigating the challenges of digital transformation landscapes. With a focus on non-dilutive financing solutions, Sukna Ventures addresses critical gaps in funding for SMEs and startups, enhancing its reputation as a supportive partner in growth.

Conclusion

Sukna Ventures continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the tech and startup ecosystem in the MENA region. With a strong commitment to innovation and entrepreneurship, it remains at the forefront of supporting cutting-edge startups that promise to redefine industries. As it expands its investment scope and develops new funding frameworks like their direct lending fund, Sukna Ventures is well-positioned to unlock significant growth opportunities, contributing to a vibrant economic landscape driven by technological advancement and creativity.

References

  1. Sukna Ventures Official Site
  2. Waya Media - Sukna Ventures Investment Plan
  3. PitchBook - Sukna Ventures Profile
  4. Tech Tracxn - Sukna Ventures Investment History
  5. Wamda - Sukna Capital CMA Approval
  6. Bloomberg - Sukna Ventures Profile
  7. Crunchbase - Sukna Ventures Overview
  8. PRWeb - InfiniLink Funding Announcement
  9. LinkedIn - Sukna Ventures Updates