Startups across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) must strengthen their investment pitches by demonstrating market demand, competitive understanding, and commercial viability, according to Hussein Attar, CEO of Tech Invest Com.
Attar said the region has no shortage of founders seeking investment, but many approach venture capital firms before validating their products or researching competitors. He noted that investors receive about 2,000 to 3,000 startup pitches each year, making it essential for founders to differentiate themselves by showcasing customer demand and technological value.
Rather than relying solely on an idea, founders should support their business case with customer discussions, signed contracts, and minimum viable product (MVP) testing to prove that their solution addresses a genuine market need.
The advice comes as venture investment activity in the region slows. According to MAGNiTT, only 214 venture capital transactions were completed across the MENA region during the first half of 2026, marking a 41% year-on-year decline and the lowest first-half deal volume since at least 2022. The 10 largest deals also accounted for 58% of the $1.35 billion invested during the period, highlighting increased funding concentration.
Attar identified claiming to have “no competitors” as a major warning sign for investors. Instead, founders should clearly explain how their product differs through stronger execution, technology, or team capabilities. He also stressed that securing funds should not be viewed as the starting point of a business, but rather the next step after proving customer interest.
Discussing artificial intelligence, Attar said startups must demonstrate their ability to commercialise AI solutions, arguing that possessing advanced technology alone is not enough without a viable business model.
Tech Invest Com, active since 2005 and investing in venture capital since 2019, typically backs Series A and B startups across sectors including B2B SaaS, fintech, insurtech, and proptech.
