Faisal AlNaji’s Jaree Seeks to Merge Funds with Innovation in KSA

Jaree , a new platform connecting investors with startups in Saudi Arabia, has launched to simplify and enhance the accessibility of early-stage investments in the Kingdom. Founded by venture capital professionals Faisal AlNaji and Noura AlNahedh in Saudi Arabia, the platform links startups with accredited investors , syndicates, and family offices through a curated platform. It offers investors vetted opportunities and detailed insights while providing startups with exposure to networks, pitch support, and fundraising assistance. By focusing on deal quality, founder readiness, and regulatory compliance, Jaree sets itself apart from other open-access platforms. Having recently completed the Tech Champions 4 Fintech program, organized by the Center for Outreach and Development in Entrepreneurship and Saudi Arabia's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT), Jaree is already collaborating with more than 150 accredited investors, with several startups successfully securing funding through its investor network. In an interview with Inc. Arabia , AlNaji, co-founder and CEO of Jaree, outlined how his enterprise aims to transform the investment landscape in Saudi Arabia over the next three to five years. "By lowering the barriers to entry for both startups and investors, we’re supporting the goals of Vision 2030 [in] diversifying the economy, empowering SMEs, and fostering innovation," he said. "We hope to democratize investment by making it more accessible, transparent, and efficient." In recent years, Saudi Arabia has experienced unprecedented venture capital activity In 2024, startups have raised more than $750 million, which Jaree sees as a chance to introduce technological advancements and greater transparency into an industry predominantly fueled by exclusive private networks. By leveraging the present increase in activities, they aim to make investment opportunities more accessible to everyone.

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AlNaji told Inc. Arabia Jaree operates under a commission-based structure, generating income from successful investment matches. The firm intends to launch Software as a Service (SaaS) solutions and premium services aimed at better assisting startups and investors alike; these additions were highlighted by AlNaji who stressed they would improve overall usability. “Upcoming SaaS offerings and premium enhancements are crafted to simplify fundraising and investment activities,” clarified AlNaji. “Startups stand to benefit from sophisticated analytical capabilities, targeted investor outreach tools, along with robust deal handling functions. Investors will gain access to superior startup evaluation mechanisms, comprehensive portfolio monitoring options, and special entry points for deals. Our objective here is to create an environment that prioritizes efficiency, data-backed decisions, and tailored experiences.” AlNaji addressed the hurdles involved in developing such a tech-centric solution within sectors typically reliant upon person-to-person interactions. "Building trust isn't just about numbers—it involves being open, safe, and having real-world contacts too," he stated. "We believe in Saudi Arabia that presenting verified start-up information alongside secure exchanges backed up by reliable reputations systems could effectively link individual faiths with digital ones." He pointed out that aspiring companies looking to join Jaree should originate either inside Saudi Arabia or target this specific region, exhibit evident progress or significant financial backing, possess dedicated and well-matched leadership teams, and display potential growth in rapidly expanding areas. Despite this criteria, AlNaji mentioned future expansions beyond national boundaries. “Once established domestically, we plan to extend our reach throughout various parts of the Middle East North Africa area where streamlined initial stage funding frameworks are increasingly necessary,” he commented. “Ultimately, our ambition is constructing a cross-border network linking entrepreneurs directly with financiers.” While acknowledging Jaree's role in facilitating introductions among emerging businesses and backers, AlNaji warned against relying solely on technology. He recommended new leaders concentrate on forming authentic bonds with prospective partners, thoroughly understanding their core advantages, and openly discussing positive aspects together with possible vulnerabilities. "Tools like ours aid in making vital links easier, yet it remains crucial for those starting ventures to personally cultivate credibility and express visions genuinely," he concluded. The main image features Faisal AlNaji, who is the co-founder and CEO of Jaree. This picture was provided courtesy of Jaree.

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The post for this article appeared on Inc. Arabia EN