Yango Group, a Dubai-based conglomerate, has announced the creation of Yango Ventures, a $20 million corporate venture fund to support early-stage startups across high-growth regions like the MENA region, Pakistan, Sub-Saharan Africa, and Latin America. The fund targets startups in sectors such as online-to-offline (O2O), business-to-business software-as-a-service (B2B SaaS), and fintech, ranging from seed to Series B stages.
Yango Ventures plans to expand its capital base as entrepreneurial ecosystems grow in these emerging markets. Yango Group CEO Daniil Shuleyko highlighted the company’s broader mission, stating, “Through Yango Ventures, we’re sharing our expertise and network to help startups scale, thrive, and drive meaningful change in their communities.”
Beyond Financial Investment
The vision for Yango Ventures extends beyond monetary investment. The fund plans to leverage its network of professionals with expertise in fields like mobility, fintech, and AI to offer strategic resources and mentorship to startups. Shuleyko further emphasised the company’s approach, stating, “Our mission is simple: let people grow with us. By supporting local talent with the right tools and resources, we aspire to foster sustainable business growth and contribute to resilient and inclusive economies across the globe.”
Unlike many venture funds, Yango Ventures intends to take a flexible and supportive approach, allowing entrepreneurs to lead their ventures while offering guidance and resources. It does not plan to exert excessive control over portfolio companies or demand board seats unless specifically requested.
Ambitious Investment Goals
Yango Ventures sees Series A startups as prime opportunities for achieving returns of 10–20x over an undisclosed period. The focus is on scalable business models where Yango’s expertise can provide substantial value. As part of its long-term vision, Yango Ventures aims to collaborate with other venture capital firms to enhance its reach and impact.
Looking to the future, the fund intends to promote digital transformation and entrepreneurial growth by hosting networking events and collaborating with educational institutions to nurture the next generation of entrepreneurs.
With plans to possibly expand its initial $20 million fund, Yango Ventures is setting its sights on revolutionising the startup landscape across its target regions.
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