Sharjah, UAE – May 21, 2025 — At the Make it in the Emirates Forum, Najla Al-Midfa proudly announced the launch of the Emirates Growth Fund (EGF) — a groundbreaking AED 1 billion growth equity platform aimed at scaling high-potential SMEs that fall between venture capital and private equity.
Backed by the Emirates Development Bank (EDB), EGF addresses the UAE’s “missing middle” — traditional yet ambitious companies too early for private equity, yet too mature for VC. These businesses represent an AED 7 billion funding gap, but also an unmatched growth opportunity.
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SMEs form the backbone of the UAE’s economy:
- 94% of businesses
- 86% of private sector jobs
- Over 60% of non-oil GDP
EGF will offer:
- Growth-stage investments of AED 10M–50M
- Focus on strategic sectors: advanced manufacturing, healthcare, food security, and technology
- A partnership model emphasizing founder-led growth and governance support
First investment: Tarmeem Orthopedic & Spine Specialty Hospital in Abu Dhabi, founded by Emirati surgeon Dr. Ali Alsuwaidi — a post-pandemic success story that treated over 20,000 patients last year.
“EGF is more than capital; it’s a national commitment,” said Al-Midfa. “Our capital is patient — but our ambition is not.”
With this launch, the UAE sends a clear message to entrepreneurs: We see you, we back you, and we’re just getting started.
