The Sudanese entrepreneurship hub 249Startups has partnered with the Netherlands-based Clingendael Institute to launch a comprehensive research initiative aimed at documenting the survival strategies of the Sudanese private sector. The survey is designed to capture critical data on how businesses continue to operate despite the severe disruptions caused by the ongoing war, providing a roadmap for future international support and investment.
Analyzing Adaptation Mechanisms in a War Economy
The collaborative study focuses on the specific pressures arising from war economy dynamics, including hyper-volatile market conditions and extreme operational constraints. By engaging directly with founders, senior executives, and decision-makers, 249Startups aims to identify the formal and informal adaptation mechanisms that have allowed Sudanese companies to sustain their operations.
The findings from this data-gathering exercise are intended to serve a dual purpose: providing an authentic look at the current business climate for regional stakeholders and guiding donor governments in their efforts to support the Sudanese private sector both within the country and across its borders. To ensure the safety of participants and the integrity of the data, all responses are being collected through a strictly anonymous digital platform.
Targeted Outreach for Strategic Decision Makers
The initiative specifically targets individuals with direct oversight of financial, strategic, or operational decisions within Sudanese firms, investment entities, and entrepreneurship support organizations (ESOs). By focusing on those with first-hand knowledge of risk mitigation and market behavior changes over time, the research seeks to build a high-fidelity model of private sector resilience in conflict zones.
This effort comes at a critical time for the MENA startup ecosystem, as Sudanese entrepreneurs increasingly seek to bridge the gap between local challenges and regional opportunities. The insights gained will likely influence how venture capital and development finance are deployed in high-risk environments across the Middle East and Africa.
How to Fill The Survey
Eligible business leaders are encouraged to share their experiences to help shape future support programs for the Sudanese economy. Complete the survey via the official link below:
Direct Link: Sudanese Business Survey
About 249Startups
249Startups is a leading entrepreneurship social enterprise based in Khartoum, Sudan, dedicated to fostering a vibrant startup ecosystem through acceleration programs, seed funding, and community building. As a central pillar of the Sudanese tech scene, the organization works to empower youth and innovators by providing the necessary tools, mentorship, and networks to scale impactful businesses in challenging economic landscapes.
Source: 249Startups
