A new study of 105 investors and aspiring investors across Sudan and its diaspora suggests that capital exists for Sudanese businesses, but the market lacks the structures needed to deploy it effectively.
Produced by 249Startups, the study found that 60% of respondents are actively looking for investment opportunities, while 92% require or prefer Sharia-compliant structures. Agriculture was identified as the priority sector by 60% of participants.
Political and economic instability was the most frequently cited barrier, named by 69% of respondents, followed by a lack of trustworthy opportunities. Despite the risks, 90% identified Sudan as their preferred investment geography.
The research also points to a market built heavily on personal connections. Seventy per cent of respondents find opportunities through personal and professional networks, while a clear majority would rather invest through a formal angel group or syndicate than invest alone.
Training is another significant demand. Eighty per cent said they would attend an angel investor programme, with legal frameworks for investing ranking as the most requested area of learning. Entrepreneurs and founders made up 35% of respondents, compared with 9% who identified as professional investors.
The study was based on a structured questionnaire covering Sudan’s domestic and diaspora investment ecosystem. A second phase of the research is underway.
Source: 249Startups
