The Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA), through its Directorate of Entrepreneurship and Innovation, has officially launched the first phase of the Aqaba Sword-Fish Fund (ASFF). This new initiative, the first of its kind in the city, is designed to prepare startups and entrepreneurial projects for investment, growth, and regional expansion.
Quick Facts
- First investment-focused fund launched in Aqaba.
- A three-month startup qualification program.
- Targets entrepreneurs in Aqaba and South Jordan.
- Backed by ASEZA and Aqaba Governorate Council.
A Strategic Push for Jordan’s Southern Ecosystem
The launch of the ASFF signals a focused effort by ASEZA to cultivate a more dynamic startup environment in Aqaba. The program kicked off with an intensive three-day investment readiness boot camp at the Zain Innovation Campus (ZINC) in Aqaba, drawing founders from across the country’s southern governorates.
“The launch of ASFF is part of the Authority’s efforts to strengthen the entrepreneurship and innovation ecosystem and create a supportive environment for the growth of startups in Aqaba,” stated Dr. Thabet Al-Nabulsi, Commissioner for Tourism and Youth Affairs at ASEZA.
He added that the program is a significant step towards preparing a new generation of companies capable of competing and attracting investment, aligning with ASEZA’s vision to support the local economy, stimulate investment, and create quality jobs.
Building Investment-Ready Companies
The fund’s initial phase is centered on a comprehensive investment readiness program developed in collaboration with Princess Sumaya University for Technology via the Queen Rania Center for Entrepreneurship.
“The investment readiness program is a primary pathway to support and empower startups by providing participants with the practical knowledge and tools needed to understand investment requirements and develop scalable business models,” explained Rima Al-Tabaa, Director of the Directorate of Entrepreneurship and Innovation at ASEZA.
According to Al-Tabaa, the program includes a series of specialized training and mentorship sessions led by experts. The goal is to improve each company’s ability to prepare investment plans, develop compelling pitches, and build strategic partnerships for sustainable growth.
A Three-Phase Path to Funding
The entire ASFF initiative is structured as a three-month qualification track designed to guide startups from concept to investor meetings. The program is broken down into three main stages:
1. Investment Readiness: This initial phase concentrates on refining business models, improving investment pitches, advancing digital transformation, and strengthening the administrative and financial capabilities of the participating companies.
2. Evaluation: Following the training, companies will be assessed against clear investment criteria to measure their readiness, growth potential, and eligibility to advance.
3. Investor Matchmaking: In the final stage, qualified companies will be connected with a network of investors and strategic partners to explore opportunities for funding and expansion.
About Aqaba Sword-Fish Fund (ASFF)
The Aqaba Sword-Fish Fund (ASFF) is a new initiative by the Aqaba Special Economic Zone Authority (ASEZA) aimed at developing the startup ecosystem in Aqaba and the southern governorates of Jordan. The fund operates a program designed to prepare early-stage companies for investment, providing them with training, mentorship, and access to a network of investors to foster economic growth and innovation in the region.
Source: Al Wakaai News
