The Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) has announced a strategic partnership with Partners for Growth (PFG), a global specialty credit manager, to provide growth debt financing for high-growth technology companies across Dubai and the wider Gulf region. This initiative aims to bolster the regional startup ecosystem by offering an alternative, minimally dilutive form of capital for companies looking to scale.
A Strategic Push For Dubai’s D33 Agenda
This collaboration is a key component of DIFC’s Strategy 2030 and aligns directly with the ambitious goals of Dubai’s Economic Agenda (D33). By expanding the range of funding tools available to founders, the partnership seeks to accelerate the growth of the next generation of technology and innovation companies. The deal also includes provisions for global transactions, allowing international businesses that bring strategic value to the region to access financing.
Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer of DIFC Authority, stated, “Our mandate is to build the world’s most advanced financial centre in Dubai, stimulate the local venture ecosystem, and support the next generation of high-growth technology and innovation companies. This partnership with PFG and our shared belief that growth debt plays a vital role in scaling high-potential companies in the region and beyond.”
PFG’s Established Track Record In The Gulf
With over two decades of global experience and more than $2.1 billion deployed across 250 companies, PFG is no stranger to the MENA region. The firm has a five-year track record in the Gulf, with notable commitments to leading startups such as Tabby, TruKKer, Bayzat, Syarah, Huspy, and Silkhaus. This experience provides PFG with deep insights into the local market dynamics and the needs of regional entrepreneurs.
“Over the past five years in the GCC, we’ve seen first-hand the extraordinary ambition and execution of regional entrepreneurs,” commented Andrew Kahn, CEO and Co-Founder of PFG. “Partnering with DIFC is a significant milestone that enables us to double down on this momentum and back the companies shaping the future.”
Target Sectors And Operational Framework
Under the new mandate, the partnership will focus on providing structured financing to companies in high-growth sectors including fintech, healthtech, insurtech, proptech, SME digital finance, and spacetech. PFG will manage the entire investment process, taking on full decision-making capabilities for origination, underwriting, and portfolio management. This ensures a streamlined and expert-led approach to deploying capital effectively to promising ventures.
About Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC)
Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) is one of the world’s most advanced financial centres, and the leading financial hub for the Middle East, Africa and South Asia (MEASA), which comprises 72 countries with an approximate population of 3 billion and a nominal GDP of USD 8 trillion. With a 19-year track record of facilitating trade and investment flows across the MEASA region, the Centre connects these fast-growing markets with the economies of Asia, Europe and the Americas.
Source: Cairo Scene
