In a significant move for the MENA startup ecosystem, Founder Connects, a private community for the region’s tech founders, has announced a partnership with Oraseya Capital. The collaboration provides members of the Founder Connects Residency program a direct pathway into the evaluation process for SANDBOX, Oraseya Capital’s flagship investment program which offers a $150,000+ investment for early-stage companies.
Quick Facts
- Partnership: Founder Connects & Oraseya Capital
- Offer: Fast-track to SANDBOX program
- Investment: $150,000+ via SAFE Note
A New Pathway to Early-Stage Capital
This new arrangement gives pre-Seed to Seed stage startups within the Founder Connects Residency an advantage in a competitive funding environment. Eligible members will be able to bypass the general application queue for the SANDBOX program and move directly into the evaluation stage.
It is important to note that the partnership fast-tracks the application process, not the investment decision itself. Every startup will still undergo Oraseya Capital’s rigorous internal evaluation to determine its viability for funding. Founder Connects has already begun identifying and contacting eligible members who are currently raising capital to guide them through the application process.
Inside the SANDBOX Program
Startups that successfully pass the evaluation and are accepted into the SANDBOX program receive substantial support. The package includes an investment of $150,000 delivered through a SAFE (Simple Agreement for Future Equity) Note.
Beyond the capital injection, the program provides up to five months of intensive, hands-on support structured across nine operational pillars. This mentorship is designed to accelerate growth and prepare founders for scale. Participants also gain direct exposure to a wider network of venture capitalists and angel investors from across the region, opening doors for future funding rounds. The initiative is backed by Oraseya Capital, which has been recognized by MAGNiTT as the UAE’s most active investor for two consecutive years.
About Founder Connects
Founder Connects is the essential community for tech founders across the MENA region. It provides a platform for entrepreneurs to connect, share knowledge, and access resources and opportunities to help grow their businesses.
About Oraseya Capital
Oraseya Capital is a UAE-based investment firm focused on backing early-stage technology startups. Its flagship program, SANDBOX, is designed to provide pre-Seed and Seed stage companies with capital, strategic support, and mentorship to accelerate their growth trajectory.
Source: Founder Connects
