In the heart of the Middle East’s bustling startup scene, one name stands out for her unwavering commitment to purpose-driven ventures: Noor Sweid. As the Founder and Managing Partner of Global Ventures, Sweid has not only carved her path as a seasoned entrepreneur and investor but has also become a beacon of inspiration for aspiring founders across the region. In an exclusive interview, she shares her journey, the evolution of Global Ventures, and her vision for fostering meaningful change in the startup ecosystem.
Sweid’s remarkable trajectory unfolds against the backdrop of diverse experiences, from her early days in biotechnology and pharmaceutical consulting to spearheading billion-dollar ventures. Born in Boston to Syrian parents, Sweid’s global upbringing instilled in her a deep sense of adaptability and resilience, qualities that would later define her entrepreneurial pursuits.
Her entrepreneurial journey took flight with the establishment of ZenYoga, a testament to her entrepreneurial spirit and determination. However, it was her foray into angel investing and venture capitalism that propelled her into the realm of impactful change. Recognizing the pressing need for access to capital in the region, Sweid founded Global Ventures in 2018 with a clear mission: to support emerging-market founders with transformative ideas.
Under Sweid’s leadership, Global Ventures has emerged as a trailblazer in the venture capital landscape, with a portfolio spanning over 60 startups and assets under management totaling $300 million. From groundbreaking fintech unicorns like Tabby to innovative agritech solutions such as RedSea, Global Ventures is at the forefront of nurturing startups that are reshaping industries and driving socio-economic progress.
Sweid’s investment philosophy goes beyond financial returns; it’s rooted in the belief that purpose-driven founders have the power to catalyze meaningful change. By backing entrepreneurs who are committed to addressing pressing societal challenges, Global Ventures is not only driving innovation but also contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive future.
In Sweid’s words, “The objective is always to generate returns for our limited partners, but if we back the founders who are out there with a mission to actually improve the world as they see it, then you can make a change.” Her commitment to empowering founders, particularly women entrepreneurs, is evident in her role as a judge on Shark Tank Dubai, where she champions diversity and inclusion in the startup ecosystem.
Looking ahead, Sweid envisions a future where purpose and profit intersect, where startups leverage technology to tackle global challenges and drive positive change. As she continues to lead Global Ventures on its mission to redefine venture capitalism in the Middle East, Sweid remains steadfast in her dedication to building a more equitable and sustainable future for all.
