El Gouna - 26 September 2025: Egypt’s startups have emerged as a key driver of economic development, attracting $2.2 billion in venture capital since 2020, seven times more than the period between 2015 and 2019, despite successive challenges facing the economy, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation, Rania Al-Mashat said.
Speaking at the launch of the third edition of the Annual Egyptian Entrepreneurship Sector Diagnostic Report (SDR 2025) by Entlaq, Al-Mashat emphasized that startups are providing innovative solutions to development challenges, creating job opportunities, and driving knowledge- and technology-based growth.
She noted that in the first eight months of 2025, startups attracted $254 million in announced investments, with a 17% increase in the total number of deals compared to the same period last year. “This is a clear indicator of the growing appetite for investment in innovative solutions and the ability of startups to expand their reach across society,” she said.
The Minister confirmed that the government is finalizing a comprehensive package of incentives under Egypt’s forthcoming Startup Charter. The package includes more than 70 measures developed in coordination with 19 government entities. Among the priorities are simplifying procedures, creating an electronic platform for startup registration and licensing, and supporting local companies in expanding internationally and participating in government projects.
A unified financing initiative is also being prepared to align government and private-sector efforts, with the aim of supporting over 5,000 startups, including fintech firms that empower women economically and generate social and environmental impact, while creating around 500,000 direct and indirect jobs. Additionally, a unified definition of startups has been established to ensure resources and incentives reach actual beneficiaries.
Al-Mashat explained that the government is preparing a new Guide for Government Services and Licenses for Startups, covering 14 rapidly growing sectors. The guide will outline sector-specific requirements, documents, timeframes, legal frameworks, and estimated costs to increase clarity and transparency for entrepreneurs.
She stressed that these efforts are part of Egypt’s Narrative for Economic Development: Reforms for Growth, Jobs & Resilience, which seeks to transition toward a productivity-driven economic model by empowering the private sector, consolidating macroeconomic stability, and advancing structural reforms.
The Minister also pointed to the creation of the Ministerial Group for Entrepreneurship, which includes relevant ministers and authorities and works closely with startup founders, investors, support organizations, parliamentarians, and civil society.
“Since its launch, the group has worked in a participatory manner, aligning with international best practices to strengthen the entrepreneurial ecosystem and achieve sustainable, knowledge-based growth,” she said.
Al-Mashat praised Entlaq’s role in publishing the annual entrepreneurship report, describing it as both a reference tool and a practical guide for policymakers, investors, and entrepreneurs. “It is not just about monitoring indicators, it is about shaping an ecosystem that fosters resilience, competitiveness, and innovation,” she concluded.
Comments
Leave a Comment