Abu Dhabi: Emirates Development Bank (EDB) today announced the launch of the Emirates Growth Fund (EGF), a transformative AED 1 billion growth equity platform designed to accelerate the scale, resilience, and global competitiveness of UAE-based SMEs. Officially unveiled at the fourth edition of the Make it in the Emirates Forum, EGF provides patient capital and strategic partnerships to high-potential businesses across priority sectors like Manufacturing, Food Security, Healthcare, and Advanced Technology.
According to Emirates News Agency, the fund plays a pivotal role in driving the UAE's industrial transformation and advancing the goals of Operation 300bn, the national strategy to raise the industrial sector's GDP contribution to AED 300 billion by 2031. Emirates Growth Fund targets UAE-based small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with strong growth potential and annual revenues typically starting from AED 10 million. The Fund's investments range between AED 10 million and AED 50 million per company, redefining growth capital for UAE SMEs.
By combining minority equity stakes with active value creation, EGF empowers founders to scale sustainably, strengthen governance, and build national champions that will shape the UAE's economic future. The Fund is chaired by Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi, UAE Minister of Sports, with Najla Ahmed Al Midfa serving as Vice Chair and Managing Director. The EGF Board also includes Mariam Saeed Ghobash, Mohammed Huraimel Al Shamsi, Khalfan Juma Belhoul, Hassan AlSayegh, and Stephen Welton.
Commenting on the launch, Dr. Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Chairman of Emirates Development Bank, stated that the initiative aligns with the UAE's leadership vision to enable a transformative leap in the national industrial sector, increase its contribution to GDP, and strengthen the UAE's position as a competitive and reliable destination for industrial and technological investment. He emphasized that the Emirates Growth Fund is a strategic investment in the UAE's long-term growth and prosperity, reinforcing its position as a global leader in industrial innovation.
Dr. Ahmad Belhoul Al Falasi highlighted that EGF addresses the critical 'missing middle' in SME funding. The goal is to partner with scalable businesses that drive industrial capacity, create jobs, and deliver lasting economic value. Through patient capital and active support, the fund aims to strengthen the foundation of the UAE's next economic era.
Reflecting on EGF's commitment, Najla Ahmed Al Midfa noted that the fund backs UAE founders building resilient, future-ready businesses. EGF focuses on active minority investments, ensuring founders retain operational control while gaining strategic support in governance, growth strategy, operational optimization, and institutionalization.
By concentrating on priority sectors aligned with the UAE's strategic goals, EGF aims to deepen the nation's industrial base, enhance local supply chains, and stimulate high-skilled job creation. EGF's first investment in the healthcare sector through a partnership with Tarmeem Healthcare Holding LTD marks the start of a portfolio aimed at delivering measurable impact and national value.