Paul Oliva, commercial attaché at the U.S. Embassy in Egypt, emphasized efforts to connect Egyptian entrepreneurs with international investors, incubators, and technical support during the SelectUSA Tech event at the AUC Venture Lab.
The event featured 16 startups nominated by local incubators and investment funds, competing before a panel of judges who evaluated market potential, technical feasibility, investment viability, and innovation.
Two startups were selected as winners, while two others received special recognition. The winning companies will receive funding to travel to the SelectUSA Investment Summit in Washington, D.C., in May to present their ideas to U.S. investors.
Oliva highlighted ongoing collaboration with the Egyptian ministries of communications and information technology, planning and economic development, and foreign affairs, as well as other stakeholders, to align policies that make it easier for startups to identify opportunities, access funding, and connect with incubators.
“The biggest impact comes from communication and coordination, making sure entrepreneurs know where opportunities, funding, and support exist, and how to access it,” he said. The program also gives startups access to venture capitalists, angel investors, and incubators in the U.S., helping companies scale internationally, a path already followed successfully by several Egyptian startups.
The initiative is part of a broader collaboration between the U.S. Embassy, Egyptian ministries, educational institutions, and incubators to strengthen the innovation ecosystem.
Oliva explained that Egyptian startups are linked to U.S. and global incubators that provide guidance on pitching, legal and regulatory frameworks, and structuring ideas for investment. Participation in SelectUSA Tech allows entrepreneurs to connect with investors and incubators in the United States, further supporting their growth and international expansion.
He added that alongside financial support, technical, legal, and advisory resources are critical for startup success. The event reflects a broader effort to strengthen Egypt’s innovation ecosystem and expand access to international markets for local entrepreneurs.
