Egypt’s startup ecosystem continues to show resilience, attracting $2.2 billion in venture capital since 2020 despite economic headwinds, according to Rania Al-Mashat, Minister of Planning, Economic Development, and International Cooperation.
Al-Mashat, who also chairs the Ministerial Group for Entrepreneurship, made the remarks during the launch of the Annual Egyptian Entrepreneurship Sector Diagnostic Report (SDR 2025) by Entlaq. The conference, held in El Gouna, brought together ministers, investors, and startup leaders to discuss reforms and opportunities in the entrepreneurial landscape.
The Minister noted that investment momentum remains strong. Startups secured $254 million in announced investments in the first eight months of 2025, marking a 17% increase in the number of deals compared to last year. She highlighted this as proof of “growing appetite for investment in innovative solutions and the ability of startups to expand their reach across society.”
Al-Mashat said the government is finalizing a comprehensive incentive package under Egypt’s Startup Charter. The measures, developed in coordination with 19 government agencies, aim to remove structural bottlenecks, simplify licensing procedures, and expand access to financing. More than 70 policy incentives have been designed, she said, ranging from support for international expansion of Egyptian startups to mechanisms allowing their participation in government projects.
One of the key reforms under preparation is a unified financing initiative to channel resources toward more than 5,000 startups. The initiative is expected to help create around 500,000 direct and indirect jobs, with a strong focus on fintech companies that empower women and promote social and environmental impact.
The Minister also confirmed that a Guide for Government Services and Licenses for Startups is being finalized. Covering 14 high-growth sectors, the guide will provide entrepreneurs with practical information on required documents, legal frameworks, timeframes, and costs, thereby increasing transparency and reducing uncertainty.
“These steps are part of Egypt’s broader economic development narrative, which seeks to shift towards a productivity-driven model,” Al-Mashat explained. “Our goal is to empower the private sector, consolidate macroeconomic stability, and advance structural reforms that stimulate innovation and growth.”
She underscored that the creation of the Ministerial Group for Entrepreneurship reflects the government’s commitment to building an inclusive, knowledge-based economy. The group, formed by decision of Prime Minister Dr. Mostafa Madbouly, brings together ministers, regulators, entrepreneurs, investors, and civil society actors in a participatory framework to strengthen the entrepreneurial environment.
Al-Mashat commended Entlaq’s work in producing the SDR 2025 report, describing it as “a flagship reference for entrepreneurship in Egypt and a practical tool for both policymakers and investors.” The report offers a multidimensional analysis of the ecosystem, connecting economic indicators with regulatory and institutional frameworks while identifying reforms needed to drive the sector forward.
She concluded by affirming that startups are not only contributors to GDP but also vital engines of resilience, inclusivity, and innovation. “With the right support, Egypt’s startups will continue to transform challenges into opportunities and position the country as a regional hub for entrepreneurship,” she said.