How the XceleRise Programme is scaling up 20 high-potential startups for global expansion

With the support of Invest for Jobs, XceleRise, a scale-up programme held by Endeavor Egypt, empowered 20 startups on their path to grow globally through mentorship and investor connections. It led to the creation of 212 good jobs. XceleRise celebrated the graduation of its first and second cohort of companies on the 24th of September.

For Egyptian startups with ambitious global visions, scaling up can often feel like navigating a complex maze. Securing funding, understanding international markets, adapting business models, and building essential networks present formidable challenges. XceleRise was a flagship programme launched in 2023 by the NGO Endeavor Egypt with the support of Invest for Jobs. It equipped promising businesses with the tools and support needed to overcome challenges and scale globally with the aim of helping them to grow and create good jobs in Egypt.

20 high-potential Egyptian startups have now completed an intensive 15-month scale-up journey with the support of Invest for Jobs and that of Endeavor Egypt. Among these companies is Daleela. The AI-powered women’s health app tailored for Arab women expanded its expertise and network throughout the programme. "We had an incredibly positive experience with the programme, as it proved to be immensely beneficial for our company's growth," says Yousef ElSamma, co-founder & Chief Development Officer at Motherbeing. "The well-structured sessions provided us with valuable insights and strategies that are helping us become better prepared for the next stage of our company's development. Moreover, the programme's network of mentors proved to be invaluable, connecting us with experienced professionals who provided the guidance and expertise we needed at this stage.”

212 good jobs created

As of March 2025, XceleRise helped create 212 good jobs in the 20 companies supported. The programme's core mission was to accelerate the growth of these startups, enabling them to expand their reach and secure necessary funding. In the end 17 companies confirmed their company’s growth and 12 companies were able to expand operations in new markets. This was basically achieved through different activities, such as:

• Facilitating Access to Funding: Funding is a major challenge for startups, and XceleRise connected them with local, regional, and global investors. It provided a platform to pitch ideas, showcase potential, and secure investment. It also offered guidance on fundraising strategies, helping startups navigate the complex investment landscape.
• Providing Crucial Market Insights: XceleRise connected startups with experts who offer guidance on local customs, regulations, and consumer preferences. This support helped startups navigate international markets, adapt strategies, and enhance their chances of global success.
• Supporting Business Model Adaptation: XceleRise helped startups tailor their operations, refine value propositions, and develop scalable strategies for international expansion, ensuring competitiveness in new markets.
• Building Strong Networks: XceleRise leveraged Endeavor’s global network to connect startups with mentors, industry experts, partners, and customers, providing key insights, market access, and a competitive edge for global expansion.

The partnership between Endeavor Egypt and Invest for Jobs reflects a shared commitment to fostering entrepreneurial growth and success in Egypt. By combining Endeavor’s expertise in supporting high-growth startups with Invest for Jobs’ resources and experience in international development, XceleRise aimed to drive economic development and create good jobs in Egypt.