Abu Dhabi-based Presight, a leading AI and big data analytics company, has partnered with Shorooq Partners, a regional investment firm, to launch a $100 million global AI innovation fund. The new vehicle, Presight–Shorooq Fund I, aims to accelerate artificial intelligence breakthroughs by backing startups across multiple stages and geographies.
A Fund Designed for Global Impact
The Presight–Shorooq Fund I will focus on next-generation technologies that can transform key industries. Target sectors include:
- Smart cities and urban infrastructure
- Energy and sustainability solutions
- Fintech and digital financial services
- Artificial intelligence and machine learning
- Augmented and virtual reality
- Game development
- Industry 4.0 applications
- Deep technology innovations
The fund plans to invest in 25 to 30 companies, with about 40 percent of the capital reserved for follow-on rounds. This ensures that startups with strong growth trajectories receive sustained support as they scale.
A Unique Value Proposition
Unlike traditional venture funds, Presight–Shorooq Fund I combines investment capital with technical and market advantages. Portfolio companies will gain access to:
- Presight’s cloud computing and GPU resources.
- Secure data environments for AI model development.
- Distribution channels and customer networks spanning government and enterprise sectors.
- Shorooq’s established international investment network across MENA and Asia.
This blend of financial backing and technical infrastructure is designed to help startups scale responsibly while accelerating their path to market.
Leadership Perspectives
Thomas Pramotedham, CEO of Presight, said the fund represents a new approach by merging venture capital with infrastructure support and international market access. This model allows startups to focus on innovation while leveraging enterprise-grade tools and networks.
Shorooq Partners, known for investing in category leaders such as Pure Harvest Smart Farms, Tamara, and Lean Technologies, brings deep venture experience and regional expertise. Its track record of scaling disruptive companies strengthens the fund’s appeal to global startups seeking growth in the Middle East.
Building Abu Dhabi’s AI Ecosystem
The fund’s launch at Abu Dhabi Global Market reinforces the UAE’s growing leadership in AI innovation. By positioning itself as both a source of innovation and a destination for capital, Abu Dhabi is cementing its role in shaping the global AI ecosystem.
This initiative follows Presight’s AI Accelerator programme, which recently welcomed ten startups from 17 countries. The accelerator, developed with Microsoft’s Founders Hub, offers startups direct commercial pathways through Presight’s client base, a distinct model compared to traditional venture accelerators.
Looking Forward
With Presight’s technology infrastructure and Shorooq’s investment expertise, the $100 million fund is set to attract top-tier AI innovators. For startups, the combination of capital, technical tools, and global networks provides a powerful platform to scale faster and more responsibly.