Podeo Secures $5.4M in Series A Funding for Podcast Distribution

Podeo Secures $5.4M in Series A Funding for Podcast Distribution

UAE-based podcast platform Podeo has raised $5.4 million in a Series A round. The funding was led by Oraseya Capital, with additional investors such as Ibtikar Fund, Cedar Mundi Ventures, Samarium, iSME, and Razor Capital. Founded in 2020 by Stefano Fallaha, Anthony Essaye, and Mario Hayek, Podeo helps podcast creators distribute and monetize their content more effectively.

Expanding into Emerging Markets

Podeo will expand into emerging markets, including Latin America, Eastern Europe, and Southeast Asia. As podcasting grows rapidly, discoverability has become a major challenge for creators. To address this, they offer innovative distribution beyond traditional apps. For instance, its platform integrates with radio stations, airlines, ride-hailing services, and messaging apps.

An All-in-One Solution

they provide a comprehensive platform for podcast creators. It simplifies the process from content creation to monetization. Currently, Podeo supports more than 100,000 creators and connects them to a global audience of over 50 million listeners. This unique model helps creators reach wider audiences while also optimizing their ad revenue.

Driving Podcast Growth in MENA

In the MENA region, it has transformed the podcast landscape. In just two years, it increased podcast availability by 50X. As a result, creators have seen monthly audience growth rise by an average of 166%. The platform’s tools for monetization and audience engagement have made it a popular choice. For instance, Mo Islam, host of The Mo Show, credits Podeo for boosting his podcast’s visibility and growth.

Future Plans and Vision

With the new funding, Podeo plans to enhance its AI capabilities and improve its tools for creators. Stefano Fallaha, CEO of Podeo, expressed excitement about the company’s future. He stated, “We aim to empower creators to become global audio stars.” This investment will help Podeo expand quickly across emerging markets, ensuring diverse voices are heard worldwide.

Why Podeo is Unique

Podeo stands out for solving podcast discoverability problems. By offering a wider distribution network and effective monetization tools,  changing the way podcasts reach audiences. As podcasting continues to grow, they are positioned to be a leader in the industry, helping creators succeed on a global scale.

LabLabee Algerian EdTech startup raised $3.4 million funding

LabLabee Algerian EdTech startup raised $3.4 million funding

Algerian-based EdTech startup, LabLabee, raised $3.4 million in a Seed funding round to accelerate its global expansion and enhance its hands-on learning platform. Moreover, the round, which was led by Reach Capital, also saw contributions from Classera, Brighteye Ventures, e& capital, and business angels Cedric Sellin and Mohammed Husamaddin. As a result, this funding marks a significant milestone in the company’s growth.

LabLabee’s Mission and Expansion Plans

Founded in 2021 by Samir Tahraoui and Mahfoud Sidi Ali Mebarek, LabLabee addresses the skills gap in telecom and cloud industries. In particular, their platform offers practical, hands-on training in technologies like 5G, cloud computing, and AI. Additionally, LabLabee’s sandbox environment allows users to learn, practice, and test their skills.

With the new funding, LabLabee will take several important steps:

  1. Firstly, LabLabee will expand into the U.S. market. By partnering with AWS, Azure, and GCP, the company aims to reach a wider audience.
  2. Secondly, the company will enhance its course offerings. New training labs for VMware, RedHat, Windriver, and telco security will address emerging industry needs.
  3. Finally, LabLabee plans to hire new talent. The company will focus on expanding its team in key areas such as engineering, sales, and customer support.

Addressing the Telecom and Cloud Skills Gap

LabLabee is focused on tackling the skills shortage in telecom and industrial sectors. Specifically, the platform offers on-demand labs that cover advanced technologies like 5G, IMS, and Kubernetes. Consequently, these labs help telecom operators and educational institutions integrate practical training into their programs.

This approach not only reduces training costs but also equips learners with real-world skills to stay competitive in the tech industry.

Industry Recognition and Leadership

LabLabee has earned praise from industry leaders. For example, Esteban Sosnik, co-founder at Reach Capital, highlighted the company’s work in solving the telecom skills gap. Moreover, he pointed out the technical expertise of the founders, which has driven LabLabee’s growth.

Similarly, CEO Samir Tahraoui emphasized how their solutions simplify learning. In fact, he believes LabLabee makes it easier and quicker for professionals to keep up with rapid tech changes.

Conclusion

In conclusion, LabLabee’s recent $3.4 million funding round is a key step toward transforming telecom and cloud education. As the company continues to expand into new markets, improve its course offerings, and grow its team, LabLabee is positioned to lead in EdTech. Ultimately, with its innovative approach, the company will shape the future of professional education in telecom and industrial sectors worldwide.

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UmrahCash Secures $500,000 Investment from Adaverse

UmrahCash Secures $500,000 Investment from Adaverse

As technology continues to evolve, Saudi Arabia is, without a doubt, taking bold steps to modernize religious pilgrimages. In fact, Riyadh-based fintech startup UmrahCash has just secured a $500,000 investment from Adaverse, which marks a significant step in enhancing financial inclusion for pilgrims visiting Mecca, Medina, and Jeddah. Moreover, this development highlights Saudi Arabia’s ongoing commitment to improving the pilgrim experience.

A Fintech Solution for Pilgrims

Founded in 2024 by William Phelps, UmrahCash specifically addresses the financial challenges many international pilgrims face. First and foremost, pilgrims from developing nations often struggle to exchange currency for Saudi Riyals (SAR). Typically, the process involves multiple exchanges, which, as a result, lead to higher fees and the risk of carrying large amounts of cash.

However, with UmrahCash, this process becomes much simpler and more secure. Pilgrims can now make payments in their home countries and, consequently, receive Saudi Riyals upon arriving in Saudi Arabia. Additionally, by using advanced technology, UmrahCash eliminates the need for intermediaries, thereby creating a more transparent, secure, and cost-effective experience.

Investment Fuels Expansion

Not only does the $500,000 investment from Adaverse provide a crucial boost, but it also enables UmrahCash to expand its operations in Saudi Arabia. As a result, this funding will significantly improve the company’s infrastructure and service offerings. Furthermore, this investment perfectly aligns with Saudi Arabia’s broader objectives to modernize the Umrah and Hajj industry, especially as part of Vision 2030.

In 2023, Saudi Arabia welcomed more than 26.8 million Umrah performers. This record-breaking number, in particular, demonstrates the Kingdom’s dedication to enhancing the pilgrimage experience. Therefore, as the number of pilgrims continues to rise, the demand for efficient financial solutions becomes increasingly important.

Serving the Needs of International Pilgrims

Notably, a large percentage of these pilgrims come from emerging markets such as Nigeria and Pakistan. For many, accessing Saudi Riyals can be particularly challenging. Consequently, UmrahCash steps in to solve this problem by offering a seamless currency exchange process.

Moreover, the UmrahCash app connects liquidity providers, agents, and pilgrims on a single, secure platform. Consequently, the process becomes streamlined and more transparent. Thus, international pilgrims can now handle their finances more easily and securely during their sacred journey.

Aligning with Vision 2030

As part of its Vision 2030, Saudi Arabia is, without question, focused on enhancing the Hajj and Umrah experience. In fact, the Kingdom has already invested over $1.3 billion to improve its holy sites and make processes like visa applications more efficient.

Additionally, Saudi Arabia’s Minister of Hajj and Umrah, Dr. Tawfiq Al-Rabiah, has repeatedly emphasized the role of technology in improving the pilgrimage experience. By embracing fintech solutions like UmrahCash, the Kingdom continues to promote financial inclusion. In doing so, it ensures that pilgrims can, above all, focus on their spiritual journey without worrying about complex financial issues.

Conclusion

As UmrahCash expands, it is, undeniably, poised to revolutionize payments for pilgrims. This fintech solution is not only about offering easy access to Saudi Riyals. Rather, it is about improving the overall experience for millions of pilgrims. Thanks to the investment from Adaverse, UmrahCash is now in a stronger position than ever to modernize the Umrah and Hajj industry. By combining tradition with technology, UmrahCash is making the pilgrimage more seamless, secure, and inclusive for all.

Learn more about the latest fintech innovations at kzaad.com.

Hub71 Welcomes 15th Cohort: 21 Startups Raising $134.9 Million

Hub71 Welcomes 15th Cohort: 21 Startups Raising $134.9 Million

Hub71, Abu Dhabi’s premier global tech ecosystem, has proudly welcomed 21 new startups into its 15th cohort. Consequently, this expansion brings the total number of supported ventures to an impressive 243. Collectively, these startups have raised a remarkable $134.9 million, thereby further strengthening Abu Dhabi’s reputation as a leading global tech hub.

A Diverse Global Selection

The latest cohort was meticulously chosen from over 1,228 applications. Interestingly, this group includes 17 international startups from countries such as the USA, UK, France, and Germany. Moreover, these companies are celebrated for their innovative approaches and significant growth potential. Among the notable additions are:

  • EpiBone, a US-based HealthTech firm, which has successfully raised $43 million. This company is at the forefront of pioneering tissue engineering solutions.
  • Partanna Oasis, a ClimateTech company co-founded by NBA legend Rick Fox. This firm has secured $26 million for its cutting-edge carbon-negative concrete technology.
  • Greengage, a UK-based Web3 FinTech company with $10 million in funding. Notably, this firm is set to join Hub71+ Digital Assets.

By establishing operations in Abu Dhabi, these startups will undoubtedly contribute to the city’s burgeoning tech ecosystem, thereby reinforcing its status as a top destination for entrepreneurial growth.

Driving Innovation Across Multiple Sectors

The 21 startups in this cohort span seven critical sectors, including FinTech, ClimateTech, HealthTech, EdTech, and Mobility & Logistics. As a result, their work aligns seamlessly with Abu Dhabi’s strategic goals for economic development and sustainability. Importantly, over half of the startups in Cohort 15 are at the Seed and Series A stages. This fact highlights Hub71’s significant role in nurturing and scaling early-stage ventures.

Key Sectors in Cohort 15:

  • FinTech: For instance, Greengage is leading the charge in digital assets, which further supports Abu Dhabi’s growing influence in this field.
  • ClimateTech: Additionally, seven startups, including Partanna Oasis, will be joining Hub71+ ClimateTech. These startups focus on delivering innovative sustainability solutions.
  • HealthTech: Furthermore, EpiBone’s advanced technologies address critical health challenges on a global scale, enhancing Abu Dhabi’s health innovation sector.
  • Mobility & Logistics: Not to mention, Autone, a US-based logistics company, has raised $4.8 million to improve inventory management systems.

Hub71’s Expanding Influence

Hub71 continues to play a pivotal role in supporting high-potential startups. By providing them with access to valuable investments and essential resources, Hub71 is effectively accelerating their global impact.

Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, remarked:

“Cohort 15 features an array of pioneering startups that are well-positioned to make significant contributions to Abu Dhabi’s innovation ecosystem. By facilitating investment opportunities and expanding market reach, Hub71 is accelerating their transformative impact on a global scale.”

Additionally, Hub71+ ClimateTech now supports a total of 12 startups committed to advancing sustainability. One of the newest additions is Plenesys, a French company that recently raised $3 million for its CO2-free hydrogen solutions.

Moreover, five startups will join Hub71+ Digital Assets, increasing the total number in this sector to 22. This expansion underscores Abu Dhabi’s growing leadership in digital transformation and blockchain technologies.

Conclusion: Abu Dhabi’s Growing Global Influence

In conclusion, the inclusion of 21 startups in Hub71’s 15th cohort further illustrates Abu Dhabi’s expanding influence as a global tech hub. With companies spanning diverse sectors such as ClimateTech and HealthTech, Hub71 is significantly contributing to the city’s economic resilience and sustainable growth.

For the latest updates on Hub71 and Abu Dhabi’s tech scene, be sure to visit kzaad.com.

Wattnow Secures Multi-Million Dollar Funding

Wattnow Secures Multi-Million Dollar Funding

Tunisian cleantech startup Wattnow has successfully completed a multi-million dollar funding round, paving the way for accelerated growth. Lateral Frontiers and 216 Capital spearheaded the round. Additionally, Outlierz Ventures, Satgana, Octerra Capital, and angel investors such as InstaDeep founder Karim Beguir and Guillaume Amblard joined in.

Revolutionizing Energy Management

Founded in 2018 by Issam Smaali, Wattnow provides innovative smart energy management solutions. The company integrates plug-and-play hardware with software, enabling businesses to control and monitor their energy usage. Companies can automate processes, receive real-time alerts, and track energy consumption with ease.

Smart sensors and machine learning algorithms power Wattnow’s platform. As a result, businesses access detailed insights through a cloud-based dashboard. This system allows them to optimize energy use and meet sustainability goals effectively.

Expanding Global Presence

In 2022, Wattnow raised $1.3 million in a pre-Series A round led by Katapult Climate and 216 Capital. With the new funding, Wattnow plans to enhance its technology and expand globally. Although Wattnow’s international reach is currently limited, it has already served clients in over 11 countries, including significant markets in Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and North America.

Advancing Sustainability

Smaali stated, “This funding is a significant milestone for us. With our investors’ backing, we can expand our global footprint, enhance our technology, and support our clients’ sustainability efforts. Notably, our initial clients from Tunisia are now using our solution across multiple continents, underscoring its global appeal.”

In conclusion, Wattnow’s innovations will likely shape global energy management, promoting efficiency and sustainability.