The ultimate goal of the ESCWA Investment Readiness Programme is to equip high-potential SMEs and startups from the Arab region with the skills, knowledge, and connections needed to secure investment, establish strategic B2B partnerships, and scale internationally into markets such as the GCC, EU, Türkiye and US.
Responsibilities
Sourcing and Selection The consultant will conduct targeted outreach to high-potential startups and SMEs, aiming to attract 150–200 applications. They will manage the screening and shortlisting process based on pre-defined selection criteria, ultimately selecting the top 20 businesses to participate in the pilot program.
Coaching The consultant will provide individualized coaching support, helping businesses refine their financial plans, strengthen their pitch decks, and develop effective fundraising strategies. They will offer hands-on guidance to ensure participants are well-prepared to engage with investors.
Training The consultant will work closely with the selected businesses to build a strong foundation for growth. They will deliver tailored training to help participants become investment-ready, with guidance on business modeling, market positioning, scaling strategies, and approaches to attracting potential investors.
Investor Mobilization and Matchmaking The consultant will mobilize regional and international investors, particularly from GCC, EU, UK, Türkiye, and US markets. For each participating startup, they will prepare a concise one-page profile to facilitate matchmaking, connecting businesses with potential investors and partners based on sector focus and investment interests.
Demo Day Organization The consultant will organize and host a Demo Day during the 4th Arab SMEs Summit in November 2025. They will support SMEs in pitching to investors and forging connections with partners, with a strong focus on deal-making, matchmaking, and achieving tangible outcomes for the participating businesses. Supervision & Coordination: The consultant will report to the Director of ETC.
Qualifications/special skills
A bachelor’s degree in finance, business administration, economics, engineering, entrepreneurship or a related field is required. All candidates must submit a copy of the required educational degree or proof of work experience.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
8 years of experience in designing and delivering investment readiness programs, including expertise in financial modeling, due diligence, and preparing businesses for investor engagement is required.
Strong understanding of global tech ecosystems, startup dynamics, and emerging market opportunities, particularly in the GCC, EU, US, and Türkiye is required.
Demonstrated track record in investment deck preparation, investor targeting and outreach, and facilitating investor-startup matchmaking is required.
Established network of regional and international investors, venture capital firms, and strategic partners across key sectors is desirable. Experience in supporting SMEs and startups through the fundraising journey, including negotiation management, deal structuring, and closing investment opportunities is desirable.
Languages
English and French are the working languages of the United Nations Secretariat; Arabic is a working language of ESCWA.
