Stride Ventures, the world’s largest venture debt platform, has announced the first close of its flagship Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM) Fund V, marking a milestone in its strategic expansion across the GCC. This move reflects the firm’s commitment to delivering non-dilutive and Shariah-compliant capital to high-growth startups in the region.
The firm has a proven global track record, having deployed over $1.2 billion across 170+ high-growth companies worldwide. In the GCC, Stride has already executed several deals with average ticket sizes of $10–15 million and established a strong pipeline of $110 million in sectors including fintech, healthtech, logistics, and climate tech.
Through the ADGM Fund V, Stride plans to triple its assets under management in the GCC to over $500 million by 2026, reinforcing its role as a long-term partner for innovation-driven growth. The firm is increasing its footprint in the region, particularly in Saudi Arabia, in alignment with the Kingdom’s Vision 2030.
Ishpreet Singh Gandhi, Founder and Managing Partner at Stride Ventures, emphasized:
“The region is at the centre of one of the most dynamic growth stories of our time – driven by a clear vision for economic diversification and global competitiveness. At Stride Ventures, we are here to be a long-term partner in that journey. Through the ADGM Fund, we are committed to providing the capital, expertise, and partnership that ambitious founders and innovators need to build businesses that will define the region’s future.”
Stride’s expansion has been supported by key initiatives such as the Riyadh Digital Innovation District (RDID) and The Garage, under the Royal Commission for Riyadh City, which have provided platforms to connect with regional startups, investors, and fund managers.
Fariha Ansari, Partner at Stride Ventures, added:
“Saudi Arabia is rapidly positioning itself as a dynamic and promising destination for innovative financing solutions, particularly in growth debt. Driven by Vision 2030’s ambitious goals to diversify the economy and foster innovation, the Kingdom’s forward-looking regulatory environment is creating exciting opportunities for investors and entrepreneurs alike.”
Stride Ventures is also collaborating with leading regional banks to deliver comprehensive venture debt solutions tailored to fast-scaling companies. With a disciplined investment approach, Stride has consistently achieved strong returns, including the full return of Fund I and ongoing distributions from Fund II.
This first close of ADGM Fund V affirms Stride’s role as a central player in shaping the future of financing across the Middle East, delivering capital that empowers innovation, economic transformation, and scalable growth.
