Investor Profile: Plus VC — Thesis, Cheque Size & How to Apply

Founded in 2020 by veteran MENA investor Hasan Haider, Plus VC funding has become one of the most active early-stage stamps in the region: 250+ startups across 15 MENA countries, a standard $100,000 seed cheque with follow-ons of up to $500,000, and standardised founder-friendly terms that have made it a first call for founders from Riyadh to Cairo. The firm guides startups from seed to Series A, and is doubling down on Saudi Arabia in 2026 with plans to back around 40 startups and deploy about $10 million next year.

Plus VC's investment thesis

Plus VC invests in early-stage tech and tech-enabled startups in MENA and its diaspora, looking for teams from or based in the region with a launched product and real user or customer traction. It explicitly does not invest in ideas alone; the team wants to see acquisition strategy and market response. Its ideal founding team covers three roles — coder, growth marketer, subject-matter expert — and it shows a stated preference for ventures aligned with UN Sustainable Development Goals and strong ESG practice. Fair terms, fast deals and hands-on support are the pitch.

Sectors, stages and cheque size

The firm typically invests ~$100K at seed, reserving capital to follow on with up to $500K in subsequent rounds through Series A for roughly 20% of the portfolio. Sectors are technology-led across the board, with 2026 focus areas named as construction technology, food-waste innovations and deeper engagement in fintech. Total fund size has not been publicly disclosed. The team traces its roots to Silicon Valley — Haider previously ran 500 Startups' MENA arm and built the 500 Falcons fund — giving founders access to networks across the US and the region.

Notable portfolio

With 250+ startups across 15 countries, the portfolio is broad; named Saudi investments include foodtech player Calo — reportedly targeting a local listing by 2027 — and cooling-solutions startup Strataphy, which raised a $6M seed with Outliers VC and Shorooq alongside Plus VC. The team's track record exceeds 200 completed transactions since 2010.

Programs and perks

Plus VC backs founders with more than the cheque: extensive training in critical areas, capital reserves for follow-ons, standardised founder-friendly legal documentation, and active help securing full funding rounds through network introductions. Its +Community connects founders across sectors and cities, and the annual +Portfolio Summit brings the portfolio together with investors and LPs for workshops and relationship-building.

How to apply for funding

Founders can pitch the team through plus.vc. Come with a launched product, evidence of traction, and a team that covers the build–growth–domain triangle: the firm says the combination is optimal for managing the demands of the early stage.