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Startup & Scaleup Program

Are you building something bold? If you’re a startup and you're ready to connect with founders, fintech leaders and investors, our Startup & Scaleup Program is built for you.

Got a question? Drop us a line at [email protected].

Startups At Money20/20 Middle East

Money20/20 Middle East is where bold ideas meet powerful momentum. Whether you’re an early-stage disruptor or a scaling fintech ready for your next step, our Startup & Scaleup Program is designed to accelerate your visibility, forge critical connections and put you at the center of the region’s most influential fintech event. From curated investor access to stage time and strategic networking, this is your gateway to real, measurable growth.

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Program Features
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Your Pod. Your Platform.
Your Startup Pod is more than a booth. It’s your launchpad. Showcase what you’re…
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Learn From Fintech’s Sharpest Minds
Learn from those who’ve been there. Get practical insights from fintech leaders…
Startup
Your Team’s All-Access Pass
Unlock full access to Money20/20 Middle East. Your team pass includes entry to the show floor, networking…
M2020
Investor Matchmaking
Skip the cold outreach. Our matchmaking programme connects you directly with investors who are actively looking for the…
M2020 event
Startup Support Team
From the moment you arrive, our team is here to help. Whether it’s navigating the programme, meeting the right people…
ISP
Access To Stage Content
Get the insights that matter. From AI to digital identity, our agenda covers the real issues shaping fintech’s future,…

The MoneySurge Pitch Competition

Got a pitch that could turn heads? The MoneySurge Pitch Competition is your chance to own the stage at Money20/20 Middle East. If selected, you’ll pitch live to a room full of investors, media and fintech heavyweights. It’s fast-paced, high-impact and it could shift your startup’s trajectory.

What’s on the table?

  • $400,000 in equity-free prizes and in-kind support
  • Face time with leading investors and media
  • A place on the most talked-about stage in fintech

Awards

  • Money20/20 Award ($150,000) – For the strongest, most outstanding fintech
  • Seed Award ($100,000) – For a booming early-stage startup
  • Scale Award ($100,000) – For a growth stage startup with unicorn potential
  • Impact Award ($50,000) – For the startup that has made the most significant social impact 
     

Note: Applications to the MoneySurge Pitch Competition closed on July 30 Shortlisted startups will be contacted directly as part of the next selection phase. Participation is only available to those accepted into the Startup & Scaleup Program.

Startup

Our Previous Pitch Judges

Apoorva Sharma
Apoorva Sharma
Managing Partner
Stride Ventures
Emad Kashgari
Emad Kashgari
Former CEO
1957 Ventures
Mazin Alzaidi
Mazin Alzaidi
General Partner
STV
Michele Romanow
Michele Romanow
Co-Founder & Executive Chairman
Clearco
Nezar Alhaidar
Nezar Alhaidar
CEO
Fintech Saudi
Our Previous Winners
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The Winners

 

 

Startup & Scaleup Program Criteria

Ready to join the Money20/20 Middle East Startup & Scaleup Program?

This is where the next generation of fintechs make their mark. If you’re building bold solutions in or around financial services, we want to hear from you.

Who should apply

  • Startups operating across fintech and fintech-adjacent sectors from payments, lending, and banking to Insurtech, regtech, AI and embedded finance

  • Early-stage and growth-stage companies solving real-world problems

  • Founders who are licensed (or actively working toward regulatory approval) in their target markets

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Early Stage
  • Fundraising: Under $10M
  • Founded: 3 years or less
  • Team Size: Fewer than 15 people
  • Revenue: Under $4M
  • Compliance: Working towards regulatory licenses
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Growth Stage
  • Fundraising: Under $50M
  • Founded: Between 4-8 years ago
  • Team Size: Under 100 people
  • Revenue: Under $100M
  • Compliance: Fully licensed and compliant

Startup Stories

Looking Ahead to 2025

From full-capacity stages and live investor pitches to serious face time with decision-makers – Money20/20 Middle East brings together every part of the fintech startup ecosystem. Expect smart conversations, warm intros, and the kind of momentum that lasts long after the event ends.

“24 Fintech was hands down the best event we’ve attended in years. It connected us with the right people – from banks and payment companies to investors and regulators. Meeting investors who understand our model has validated our mission and inspired us to refine and expand our vision for the Saudi market.”

 

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Yazeed Al-Shamsi
Co-Founder & CEO
Ejari

“We gained investor interest, opened doors to potential partnerships and picked up valuable insights on scaling into the Kingdom. The aftereffects have been significant, and we’re optimistic about expanding into international markets next year.”

ibrahim
Ibrahim Eid
Co-Founder & COO
Valify Solutions

“Fintech Forge led us to secure a deal through matchmaking. We found that investor at the event and it changed everything. You don’t know how much it has turned the tables for us.”

Syed
Syed Zain Ali
Co-Founder & Director
Fortify

FAQ

Who can apply?

We’re looking for fintech and fintech-adjacent startups building forward-thinking solutions across areas like payments, lending, digital banking, Insurtech, regtech, AI, embedded finance and more. Both early-stage and growth-stage startups are welcome to apply.

When will selections for the MoneySurge Pitch Competition be announced?

Final selections will be shared shortly after the application window closes. Keep an eye on your inbox.

What's the deadline to apply?

Applications close on 20 August. Don’t leave it to the last minute.

What kind of investors will be there?

You’ll find 600+ investors on-site, including global funds, regional VCs, family offices and institutional investors. Explore the full list and learn more about our investor community here.

How does the matchmaking work?

Once accepted into the programme, you’ll get access to the event app. From there, you can browse the attendee list, send meeting requests and get matched with investors based on shared interests and funding focus.

How can I get in touch with the Startup & Scaleup team?
 

If you have any questions about the program, reach out to us at [email protected]. We’re here to help.