7X Partners with SC Ventures to Empower SMEs in MENA During Abu Dhabi Finance Week
7X, a leading trade, transport, and logistics investment group, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with SC Ventures, the innovation and fintech investment arm of Standard Chartered, during Abu Dhabi Finance Week. The agreement sets the stage for a strategic collaboration aimed at empowering small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).
This partnership brings together the complementary strengths of 7X and SC Ventures to address key challenges faced by SMEs, including limited access to funding, market entry barriers, and operational inefficiencies. The initiative aims to develop and test a minimum viable product (MVP) tailored to SMEs, offering technology-enabled, scalable solutions that promote sustainable growth and market resilience.
Leaders Speak on Collaboration
Abdulla Mohammed Alashram, Group CEO of 7X, emphasized the importance of collaboration: “We at 7X firmly believe in the transformative power of collaboration. Our partnership with SC Ventures reflects our commitment to empowering SMEs and driving economic growth across the MENA region. By combining our expertise in trade and logistics with SC Ventures’ innovative strategies, we aim to redefine entrepreneurship in one of the world’s most dynamic regions.”
Alex Manson, CEO of SC Ventures, highlighted the potential of the SME sector: “The MENA region holds immense potential for SMEs, and SC Ventures is dedicated to supporting their growth. Our SME-focused platform, planned for launch in the second half of 2025, will facilitate cross-border trade and help SMEs grow safely and profitably. Through this partnership with 7X, we aim to unlock the full potential of SMEs in the region and beyond.”
Strategic Innovation for SME Growth
The collaboration will leverage innovative business models, SME validation frameworks, and strategic go-to-market approaches. Both organizations will also explore additional alliances to deliver transformative solutions tailored to MENA’s unique market needs.
SC Ventures, recognized for its role in revolutionizing financial services globally, sees this partnership as a step towards strengthening SMEs’ role in the economy. Together, 7X and SC Ventures aim to enhance MENA’s economic resilience, foster sustainable development, and enable SMEs to thrive on a global scale.
