Bilow Capital

?? Somaliland’s 2025 Budget: A Growing Economy, Expanding Opportunities! ?? Somaliland’s 2025 national budget has increased by 11.3%, reaching $556.3 million—a sign of expanding fiscal capacity and investment in key sectors. As the region strengthens its economic foundation, Bilow Capital is committed to driving investment and supporting startups that align with these national priorities. ?? Key Highlights from the 2025 Budget (Analysis by ISIR Institute): ?? Economic Growth: Somaliland’s GDP has grown to $2.4 billion, showing resilience and investment potential. ?? Infrastructure Expansion: A 36.9% increase in economic infrastructure funding highlights growing opportunities in logistics, transportation, and energy. ?? Public-Private Partnerships: Increased donor funding (up 370%) suggests strong international confidence in Somaliland’s development. ?? Local Business Growth: Customs revenue from Berbera Port and Hargeisa Airport continues to drive trade, emphasizing the region’s role as a commercial hub. The Institute for Strategic Insights and Research (ISIR) conducted this budget analysis to provide policymakers, investors, and business leaders with a deeper understanding of economic trends shaping Somaliland’s future. At Bilow Capital, we see this as a clear signal for entrepreneurs and investors: ?? Opportunities in infrastructure, fintech, and renewable energy are growing. ?? The government’s focus on SME support and digital transformation is creating a favorable business environment. ?? Impact-driven investments will play a crucial role in shaping Somaliland’s economic future. ?? Now is the time to invest in Somaliland! We invite startups, investors, and ecosystem builders to collaborate in unlocking the region’s full potential. Thanks to the ISIR Institute for their in-depth budget analysis, shaping our understanding of key economic trends. Let’s work together to create a sustainable and prosperous future! #BilowCapital #Investment #Somaliland #EconomicGrowth #Startups #ImpactInvesting #HornOfAfrica #ISIRInstitute

Inspiring the Next Generation at Sheikh School’s Careers Day We were proud to have Hana Kaise, Co-founder and GP, represent Bilow Capital at Sheikh School’s Careers Day, an event that brought together professionals from diverse sectors across Somaliland to engage with students about their future aspirations. Organized by Pharo Foundation, the event provided pupils with the opportunity to interact with professionals through a panel discussion and one-on-one sessions. These interactions aimed to guide students in making informed decisions about their further education and career paths. It was a day filled with insightful dialogue, curiosity, and meaningful exchanges. Giving back to the community by engaging with young minds and helping them envision their futures was truly rewarding. A special thanks to Pharo Foundation for organizing this impactful initiative! #BilowCapital #Education #CareerGuidance #Mentorship #Somaliland #GivingBack

When my local partner first invited me to SomaliLand (not Somalia), I didn’t immediately say yes. I had heard about its strategic location, its growing economy, and the opportunities it presented, but I wanted to do my homework first. I spent weeks researching, speaking with people who had done business there, and analyzing the numbers. The more I learned, the more it became clear this was a place worth seeing firsthand. Arriving in Hargeisa, I quickly realized that Somaliland isn’t just another emerging market; it’s a place on the verge of something big. One of my first stops was Berbera Port, where DP World has invested $400 million to turn it into a world-class trade hub. Standing on the docks, watching the cranes load and unload cargo, I saw the future of regional trade unfolding in front of me. This port isn’t just for Somaliland, it’s Ethiopia’s gateway to the world, connecting 128 million people to global markets. The potential for logistics, warehousing, and supply chain investments is undeniable. Beyond infrastructure, one of the most striking things I observed was how the economy functions. Somaliland is still heavily cash-based. Walking through the money market in Hargeisa, I saw traders exchanging stacks of cash worth anywhere from $150 to $1,500 in a single bundle. At the same time, mobile money services like Zaad and eDahab have taken off, proving that the country is ready for financial innovation. The gap between cash and digital finance presents a massive opportunity, and there is still no international bank operating here. For the right investor, the timing couldn’t be better. Meeting with President Cirro and key ministers reinforced everything I had researched. The government is pushing hard to attract investment, building industrial parks, improving infrastructure, and setting policies to encourage growth. They know the potential is there, and they are making the right moves to unlock it. This trip confirmed what my research had already suggested: Somaliland is not just a place with potential, it’s a place where things are happening now. For investors willing to look beyond the usual markets, there are real, tangible opportunities here. I came here to explore, but I’m leaving with the certainty that Somaliland is a place to watch, and for those who move early, a place to win.

This is exactly what I wrote a year ago when I was invited to #somaliland (not Somalia) by my friends at Bilow Capital Hana Kaise Ahmed Alnoory and Khalid Esa Khadar Esa I have become an unrepentant advocate for the development of Somaliland, and now even consider myself a part of the families of friends there. I have since accepted to be a venture partner for Bilow Capital (a VC and venture studio building an entrepreneurial ecosystem in the horn of Africa region). It is an amazing country with so many opportunities, from the port city of Barbera to the commercial hub of Hargeisa, and the energy of Warjale, I see a country on the verge of economic explosion. If you are still in Somaliland, please pay a visit to the amazing Las Geel caves on the way to Hargeisa from Barbera . Somaliland is Africa's Best Kept Secret.

?? Unlocking Capital for African SMEs: The Path Forward ?? Small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are the backbone of Africa’s economy, driving job creation, innovation, and sustainable development. Yet, a staggering $140 billion funding gap continues to hinder their full potential. ?? Key Takeaways from the Latest SME Investment Report: ?? New SME funds are emerging, but fundraising remains tough – Many first-time fund managers struggle to secure investments despite their potential. ?? Local capital is growing – African sovereign and private investors are stepping up, but more engagement is needed. ?? Innovative financing models are making a difference – Catalytic capital, blended finance, and flexible investment structures are helping SME funds bridge the gap. At Bilow Capital, we are committed to supporting Africa’s SME ecosystem by fostering strategic partnerships and unlocking new investment opportunities. The future of African SMEs depends on bold, data-driven decisions and stronger collaboration between investors and fund managers. ?? How can we work together to make SME funding more accessible and impactful? Read the report below ?? Investisseurs & Partenaires - I&P ?? Repost to amplify this conversation! #BilowCapital #ImpactInvesting #AfricanSMEs #Investment #Entrepreneurship #SustainableGrowth #CatalyticCapital

?? Ramadan Mubarak from Bilow Capital! ?? As the holy month of Ramadan begins, we extend our warmest wishes to our partners, entrepreneurs, and communities. This is a time for reflection, gratitude, and giving back—values that deeply align with our mission of fostering sustainable growth and impact-driven investments across the region. At Bilow Capital, we believe in building a future where prosperity is shared. Just as Ramadan teaches patience and perseverance, we continue to support startups and businesses that create meaningful change. May this Ramadan bring peace, success, and countless blessings to you and your loved ones. Let's continue working together to uplift communities and create lasting impact. Ramadan Kareem! ???? #RamadanMubarak #RamadanKareem #ImpactInvesting #BilowCapital

???? How to Start Investing in Africa – Tips from Bilow Capital Experts ?? Africa is home to some of the fastest-growing economies and most innovative startups in the world. But where do you start? ?? Our experts at Bilow Capital break down the key steps to investing in Africa, including: ? High-potential markets to watch ?? ? The importance of local partnerships ?? ? How to invest for impact & profit ???? Watch now and take your first step toward Africa’s thriving investment opportunities! ??? ?? #InvestInAfrica #BilowCapital #EmergingMarkets #ImpactInvesting #Startups #AfricaTech

Africa’s Venture Capital Boom: A Market Poised for Growth ???? Africa’s venture capital market is set to reach $3.99 billion by 2025, with later-stage investments dominating at $3.6 billion. This reflects the growing confidence in African startups and the continent’s potential as a global innovation hub. ??? ?? Nigeria is leading the charge, with a surge in investments, particularly in tech startups—driven by a thriving entrepreneurial ecosystem. ?? Key sectors attracting investors include fintech, e-commerce, renewable energy, and affordable technology, as Africa’s young, digital-savvy population drives demand for local solutions. ?? Macroeconomic factors such as regulatory frameworks, fiscal policies, and increasing mobile connectivity are fostering innovation and investment across the continent. At Bilow Capital, we are committed to empowering African entrepreneurs by providing the necessary resources, networks, and capital to scale solutions tailored to local markets. ???? Join us as we shape the future of Africa’s startup ecosystem. Let’s build together! ???? #VentureCapital #AfricaRising #Innovation #StartupEcosystem #BilowCapital

?? Bilow Capital Engages with Local & International Investors in Somaliland ?? On February 16, Bilow Capital had the privilege of participating in the Investment Sector Coordination Meeting hosted by the Ministry of Investment and Industrial Development of Somaliland. The session, led by Minister Said Mohamed Burale and Director General Abdifatah Ismail Du'ale, brought together local investors, diaspora entrepreneurs, and international stakeholders to explore opportunities and address challenges in Somaliland’s investment landscape. Bilow Capital's Founder & Managing Partner, Ahmed Ali, contributed to the discussion, highlighting the power of strategic investments in driving economic growth ?? and fostering sustainable enterprises ??. This engagement underscores our commitment to strengthening Somaliland’s startup ecosystem and supporting high-impact ventures that create long-term value ??. A special thanks to Hibaq Ali Abdow and the Investment Department team for organizing such a productive forum ??. We look forward to continued collaboration to unlock Somaliland’s full economic potential. #Investment #Somaliland #BilowCapital #EconomicGrowth #StartupEcosystem

?? Africa’s Economic Growth in 2025: Opportunities for Investors ???? The African Development Bank’s latest report highlights Africa’s resilience and projected GDP growth of 4.1% in 2025, surpassing the global average. Despite challenges such as inflation, debt vulnerabilities, and geopolitical uncertainties, Africa remains the second-fastest-growing region after Asia. ?? Key Growth Drivers: ? Economic reforms driving productivity and competitiveness ? Strong performance in agriculture, manufacturing, and private investment ? Rising investment in infrastructure, energy, and industrialization ?? Investment Hotspots: ?? East Africa is set to lead with 5.3% growth in 2025, powered by Kenya, Ethiopia, Rwanda, and Uganda. ?? West Africa will see 4.6% growth, with Senegal and Niger benefiting from expanded oil, gas, and energy projects. ?? North Africa’s rebound (3.9% growth) is driven by Egypt, Morocco, and Libya’s recovery. At Bilow Capital, we recognize these trends as prime investment opportunities in the Horn of Africa and beyond. The report underscores the importance of impact-driven investment, economic resilience, and strategic partnerships in fueling sustainable growth. ?? Read the full AfDB report below ?? ?? What sectors do you see thriving in 2025? Let’s discuss! ?? #BilowCapital #Investment #EconomicGrowth #AfricaRising #AfDB #Finance #SustainableDevelopment