Playbook Transforms Members into Valued Investors - An Innovative Strategy for Fundraising for Female Founders

Leading global platform PLAYBOOK welcomes 22 Members as Investors to Lead the Evolution of Women as Influential Investors

MENA: PLAYBOOK, a trailblazing edtech platform dedicated to driving leadership transformation and advocating diversity for women globally, proudly celebrates a significant milestone as dedicated members transition into esteemed investors. They have contributed a ticket size, forming a crucial part of PLAYBOOK's $1.5 million fundraising campaign. These enthusiastic investors hail from diverse corners of the world, including the United States, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Bahrain, and beyond. This transition marks a significant shift in the investment landscape, emphasizing the power of inclusive opportunities.

In an era where diversity and inclusion are paramount, Playbook is taking a bold step towards reshaping the future of venture capital. The statistics speak volumes:

• In 2021, only 2% of global venture capital found its way to women-led enterprises (Source: Bloomberg).
• Women-led start-ups have consistently demonstrated a higher return on investment, generating more than twice the revenue per dollar invested compared to their male counterparts (Source: BCG).
• Despite a substantial $3 billion raised by startups in the MENA region in 2021, less than 1% of that capital flowed to women-led startups (Source: Wamda).
• Within the MENA region, a mere 25% of private equity and venture capital firms maintain a gender-balanced portfolio (Source: IFC).

This groundbreaking initiative is aimed at fostering women's active participation in investment, transcending traditional norms. PLAYBOOK has taken note of the prevailing gender disparities within the investment sphere and has committed to democratizing access, eliminating the constraints of minimum ticket sizes. The resounding success of this initiative underscores PLAYBOOK's steadfast commitment to championing gender equality, fostering inclusivity, and amplifying women's presence in the investment arena.

By removing the minimum ticket size criteria, PLAYBOOK has created an environment where women can fully harness their investment potential, unburdened by limitations. This visionary shift epitomizes PLAYBOOK's unwavering dedication to cultivating a more equitable landscape and nurturing the evolution of women into influential investors.

"Our unshakable commitment to redefine the investment landscape has paved the way for this remarkable opportunity," affirmed Wafa Al Obaidat , Founder & CEO of PLAYBOOK. "This transformation from engaged members to valued investors reflects the collective intention to drive positive change and shape the future together. Women bring unique perspectives, insights, and experiences to the table, enhancing the collective intelligence and decision-making within our community." PLAYBOOK is also poised to introduce additional ticket sizes for its members in the near future as it continues on its fundraising journey to scale growth.

The achievements of this initiative add to PLAYBOOK's remarkable journey, having previously secured over a million dollars in funding. Esteemed investors such as 500 Global and Faith Capital Holding al have championed PLAYBOOK's mission, affirming their unwavering trust in the company's vision.

"Our investors are an embodiment of our values - fueling growth through knowledge and championing positive change. Their mission-driven mindset, dedication to education, and unwavering commitment to community upliftment infuse PLAYBOOK with a shared DNA that propels our collective journey towards lasting impact," shared Shreya Rammohan , Co-Founder & CMO of PLAYBOOK.

Rajul Kadakia , a member turned investor, shares her perspective: "I'm absolutely delighted to be an investor in PLAYBOOK and to be part of a company that truly grasps the significance of diversity and inclusivity. What distinguishes PLAYBOOK is their exceptional dedication to supporting women in the realms of business and entrepreneurship. Playbook's distinctive business model goes beyond mere profit; it's about creating a meaningful and all-encompassing impact. Through mentoring and networking opportunities, PLAYBOOK actively cultivates an environment where women in business can prosper. It represents more than just a financial investment; it signifies an investment in gender equality and diversity. With PLAYBOOK, the future is not just promising; it's inspiring."

Suman Ali Sayed , another investor, expresses her vision: "As a Culinarian, I have witnessed the incredible talent & potential that women possess in the Culinary, Hospitality & Tourism Industry. For me to switch gears & become an investor in the PLAYBOOK App aligns with the same vision to not just empower women but to give them the tools & skills to excel & successfully lead. The future certainly is bright, but we have to collectively work together to achieve statistical growth. There is a significant gender gap alone in the Food & Beverage Industry that must be bridged. PLAYBOOK App, being a career growth accelerator for women, is not just an investment for me; it's a mission. I believe the power of mentorship, resources & opportunities that PLAYBOOK App brings to the forefront is an example in itself."

An early investor, hind habbach, adds her perspective: "I'm proud to be an early investor in PLAYBOOK and excited to see the true impact they will make in coming years. I'm confident PLAYBOOK will continue growing rapidly while making education and scholarships far more accessible to women and girls who need it most. In just a short period of time, PLAYBOOK has already helped provide thousands of girls and women with the tools, resources and financial assistance needed to further their career aspirations. Their tech-enabled platform breaks down traditional barriers to higher learning, while their mentorship programs empower women to succeed in fields where they remain underrepresented."

Nessrine Salah , a member and investor, shares her perspective: "Being a member and investor of PLAYBOOK gives me the opportunity to learn, grow and give back. The network and resources it offers are holistic, offering a community of diverse talented international minds. It’s a one-stop shop to be inspired and motivated in life and work for thriving women. Contributing to the region and in particular the future generation through PLAYBOOK is an honor and a privilege."

Fatema Shakeeb, MSc , Account Executive at Playbook who turned into an investor while being an integral part of the Playbook team shares, “I am proud to be both an employee and an investor in Playbook. From the very beginning, I have been deeply inspired by Playbook's vision and mission to empower women globally. As an employee, I've had the privilege of witnessing firsthand the dedication, passion, and innovation that the Playbook team brings to the table every day. Investing in Playbook is not just a financial decision for me; it's a belief in the transformative power of their platform. I wholeheartedly support their commitment to providing women with the tools and resources they need to succeed in their careers and businesses. Playbook's impact on the professional growth of women is undeniable, and I am excited to be part of it.”

Mai El-Kinawi , Communications Strategist expresses her excitement of becoming an investor with Playbook, “I was inspired by PLAYBOOK, from its very early inception stages. Seeing the community grow, connect great talents and provide a platform for continued learning and support, just inspired me more! Deciding to invest in it was one of the easiest and most comfortable decisions I’ve made. Very excited to be part of its impact and growth journey.”

Samar Helmy , Director of Projects Air & Ocean at GRUBER Logistics & Community Head at Mentarcise said, “I invested in Playbook because I believe in the immense potential that women bring to the table.I can see the platform as a direct way to encourage more diversity and inclusion to foster creativity & innovation and a way to socially impact society by the empowered women empowering other women”?

Omar Farooq recently joined Playbook as an investor. He said, “We are happy to invest in Playbook. We see the potential of the platform and the mentality of a great team to make it successful. We believe in initiatives that help the community as well as being gamechangers on corporate cultures and we are excited to show our support for The Playbook in this objective”

Some of their other investors include Muna Al Hashemi , former CEO of Batelco by Beyon , Emon Shakoor ????? ??? ?????? , Founder of Blossom Accelerator , Rawan Baddour , Co-Founder of Zest Equity , Nora Okail , Founder of The Happiness Factory , and others.

As a trailblazing entity, PLAYBOOK remains steadfast in challenging conventions, propelling meaningful change, and creating opportunities for all. The company firmly believes that by facilitating women's entry into the investment sphere, they are igniting economic growth, kindling innovation, and nurturing a more resilient investment landscape. PLAYBOOK's notable achievements include prestigious awards such as the Gitex Technology Week Award, Mastercard and Entrepreneur Magazine Startup of the Year Award, Ibtikar Award, and TiE Global Award.

The capital infused through this transformative initiative will play a pivotal role in driving PLAYBOOK's expansion, bolstering platform capabilities, and scaling efforts to uplift women investors. This infusion of resources will enable PLAYBOOK to forge innovative programs, provide comprehensive resources, and cultivate a vibrant ecosystem that nurtures the growth and triumph of women-led ventures.

Due to overwhelming demand, Playbook is excited to announce that they will open another investment round soon. Playbook is driven by the belief that building with the community is more disruptive and fascinating than operating in isolation. The company is committed to working openly and collaboratively, guided and supported by the very community it serves.

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About PLAYBOOK

PLAYBOOK is a powerful global networking and mentorship platform for women leaders. With an award-winning leadership team that is fully-female founded, the network has been making waves regionally and internationally with its high-quality production masterclasses, robust community, networking potential, workshops, events and mentorship programs.

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