Middle East Startup Pitches, Fireside Chat with Aman Verjee, networking
We’re closing a two-week Silicon Valley immersion with a fast, founder-first evening: a 30-minute fireside chat, 10 startup pitches, and focused networking. This cohort features founders from Kuwait, Jordan, Iraq, KSA, UAE, and Bahrain.
This event, organized by Zamir Shukho with the support from Zain Great Idea & Pillsbury Law , offers a unique platform to connect VCs, founders, and industry experts.
Fireside Chat
Aman Verjee — General Partner & Founder, Practical VC (ex-COO 500 Startups; former strategy lead at PayPal/eBay; JD Harvard, BA Stanford). He invests in the secondary market and early-stage, and has helped teams raise $1B+ across debt and equity.
Zamir Shukho — Managing Partner, Vibranium.VC; 20+ years in venture, corporate innovation, and accelerators. He builds global founder pipelines and connects emerging ecosystems with Silicon Valley.
Startup Pitches (Top 10)
Sectors span AI, SaaS, Fintech, Healthtech, Agri/Climate, and Consumer. Teams are seeking US partners, pilots, and capital.
Who Should Attend
VCs, CVCs, angel investors, corporate scouts, ecosystem leaders, and founders looking to partner with high-growth teams from the Middle East.
Agenda
4:30 – 5:00 PM · Check-in & networking
5:00 – 5:30 PM · Fireside chat: Aman Verjee × Zamir Shukho
5:30 – 6:30 PM · Top 10 startup pitches (tight timers)
6:30 – 7:00 PM · Open networking
Notes: Dinner will be served with light refreshments. A professional photographer will be on site. Limited capacity to maintain quality. Business casual attire is fine.