DFHQ Investor Series: Why MENA startups struggle with US capital, and how to win in 2026 w/ LvlUp Ventures & Cercli

​The Pain Point

​MENA startups raised record international capital since 2025, with US investors playing a leading role at later stages. Yet early-stage rounds stay overwhelmingly local. Fundraising feels riddled with network gaps, mismatched narratives, longer diligence and headwinds in 2026, making US capital feel out of reach.

​What You’ll Learn

• ​Why many strong MENA decks fail with US VCs (and how to fix them fast)

• ​Proven playbooks for warm intros, positioning, and traction signals that resonate in Silicon Valley

• ​Key pitfalls in 2026: term sheets, valuation expectations, and managing cross-border risk

• ​How we’re solving for this at LvlUp with our Pathways (direct access to US networks, feedback sessions, and acceleration support).

​Who Should Attend

​MENA founders (pre-seed to Series A), especially those building in AI, fintech, logistics, and deep tech who want global scale.

​Speakers

• ​Sid Savara - Finance, Cercli (YC S23)

• ​Aaron Golbin - GP, LvlUp Ventures Global

• ​Sanjana Raheja - MENA Partner, LvlUp Ventures and MENA Partner, Strategy Tools (moderator)

​Outcome

​Leave with concrete next steps, templated outreach, pitch adjustments, and warm pathways — not just inspiration.

​Date & Time: July 21st, 5:00-6pm (GMT +4) / 9:00am ET

​Location: DFHQ, Dubai