Rashit Makhat, director and co-founder of Scalo Technologies, a UAE tech venture company, sees the region as a dynamic hub for tech startups, which secured $258 million in funding in November alone, $146 million of this in the UAE. But in order to scale successfully, he says startups must adopt proven strategies that fuel growth, attract investment, and build lasting impact. He outlines six key steps founders can take to achieve global success.
Don’t just know your customers — understand their habits, values, and spending limits. Use this knowledge to send out messages that make sense to them and keep them engaged. With the regional ecosystem maturing, competition for market share and investor attention is intensifying.
Founders should concentrate on niche markets or unique customer segments. Tailored offerings that address specific needs can build a loyal customer base, helping startups stand out in crowded markets, paving the way for global recognition. Talent is critical for growth, yet global data shows 75 percent of tech companies struggle to find the right people.
Startups can overcome this by fostering a culture of innovation and collaboration, offering equity or stock options, and investing in employee development. This not only attracts top talent but also retains them, ensuring a skilled workforce to navigate challenges.
Scalable steps for startup success
Technology evolves rapidly, and staying ahead of trends is crucial. Startups should invest in tools and systems that provide a competitive edge, attracting both investors and customers. Limited resources can be a barrier, but partnerships with accelerators, research institutions, and tech communities can help.
Encouraging a culture of continuous learning keeps teams agile and adaptable. The regional market’s dynamic nature, influenced by political, economic, and social factors, demands flexibility. Startups should monitor industry trends and consumer demands to refine strategies.
Having a contingency plan for economic downturns or regulatory changes ensures resilience and positions startups for long-term success. Startups should break their big vision down into smaller, achievable goals, track progress regularly and use these milestones to stay motivated and focused. “Overall, be passionate about your mission,” says Makhat.
“Love what you do. This shows in your work, attracting others to support and believe in your business.”
