Career 180, an innovative EdTech company specializing in career development solutions across the Middle East and Africa, has secured a significant six-figure investment from Den VC. This funding marks a key milestone as the company prepares to expand its operations into Saudi Arabia, Oman, and Malta.
The new capital will be instrumental in scaling the company’s Learning Management System (LMS), localizing content into Arabic, and extending its reach into new markets. With this growth, Career 180 aims to empower over one million learners and onboard 50,000 new users, many of whom are currently unemployed, building on the momentum of those already placed into jobs through its platform.
Strategic Expansion and Local Partnerships
A core component of Career 180’s expansion strategy involves strengthening its local presence, particularly in Saudi Arabia. The company is partnering with VMS, a regional venture studio that helps startups adapt and thrive within the dynamic MENA landscape. This collaboration will leverage VMS’s on-ground expertise, extensive networks, and operational support—elements that Moataz Abuonq, CEO of VMS, notes are critical for startups entering the Saudi market.
Shrouk Alaa, co-founder of Career 180, emphasizes the company’s mission:
“Our goal has always been to support young people in finding their professional direction, regardless of their starting point. With the support of our partners, this regional push helps us deepen our impact on talent development across the region.”
Recognitions and Collaborations
Career 180 has received consistent recognition within the EdTech industry, being named one of HolonIQ’s top EdTech startups in 2022, 2023, and 2024. The company boasts collaborations with key global and regional organizations, including the International Labour Organization (ILO), GIZ, Coca-Cola HBC Egypt, and Plan International.
The platform’s founder, Alaa El Din, was also listed among the Top 50 Female Entrepreneurs in Africa by the IFC and the Embassy of the Netherlands—acknowledging its emphasis on youth inclusion and female representation.
Looking Ahead
Career 180’s growth strategy reflects a grounded, purpose-driven approach. Rather than chasing hype or rapid scaling at the expense of quality, the company is focused on building effective, locally-relevant solutions and scaling thoughtfully—an approach increasingly rare in the tech startup space.
As it ventures into new territories like Saudi Arabia and Malta, the company’s ability to adapt its training models while maintaining core values will be critical. With ongoing support from VMS and its partners, Career 180 is well-positioned to become a leading name in career development technology across emerging economies.
Play audio
No comments