Despite the tremendous challenges in the venture and startup industry
@founding has been jingling all the way within the global startup ecosystems.
Thanks to the dedicated efforts of the FI HQ Team and committed Local Leaders, FI successfully advanced our mission of
"Activating and Empowering entrepreneurs to build businesses that have a positive impact on the World,"
even amid the most adverse conditions. Reminder, FI-GCC's first cohort was born in the pandemic.
Throughout 2023, we collectively achieved the following milestones:
- Surpassed 7K+ FI Portfolio companies, extending our reach to 107 countries globally.
- Established a record-breaking number of partnerships with governments, universities, and corporations, both in deal volume and deal revenue.
- Expanded the FI Venture Network to over 700 "First and Second-check" investors, facilitating numerous targeted introductions for our portfolio.
- Orchestrated 652 global and local startup events, including 96 in-person events, providing valuable education and networking opportunities to over 60,000 aspiring and early-stage entrepreneurs worldwide.
- Successfully hosted our first in-person FounderX Conference since 2018, with FI Network members from 40 countries in attendance.
- Rolled out a substantial update to our 'Entrepreneur DNA Assessment,' delivering more accurate results, personalized reports, and new partnership opportunities.
- FI-GCC's mentor pool increased from 190 to 228 with select mentors by invitation and forging some great partnerships.
Notably, our resilient global Alumni achieved a remarkable feat by raising over $75 million in 2023.
This accomplishment stands as a testament to their determination, surpassing the challenges posed by hype-driven companies that inundate our communities.
We express our sincere gratitude for your continued dedication and contributions to the Founder Institute's impactful mission. Together, we look forward to overcoming new challenges and achieving greater heights in the coming year..
Merry Christmas, Happy Holidays, Hope and Best Wishes for a New Year 2024.
Team FI GCC
Sameer, Hanan, Ayhan, Carmen, Katie.