Accelerating Innovation in the Built Environment

Dar Ventures, the venture capital arm of design and engineering firm Dar, has announced a strategic partnership with global innovation platform Plug and Play. This collaboration aims to expand the reach of DarE, their startup program for technology companies focused on architecture, engineering, construction, and related sectors across Africa and other emerging markets.

The partnership will provide DarE participants with access to Plug and Play’s extensive network of startups, investors, and industry experts. The 12-week hybrid program is designed for pre-seed to pre-Series A companies with a minimum viable product or market-ready solution, targeting primarily Europe, the Middle East, and Africa while remaining open globally.

Addressing Funding Gaps in Early-Stage Startups

While Africa’s tech ecosystem raised $1.44 billion across 174 deals in the first half of 2026, early-stage startups received just $9 million—a significant decrease from $25 million a year earlier according to TechCabal Insights. This highlights the need for targeted support programs that connect promising ventures with industry expertise, customers, capital, and international markets.

DarE’s focus on specialized industries like construction and infrastructure addresses this gap by providing tailored mentorship and access to potential partners within these sectors. The program will specifically target technologies across the architecture, engineering, construction (AEC) value chain—including AI, IoT, smart cities, and sustainability solutions.

Comprehensive Support for High-Potential Startups

Selected startups will receive expert guidance, one-on-one mentorship, direct industry engagement opportunities, and curated access to investors and international markets. Dar Ventures emphasizes the program’s commitment to identifying companies with early market validation and strong commercial potential.

Beyond individual cohorts, DarE will build a global alumni community fostering continued collaboration, knowledge exchange, investment opportunities, and cross-market expansion—ensuring long-term support for participating ventures.

“DarE has always been about providing the right platform for entrepreneurs to thrive,” said Nader Aboushadi, co-founder of Dar Ventures. “Partnering with Plug and Play allows us to take that ambition to the next level by connecting exceptional founders with the expertise and markets they need to grow.”

Since launching in 2023, DarE has already supported 32 startups across four cohorts, facilitating connections between founders and industry professionals. The program originally provided up to $50,000 in equity-free funding for AEC technology startups in the Middle East and North Africa (MENA).

The partnership with Plug and Play will expand DarE’s reach beyond its initial regional focus, leveraging Plug and Play’s global network of offices, corporate partners, and accelerated startups.