Viaka 2.0: A New Chapter for 2025
Discover what's ahead in 2025 with Viaka Connect, Viaka Capital, and Viaka Consult. Viaka is evolving to deliver deeper connections, more strategic opportunities, and greater impact.
Dear Viaka Community,
As 2024 came to a close, a comprehensive evaluation of Viaka’s successes and areas for improvement led to the conclusion that a significant revamp is necessary. This is not a complete shift in direction but rather an opportunity to bring in fresh perspectives and structural enhancements.
Viaka experienced substantial growth over the past year, reflected in the increasing size and professionalism of events, the expansion of its newsletter and LinkedIn following, and the tangible impact on Network members, such as securing new jobs and funding rounds. However, these achievements represent only the beginning of what is possible. There is strong confidence that Viaka can exponentially increase its positive outcomes for members and the broader MENA startup and VC ecosystem.
Advancing Viaka in 2025
Strengthening Leadership
Viaka is fundamentally a community-driven organization, with its succcess rooted in the people behind it. Recognizing this, Viaka is pleased to announce that Reem Goussous will be joining as a co-founder. Reem brings a wealth of experience in fostering dynamic founder and investor communities, having previously served as Chief Growth Officer at Village Capital and Managing Director of Endeavor Jordan. She will be working full-time on Viaka, based in the U.S. while maintaining a strong presence in MENA.
Reem has been actively advising Viaka since early 2024, playing a pivotal role in the organization’s rebranding and co-developing the strategic direction for 2025.
Strategic Focus for 2025
Viaka’s core mission remains unchanged: Connecting high-potential founders, investors, and professionals to build meaningful relationships, unlock capital, and drive business growth - while growing personally and professionally. However, 2025 will emphasize quality over quantity by fostering deeper connections and creating meaningful opportunities for collaboration. This will be achieved through three key initiatives:
Enhancing member engagement through Viaka Connect
Facilitating access to capital through Viaka Capital
Providing expertise to scale businesses through Viaka Consult
Viaka Connect represents a revamped membership model, prioritizing value for paying members by eliminating the previous “basic membership” tier. Key benefits of Viaka Connect include:
Exclusive Events: In-person and virtual networking and learning opportunities.
Engagement Circles: Specialized sub-communities for members with shared interests and expertise.
Real-Time Collaboration: Active Slack and WhatsApp groups for networking and resource sharing.
Increased Visibility: Opportunities for members to be featured in Viaka’s newsletters and social media.
Curated Deal Flow: Investors gain access to Viaka’s curated startup and member database.
Discounted Consulting Services: Tailored business consulting services available through Viaka Connect.
Talent Hub: A platform for exploring career opportunities and recruiting exceptional talent.
Exclusive Offers: Discounts on partner events, industry research, and specialized resources.
New Connections: Facilitated introductions to investors, business partners, and talent.
City Chapters: This year, we are launching city chapters in NYC, Boston, Chicago, San Francisco, London, and Toronto to strengthen local and global connections.
Individuals who were previously part of the basic membership tier will be transitioned to a mailing list, providing continued access to public virtual and in-person events.
Access to capital has been a foundational pillar of Viaka, stemming from its origins through venture partnerships. In 2025, this commitment will be formalized and expanded.
The network has begun reviewing deals as angel investors and establishing the Viaka syndicate.
Demo days will be further developed to provide founders with meaningful engagement opportunities with investors.
Strategic partnerships, both formal and informal, are being finalized to enhance access to alternative funding sources, including venture debt and grants.
Viaka aims to facilitate and participate in funding rounds—no matter the check size—to support founders leveraging the strength of the Network.
Those interested in co-investing, participating in demo days, or offering alternative funding options to founders are encouraged to engage with Viaka.
Viaka Consult continues to serve as a conduit for business opportunities by connecting founders with vetted consultants and industry experts. As the organization moves toward a more engaged membership model, it anticipates increased visibility into member needs and a greater ability to address specific business challenges.
Consultants and service providers interested in partnering with Viaka or offering exclusive benefits to members are encouraged to reach out.
Looking Ahead
We are so grateful to all members and supporters who have contributed to its journey. The decision to phase out free membership was made after careful consideration of its long-term impact. While non-paying members will still receive access to select virtual events, newsletters, and public in-person gatherings, the focus remains on delivering high-value outcomes for engaged members.
We’d Love To Hear From You
Viaka values the insights and ideas of its members and supporters. Your input is key to shaping the community and driving its growth. As we enter this next phase in 2025, we’d love to hear from you. Take a look at our newly rebranded website and stay connected as we continue to build and expand.