Libya-based e-commerce platform Mataa has successfully closed its first Seed investment round, with participation from a network of local business angels. The announcement marks a key moment in Mataa’s growth journey, as it aims to scale its operations and improve digital commerce accessibility across Libya. Founded in 2022 by entrepreneur Ibrahim Shuwehdi, the startup is focused on becoming a central player in North Africa’s growing online retail sector.
Platform Built for Speed and Scale
Mataa is a mobile-first shopping app that offers users a wide variety of products with an express delivery option tailored to the Libyan market. With this funding, the company intends to boost both its first-mile and last-mile logistics, ensuring faster and more reliable deliveries. The investment will also support warehouse expansion and the onboarding of more suppliers, thereby enriching the platform’s product offerings and improving overall service efficiency.
Boosting the Marketplace Model for Local Merchants
The company is doubling down on its marketplace model, which allows Libyan merchants to list products and sell directly to consumers across the country. Mataa estimates it can help sellers reach over six million internet users nationwide, offering a powerful channel for local commerce. In addition to individual vendors, the platform also supports Facebook-based sellers, providing them with easy product integration that reduces reliance on paid advertising and improves conversion rates.
A Vision Grounded in Regional Potential
Mataa’s founder and CEO Ibrahim Shuwehdi highlighted the importance of investor belief in the team’s capabilities and Libya’s strategic location at the heart of North Africa. With a population of 275 million and a collective GDP exceeding $830 billion, the region represents an immense market opportunity. The funding is expected to accelerate Mataa’s role in this ecosystem, positioning it as a scalable, homegrown solution for digital commerce in the region.
Talent and Infrastructure as Growth Catalysts
In addition to physical infrastructure upgrades, Mataa also plans to recruit experienced regional talent in logistics, technology, and retail to support its growth ambitions. The company believes that operational excellence and industry expertise will be critical in sustaining long-term success. This strategic hiring approach reflects Mataa’s goal of building a robust and competitive e-commerce infrastructure from within the region.
Encouraging Broader Investment in Libyan Startups
Beyond the capital infusion, Shuwehdi sees this Seed round as a signal to the wider entrepreneurial ecosystem in Libya. He hopes that Mataa’s success will pave the way for increased venture activity, inspiring confidence in both startups and investors across the country. The funding demonstrates that Libyan ventures can attract serious attention and backing, even in a market often overlooked by international investors.
Mataa’s Seed funding round represents more than just a financial milestone—it underscores the growing momentum in Libya’s tech-driven economy. With plans to expand operations, attract skilled talent, and support local merchants, the company is poised to reshape how Libyans shop online. As it builds on this early success, Mataa stands out as a promising player in the North African e-commerce landscape, bridging innovation with regional opportunity.