KAUST, in partnership with SABB, has opened applications for the 2021 TAQADAM Startup Accelerator, welcoming up to 60 startups. Each startup will receive 150,000 SAR in zero-equity grant funding, access to co-working spaces, training, and expert mentors during the six-month program. Saudi Arabian-based startups at all stages and international startups planning to expand into Saudi Arabia are encouraged to apply by April 10, 2021. Why it matters: This accelerator program provides crucial resources and funding for early-stage entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia, fostering innovation and contributing to the growth of the Kingdom's startup ecosystem.
Global technology giants have reportedly partnered with Blossom Accelerator, a startup acceleration program. This collaboration is expected to support and foster innovation within the startup ecosystem. The specific global tech giants involved and the detailed nature of their joint initiatives are not specified in the title. Why it matters: Such partnerships are vital for driving economic diversification and strengthening the regional startup landscape by providing crucial resources and mentorship to emerging companies.
KAUST and the Saudi British Bank (SABB) are partnering in the TAQADAM Startup Accelerator program, supporting 82 entrepreneurs from 37 teams across 18 Saudi universities. The program offers up to SR75,000 ($20,000) in pre-seed funding from SABB, working spaces at KAUST, and mentorship over six months. The accelerator has awarded SR4.5 million ($1.2 million) in pre-seed funding to date and aims to contribute to economic development and job creation in line with Saudi Vision 2030. Why it matters: This collaboration fosters innovation and entrepreneurship in Saudi Arabia, providing crucial resources for startups in key technology sectors like AI and fintech.
KAUST and SABB (Saudi British Bank) have partnered to launch a startup accelerator program. The program will be open to multiple universities in Saudi Arabia. Details on the application process and specific program focus are forthcoming. Why it matters: University-linked accelerators boost Saudi Arabia's innovation ecosystem by providing resources for young companies.
KAUST's TAQADAM Accelerator program has commenced its fourth cohort virtually, featuring 59 startups and 168 entrepreneurs from Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Lebanon, and Egypt. This year marks the first time international startups have been accepted into the program, which offers up to SAR 150,000 in zero-equity funding. The bootcamp includes intensive training, workshops, mentorship, and guest speakers from UC Berkeley and GEN. Why it matters: This accelerator is a key initiative by KAUST and SABB to foster entrepreneurship and technological innovation in Saudi Arabia, aligning with the Kingdom's Vision 2030 goals.
KAUST PhD student Amal Aboulhassan founded MaterialSolved, a startup created with support from the KAUST New Ventures Accelerator. The startup's focus area is not specified in the provided text. Why it matters: KAUST's efforts to translate research into startups highlights the increasing focus on commercializing academic innovation within the Kingdom.