KAUST will host 96 Entrepreneurship World Cup (EWC) finalists from 64 countries for an entrepreneurship bootcamp, in partnership with the Misk Global Forum (MGF). The finalists will receive training at KAUST to prepare for the EWC global finals at the MGF in Riyadh in November. Six of the finalists are from Saudi Arabia and are graduates of KAUST's entrepreneurship programs. Why it matters: This partnership strengthens Saudi Arabia's position as a hub for global entrepreneurship and aligns with its economic transformation goals by attracting international startups and talent.
MBZUAI M.Sc. graduate Shamma Al Saedi won the Ministry of Education Entrepreneurship Challenge prize for her startup, Limb, an AI-powered physiotherapy system. The Limb app uses a personalized 3D model and pose estimation to correct patient posture and provide feedback, while the Limb API allows physiotherapists to monitor patient progress. Al Saedi credits MBZUAI's Incubation and Entrepreneurship Center (IEC) for providing knowledge, access to talks, and networking opportunities that helped her develop the startup. Why it matters: This highlights the potential of AI and entrepreneurship programs within UAE universities to foster innovative healthcare solutions and support local talent.
MBZUAI and startAD jointly launched an entrepreneurship program to boost the AI startup ecosystem in Abu Dhabi. The program culminated in startup pitches, with top ideas including Audiomatic for AI-assisted audio production, Limb for accessible physiotherapy information, and Momzo, a generative AI assistant for maternity and motherhood. The 22 graduates, representing over 10 nationalities, completed intensive courses covering idea generation, prototyping, and pitching. Why it matters: This initiative underscores the UAE's commitment to fostering AI innovation and entrepreneurship, aiming to translate research into impactful businesses and contribute significantly to the nation's knowledge economy.