Technology Innovation Institute (TII), ASPIRE, and Maqta Gateway have signed a Proof-of-Concept (PoC) agreement to develop AI and robotics solutions for terrestrial, aerial, and marine applications. The projects include unmanned ground vehicles for cargo movement and autonomous watercraft for passenger transport in Abu Dhabi. The solutions will use computer vision, communication, sensors, and Lidar technology to integrate with AD Ports Group’s infrastructure, enhancing productivity and reducing costs. Why it matters: This partnership signifies Abu Dhabi's commitment to integrating advanced autonomous technologies into its logistics and transportation infrastructure, potentially setting a new standard for efficiency and sustainability in the region.
Twelve Saudi startups pitched at the 9/10ths Startup Accelerator showcase in Riyadh, presenting diverse business concepts. Half of the finalist teams were led by Saudi female entrepreneurs. Fixtag, Innoras, Dhad, and Magadeer received grant funding from a panel of judges representing various investment firms. Why it matters: The 9/10ths program demonstrates growing investment and support for entrepreneurship and innovation across Saudi Arabia, with a focus on female leadership and high-potential startups.
VentureOne, the commercialization arm of the Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC), has launched QuantumGate at CyberQ in Abu Dhabi. QuantumGate offers data security products, including QSphere (post-quantum VPN, email, file encryption) and Salina (password-less identity management). These products are based on proprietary Technology Innovation Institute (TII) technology. Why it matters: The launch addresses the imminent threat of quantum computing to current encryption methods, providing sovereign solutions for data protection in the UAE.
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.
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.
MBZUAI students achieved top honors at the 2022 Dubai Roads and Transport Authority’s (RTA) Transport Hackathon. Sultan Abu Ghazal and his team developed Scooty, an app for scooter safety monitoring that rewards users for rule adherence. Muhammad Uzair Khattak led a team that created Salem, a mobile application to monitor motorcycle delivery drivers' safety and reduce traffic infractions by using computer vision and mobile sensors. Why it matters: The hackathon win highlights the practical AI skills being developed at MBZUAI and their application to real-world transportation challenges in the UAE.
KAUST and SABB are partnering to host a virtual demo day on March 10 for the TAQADAM Startup Accelerator. The 2020 cohort of 37 startup finalists, representing diverse industries, will pitch their ventures to investors and judges. The teams received 150,000 SAR in zero-equity grant funding and mentorship. Why it matters: The TAQADAM program is an important part of the Saudi entrepreneurship ecosystem, fostering early-stage entrepreneurs and contributing to the development of high-potential startups in the Kingdom.
KAUST launched the third cohort of its TAQADAM startup accelerator program on February 8th. The program, a partnership between KAUST and SABB, aims to equip students, faculty, and recent Saudi graduates with the tools to launch tech companies. This year's cohort consists of 133 people from 42 startups, with 35% female participation. Why it matters: Accelerators like TAQADAM are crucial for fostering entrepreneurship and translating research into commercial ventures, contributing to Saudi Arabia's diversification goals.