KAUST and SABB announced the winners of the TAQADAM startup accelerator program, awarding over 4 million SAR in zero-equity funding to 11 startups. 10 winners were selected by judges to receive 375,000 SAR each, with an additional People's Choice award of the same amount. The 2020 cohort included startups from eCommerce, HealthTech, EdTech and FinTech. Why it matters: This program highlights the growing entrepreneurship ecosystem in Saudi Arabia, fostering innovation across diverse sectors and attracting international interest.
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.