For the fifth year in a row, we’re inviting entrepreneurs from Saudi Arabia and beyond to apply for the TAQADAM Startup Accelerator. One of MENA’s top accelerators, TAQADAM helps startups at all stages of growth define, launch, and promote their big ideas. Learn more about TAQADAM, see how we’re supporting the next generation of entrepreneurs, and apply now.
We’ve wrapped the latest TAQADAM Showcase, with 37 innovative startups hitting the (virtual) stage and sharing their big ideas with the world. And, once again, we’re inspired and invigorated by this year’s founders — entrepreneurs representing diverse backgrounds, industries, and experiences who each took their dynamic concepts to launch in one of the most challenging climates in history.
But that’s just the beginning. Because, as we closed out the showcase, we kicked off our call for 2021 TAQADAM Startup Accelerator applications.
Now through April 10, 2021, submit your startup for your chance to join the 2021 cohort. This year we’ll welcome up to 60 new startups into the six-month accelerator, with accepted founders receiving 150,000 SAR in zero-equity grant funding plus access to co-working spaces, training, and expert mentors — everything needed to scale a successful startup.
As in previous years, the 2021 accelerator will be powered by KAUST and SABB. This year marks the fifth consecutive year of their TAQADAM partnership, which speaks to the organizations’ shared commitment to fueling innovation and entrepreneurship in Saudi Arabia. The TAQADAM Startup Accelerator is one of SABB’s key social initiatives as part of its responsibility to support young people’s aspirations and contribute to developing a generation capable of leading the country in trade, industry, knowledge, and technology.
“The 2021 TAQADAM Startup Accelerator will be the most exciting ever. Building on the success of the 2020 cohort, delivered in extraordinary circumstances, we look forward to making this year the best yet,” said Dr. Kevin Cullen, vice president of Innovation and Economic Development at KAUST. “Since its inception in 2016, we’ve seen the scale and quality of the program increase every year. We experimented and learned a lot in 2020 and will use that to create an even more valuable experience for the next generation of brilliant entrepreneurs.”
Early to late-stage startups from any sector may apply for the accelerator. TAQADAM is based at KAUST in Saudi Arabia, however, international teams with an eye on expanding into Saudi Arabia may also apply.
]In 2016, KAUST and SABB partnered to launch the first TAQADAM Startup Accelerator. Since then, 163 startups have graduated from the program, with more than 20 million SAR in zero-equity funding awarded.
Interested in applying to the 2021 startup accelerator cohort — or know someone who should? We’re now officially accepting applications. Apply now through April 10, 2021, for a chance to secure a spot in the next class.
