Applications are now open for the 9th edition of the StartSmart Competition, a Saudi annual entrepreneurship challenge that empowers entrepreneurs with bold, AI-driven ideas, promising MVPs, and pre-seed startups from across the Kingdom. The program offers market-driven training, expert mentorship, and substantial equity-free prizes to fuel the growth of innovative ventures in Saudi Arabia.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: Competition.
- For: Saudi-based, AI-powered ideas, MVPs, and pre-seed startups.
- Key Benefits: Equity-free cash prizes up to SAR 50,000, a virtual bootcamp, and investor connections.
- Application Deadline: November 13, 2025.
- Location: Saudi Arabia.
Competition Overview
Previously named MIT Enterprise Forum Saudi Arabia, the StartSmart Competition provides early-stage entrepreneurs with a comprehensive program to help them build their MVPs and connect with investors. The 40 top participating ideas will go through a comprehensive boot camp, where they will learn the necessary skills to develop their product prototypes. The program culminates in a final stage where the top three ideas are selected to receive valuable cash prizes.
Prizes and Awards
The top three winning ideas will receive the following equity-free cash prizes:
- First Place: SAR 50,000.
- Second Place: SAR 30,000.
- Third Place: SAR 20,000.
Pre-Competition Roadshows
To introduce the competition to entrepreneurs across Saudi Arabia, the organizers are hosting a series of interactive roadshows. These events feature training bootcamps and Q&A sessions designed to provide insights, sharpen entrepreneurial skills, and help participants prepare their ideas for success.
Eligibility Criteria
- Your innovative solution must be AI-powered.
- Your idea must be based in Saudi Arabia, and at least one team member must be a Saudi national.
- Your idea or MVP must present an innovative solution to an ongoing challenge within the Saudi market.
- You must be fully committed to the program throughout its duration.
Key Dates and Schedule
- Application Closes: November 13, 2025.
- Announcement of the top 40 ideas: November 20, 2025.
- 2-Month Virtual Bootcamp: Begins December 1, 2025.
- Demo day and selection of 3 winners: February 4, 2026.
How to Apply
Applications are now open and can be submitted through the official competition website.
The deadline to apply is November 13, 2025.
Apply Here for the StartSmart Competition.
About the Organizer
StartSmart Competition is a Saudi annual entrepreneurship challenge launched in 2016 and supported by the Community Jameel Saudi Foundation. It focuses on empowering entrepreneurs with bold AI-driven ideas and strengthens the local entrepreneurship ecosystem.
Learn More: StartSmart Competition
