Saudi Arabia’s King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), in partnership with Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB), has completed the ninth cohort of its TAQADAM Startup Accelerator, granting more than $1 million in follow-on, non-dilutive funding to the program’s top-performing companies. The six-month accelerator culminated in a final showcase where 10 startups were selected to receive an additional $100,000 each to scale their businesses.
Quick Facts
- Over $1M awarded in non-dilutive funding.
- 20 startups from 13 countries participated.
- Top 10 startups secured $100,000 each.
A Global Cohort With a Saudi Launchpad
The ninth cohort showcased TAQADAM’s international reach, attracting 20 startups from 13 countries to Saudi Arabia. All participating companies initially received $40,000 in non-dilutive funding upon joining the program.
The accelerator provides founders with mentorship, training, and access to KAUST’s extensive research and development infrastructure, creating a structured pathway to commercialization in sectors like AI, healthcare, construction, manufacturing, and sustainability.
Deep Tech and AI Take Center Stage
The final funding round highlights a strong focus on AI and deep tech solutions, reflecting a key trend in Saudi Arabia’s innovation ecosystem. The winning startups are developing platforms aimed at transforming industries from hospitality and manufacturing to healthcare and e-commerce.
The 10 startups receiving the $100,000 in follow-on funding are:
- bellboy: An AI platform automating guest interactions and operations for the hospitality industry.
- Scigeniq: An AI-powered SaaS platform for managing manufacturing operations in regulated sectors like pharma and food.
- Aya: An AI platform analyzing market trends to help fashion producers match manufacturing with demand.
- Atomica AI: Digital AI solutions for managing dental treatment pathways.
- myAlice: An e-commerce AI platform designed to help businesses recover revenue and enhance customer experience.
- Relocal: A platform connecting global talent with the healthcare sector to solve workforce shortages.
- TileGreen: A company that converts plastic waste into sustainable building materials.
- InnoTech: A startup providing 3D printing solutions with low-carbon concrete for construction.
- Qubit: An AI-powered platform for integrating and managing enterprise data.
- VitruvianMD: AI applications built to improve the accuracy of IVF decisions and support clinicians.
Fueling Vision 2030’s Innovation Goals
TAQADAM is a core component of KAUST’s strategy to convert technological research into market-ready businesses. The partnership with SAB provides the financial backing and industry connections necessary to bridge the gap between early-stage development and commercial deployment.
By attracting both local and international founders, the accelerator directly supports the economic diversification and knowledge-based economy goals of Saudi Vision 2030. The program is strengthening its role as a key engine for producing high-impact startups and positioning the Kingdom as a hub for global talent.
About TAQADAM
The TAQADAM Startup Accelerator is an early-stage program launched by King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in partnership with Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB). It provides global startups with non-dilutive funding, mentorship, and access to advanced technological infrastructure to help them build and scale their businesses in Saudi Arabia and beyond.
Source: Arab Founders
