King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and Qassim University have announced a new partnership for the “Ibtekar 5 Incubator” program, a joint effort to bolster Saudi Arabia’s innovation ecosystem. The collaboration aims to equip innovators and entrepreneurs with the resources needed to transform their ideas into commercially viable projects with economic impact.
Quick Facts
- A strategic partnership between KAUST and Qassim University.
- The program aims to support 40 new startups.
- KAUST will host an intensive five-day bootcamp in 2026.
A Strategic University Collaboration to Fuel Saudi Talent
This partnership merges KAUST’s advanced research and innovation environment with Qassim University’s experience in organizing and managing the incubator program. The collaboration is designed to create a powerful synergy between Saudi universities, focusing on developing national talent and providing broader opportunities for students, innovators, and entrepreneurs across the Kingdom.
KAUST will play a key role by hosting an intensive training camp, providing its expertise and facilities to help participants develop their concepts into functional prototypes. This hands-on approach complements Qassim University’s leadership in managing the program’s various tracks, reinforcing the support structure for local talent.
Inside the Ibtekar 5 Bootcamp
As part of the incubator’s third phase, KAUST is set to host a five-day intensive training bootcamp from June 28 to July 2, 2026. The camp is specifically for entrepreneurs and innovators selected from the program’s earlier hackathon stage.
The intensive program will provide participants with specialized knowledge, tools, and mentorship to refine their ideas. Through direct workshops, advisory sessions, and practical challenges, attendees will strengthen their skills in design thinking and problem-solving, with a core focus on building applicable prototypes. The incubator’s training activities will be spread across three locations: KAUST, King Abdullah City for Atomic and Renewable Energy, and Qassim University.
The fifth edition of the incubator has set ambitious goals, targeting over 350 participants. The multi-stage program will include more than 24 intensive workshops designed to support 140 entrepreneurial projects and ultimately empower 40 new startups.
About Ibtekar 5 Incubator
The Ibtekar 5 Incubator is a comprehensive, five-stage program led by Qassim University in partnership with key Saudi institutions like KAUST. It is designed to foster innovation and entrepreneurship within the Kingdom by providing a structured pathway for innovators to develop their ideas, build prototypes, and launch new companies.
Source: Al Yaum
