King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), Saudi Arabia’s national science agency, has detailed the scale of its national ecosystem designed to empower young innovators and researchers. Timed with World Youth Skills Day, the organization revealed that its initiatives now involve over 3,000 researchers and specialists and provide direct support to more than 90 deep tech startups, reinforcing the Kingdom’s push towards a knowledge-based economy.
Quick Facts
- Over 3,000 researchers and innovators engaged
- More than 90 deep tech startups supported
- The Garage platform has graduated over 600 tech startups
From Lab to Market
KACST outlined its strategy of creating an integrated system that connects its national laboratories with government bodies, the private sector, and investors. The primary goal is to accelerate the commercialization of research outcomes and scientific breakthroughs, turning them into products and services with tangible economic and social impact.
This approach is central to advancing the Kingdom’s research, development, and innovation framework. By building a supportive environment for advanced technologies, KACST is directly contributing to the economic diversification goals outlined in Saudi Vision 2030.
Building Future Skills
A key component of this ecosystem is the “32 Academy,” which focuses on developing national talent. The academy offers specialized training programs in research, development, and innovation, and has already served more than 21,700 beneficiaries. These programs are tailored to equip the national workforce with skills needed for rapidly growing technology and science sectors.
The Garage: A Launchpad for Companies
KACST also highlighted the role of its specialized platform, “The Garage,” in the startup journey. The Garage provides entrepreneurs and tech startups with critical support, including mentorship, training, and assistance in developing business models. It also offers consulting in marketing, HR, and tech development, while connecting promising projects with investors.
The platform has successfully graduated over 600 technology startups, demonstrating its effectiveness in transforming innovative ideas into value-adding companies that strengthen the national economy and position the Kingdom as a regional hub for innovation.
About King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST)
King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) is a Saudi Arabian government organization responsible for promoting science and technology in the Kingdom. It manages a national ecosystem that includes research, talent development, and startup support platforms to drive a knowledge-based economy in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
Source: Al Arabiya
