Money20/20 Middle East is inviting fintech startups and scaleups to its program in Riyadh, offering direct access to investors, a dedicated exhibition space, and a chance to compete for a $400,000 prize pool. This program is designed to connect founders with the people who fund, partner, and build the future of finance.
At a Glance
- Opportunity Type: Program and Pitch Competition
- For: Early-stage and Growth-stage Fintechs
- Key Benefits: Investor matchmaking, $400K prize pool, Exhibition space, Networking
- Application Deadline: Early bird rates close May 15
- Location: Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Program and Competition Overview
The Money20/20 Middle East Startup & Scaleup Program is purpose-built to put fintech founders on the show floor in front of over 600 investors across 11 sectors. It provides early-stage and growth-stage companies with direct access to investors, curated matchmaking, and a stage to share their story, opportunities that are not available with a standard ticket.
Key Benefits
- Exclusive Investor Matchmaking: Book 1:1 meetings with investors, facilitated by a dedicated concierge team.
- MoneySurge Pitch Competition: Gain eligibility to pitch for a $400,000 prize pool on the Main Stage with no equity strings attached.
- Venturescape & Power Hours: Get invite-only access to meet with banks, regulators, government entities, and the region’s top investors.
- Founder Bootcamps & Clinics: Attend expert-led sessions on regulation, fundraising, hiring, and regional expansion.
- Visibility & Lead Generation: Get your company profile featured on the event app, in the startup directory sent to all investors, and in a social media spotlight.
- Exhibition Space: Secure a dedicated Startup Pod or Scaleup Kiosk to showcase your product on the show floor.
Eligibility Criteria
- Fintech Startups: Early-stage fintech companies looking for a platform to showcase their product, meet investors, and secure deals.
- Scaleups: Growth-stage fintech companies seeking priority matchmaking, confirmed investor introductions, and access to exclusive roundtable dialogues.
MoneySurge Pitch Competition & Prizes
The program includes exclusive access to MoneySurge, the region’s most prestigious fintech pitch competition. Twenty-five selected founders will pitch on the main stage for a share of the $400,000 prize pool, with zero equity taken.
- $200,000: Best In Show
- $100,000: Fintech For Good
- $100,000: Fintech To Watch
How to Apply
Founders can apply for a Startup Pod or a Scaleup Kiosk through the official application form. Early bird rates close on May 15, and Scaleup Kiosk spots are limited to 30.
Apply here for the Startup & Scaleup Program.
About Money20/20 Middle East
Money20/20 is the world’s leading platform for premium content, deal-making and networking across the global money ecosystem.
Source: Money20/20 Middle East – Startup & Scaleup Application 2026
