The Biban 2025 forum, organized by Saudi Arabia’s General Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises, Monsha’at, has facilitated investment deals worth a total of SAR 3.8 million (approximately $1.01 million) for eight fintech startups. The funding was announced on the second day of the major entrepreneurial event in Riyadh.
The Investors Arena Deal Flow
The investments were finalized during the “Investors Arena,” a flagship segment of the forum where entrepreneurs pitch directly to a panel of investors and industry experts. A total of 18 startups presented their innovative business models, resulting in 19 separate investment pledges before the eight final deals were confirmed.
This dynamic activity underscores the growing vitality of Saudi Arabia’s venture capital sector and the increasing sophistication of business models developed by local startups.
A Catalyst for Saudi’s VC Ecosystem
The success of the Investors Arena reflects the significant development of the Kingdom’s venture financing landscape. This progress is a direct result of initiatives aligned with Saudi Vision 2030, which aims to bolster the SME sector and foster a culture of innovation to diversify the national economy.
The forum provides a critical platform that bridges the gap between promising entrepreneurs and strategic capital, enabling startups to secure funding and improve their investment readiness.
More Than Just Funding
Biban 2025, held under the theme “A Global Destination for Opportunities,” extends far beyond investment pitching. The four-day event at the Riyadh Front Exhibition & Convention Center serves as a comprehensive ecosystem hub.
The forum hosts over 85 specialized workshops led by local and international experts, covering topics from finance and marketing to digital transformation and global expansion. With more than 1,000 exhibitors and 200 speakers from over 150 countries, the event solidifies its position as a global platform for innovators, investors, and policymakers to drive economic growth and entrepreneurship in the Kingdom.
About Biban
Biban is an annual forum organized by Monsha’at, designed to be one of the largest events for SMEs and entrepreneurs in the region. It provides an interactive platform that connects business owners and investors to showcase innovative solutions, facilitate direct meetings, and create opportunities for financing and strategic partnerships. The forum plays a crucial role in empowering startups, enhancing their investment readiness, and helping them understand local and global market trends.
Source: Makkah Newspaper
