King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB) have concluded the ninth cohort of the TAQADAM Startup Accelerator, capping off a six-month program designed to get early-stage companies market-ready. The program culminated in a showcase event where the top 10 startups were awarded additional funding to scale their operations.
Quick Facts
- 20 startups from 13 countries participated.
- $40,000 initial non-dilutive funding per startup.
- Top 10 startups secured an additional $100,000 each.
Spotlight on the $100,000 Winners
The cohort featured 20 startups from 12 different sectors, underscoring the program’s international reach. After an initial grant of $40,000 in non-dilutive funding for all participants, a final pitch day saw the top 10 companies secure an additional $100,000 each.
The winning startups are:
- bellboy: An AI platform for the hospitality sector that automates guest interactions and operational processes through voice and chat.
- Scigeniq: An AI-powered SaaS platform for managing manufacturing operations in regulated industries like pharmaceuticals and food.
- Aya: An AI-based platform that analyzes market trends to help fashion producers align manufacturing with actual demand.
- Atomica AI: Digital solutions using AI to manage dental treatment pathways.
- myAlice: An e-commerce platform using AI to help businesses recover revenue and improve the customer experience.
- Relocal: A platform connecting global talent with the healthcare sector to address workforce shortages.
- TileGreen: A company that converts plastic waste into sustainable building materials as an alternative to concrete.
- InnoTech: A startup providing 3D printing solutions with low-carbon concrete for construction and environmental projects.
- Qubit: An AI-powered data platform for integrating and managing enterprise data.
- VitruvianMD: AI applications designed to improve the accuracy of IVF decisions and support clinicians with data.
Connecting Global Innovation with the Saudi Ecosystem
The TAQADAM accelerator is a core component of KAUST’s strategy to translate research and innovation into commercially viable businesses. The partnership with SAB provides the financial backing and industry connections necessary to support founders, directly contributing to the economic diversification goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
The program offers a complete pathway for startups, from ideation to investment readiness, by combining financial support with access to KAUST’s advanced research and technical infrastructure. The final showcase event drew significant interest from investors and industry figures, signaling strong confidence in the high-potential startups emerging from the region.
About TAQADAM Accelerator
TAQADAM is a startup accelerator program run by King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) in partnership with Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB). The six-month program supports early-stage startups from around the world, providing mentorship, training, and non-dilutive funding to help them scale and enter the market. It is a key initiative for fostering innovation within the Saudi Arabian entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Source: Alestad
