In a strategic move to cultivate a globally competitive film industry, the Saudi Film Commission has announced the launch of a new business accelerator program. The initiative is designed to support and empower Saudi entrepreneurs, creative talents, and emerging startups within the film sector, aligning with the ambitious goals of Saudi Vision 2030.
A Strategic Push for a Competitive Film Industry
The accelerator’s launch marks a significant milestone in the Kingdom’s cultural and economic transformation. Since the reopening of cinemas in 2017, Saudi Arabia’s film sector has experienced rapid growth, driven by strong public interest and unprecedented government support. This new initiative builds on that momentum, aiming to create a sustainable and integrated ecosystem that not only showcases international films but also champions the production of local content that resonates with both domestic and global audiences.
Comprehensive Support for Film Entrepreneurs
The program offers an intensive and integrated curriculum tailored to the needs of filmmakers at every stage. Participants will gain access to professional mentorship from industry experts, specialized workshops covering critical areas like screenwriting, production, marketing, and distribution, and a stimulating collaborative environment. A key feature of the accelerator is providing unique opportunities for promising projects to be pitched directly to a network of local and international investors, opening up new avenues for funding and production.
Fostering a Regional Creative Hub
The initiative is expected to have a profound impact on the creative landscape. Locally, it will contribute to job creation across various technical and artistic fields and strengthen the creative economy as a vital component of economic diversification. Regionally, the accelerator aims to solidify the Kingdom’s position as a leading hub for the film industry, attracting talent and investment from across the MENA region and beyond.
In a statement on the launch, Abdullah Al-Ayyaf Al-Qahtani, CEO of the Film Commission, emphasized that the accelerator represents a pivotal step in developing the Kingdom’s film ecosystem. He highlighted the Commission’s commitment to empowering national talent and providing a supportive environment to transform creative ideas into tangible projects that contribute to the sector’s growth and international presence. The ultimate goal, he noted, is to build a sustainable, entrepreneurial ecosystem driven by innovation and knowledge.
About The Film Commission
The Saudi Film Commission was established by the Ministry of Culture to lead the development of the film industry in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The commission is responsible for creating a thriving ecosystem for local and international filmmakers, promoting Saudi culture through cinema, and establishing the country as a world-class film production center in line with Saudi Vision 2030.
Source: News50
