In a move reflecting the deepening ties between the Indian and Saudi innovation ecosystems, Indian seed-stage accelerator India Accelerator has announced a $15 million fund to facilitate the expansion of Indian startups into the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. The initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals of fostering a technologically advanced economy.
This expansion is supported by Saudi Arabia’s National Technology Development Program (NTDP) through its “Accelerators Enablement” initiative, which is designed to attract top-tier global accelerators, transfer expertise, and connect startups with investment and regulatory opportunities within the Kingdom.
A Bridge to the Saudi Market
The new fund will concentrate on startups operating in high-growth sectors, including Artificial Intelligence, Sustainability, Electric Mobility, PropTech, and DeepTech. Entrepreneurs selected for the program will receive a comprehensive support package that includes funding, regulatory guidance, and assistance in building local partnerships.
The program will also facilitate access to local investors and business networks inside Saudi Arabia to ensure a smoother market entry.
India Accelerator plans to onboard 8 to 10 startups in its first cohort, scheduled to launch in March 2026. The application window is set to open on December 8, 2025, and will close on February 28, 2026.
Strengthening Saudi-Indian Innovation Ties
Ashish Bhatia, Founder of India Accelerator, highlighted the Kingdom’s growing prominence in the global innovation landscape. “Saudi Arabia has become one of the most forward-looking innovation markets globally,” Bhatia stated. He noted that the partnership with NTDP provides a “structured and reliable pathway” for Indian companies looking to scale in the Kingdom, underscoring the accelerator’s commitment to cross-border growth.
Ibrahim Neyaz, CEO of the NTDP, emphasized the advanced nature of both the Saudi and Indian startup ecosystems. He explained that the collaboration with India Accelerator “opens new channels for Indian entrepreneurs to cooperate with Saudi partners and benefit from the growing investment and technological environment in the Kingdom.”
Expanding Regional Footprint
This initiative is expected to significantly enhance India Accelerator’s presence across the Gulf region, solidifying its role as a global accelerator connecting emerging markets with regional growth platforms.
The move also serves as another key indicator of the increasing interest from international accelerators and investment funds in the Saudi market, widely seen as a primary gateway for expansion across the Middle East.
About India Accelerator
India Accelerator is a seed-stage accelerator program that provides startups with mentorship, network access, and capital. As the only GAN-partnered and SEBI-registered accelerator in India, it helps early-stage technology companies grow from the ideation phase to becoming venture-funded enterprises.
Source: Arab Founders
