In a strategic move to enhance Saudi Arabia’s tourism ecosystem, the Tourism Development Fund (TDF) has officially launched its “Tourism Growth Hackathons and Bootcamps” program in Al-Ahsa. This initiative aims to establish the region as a new hub for innovation and entrepreneurship, empowering local talent to transform promising ideas into sustainable tourism ventures aligned with Vision 2030.
A Strategic Push for Regional Tourism
The program was unveiled during an open meeting hosted by the Al-Ahsa Chamber of Commerce and organized by TDF Grow, the fund’s non-financial arm, under the patronage of the Al-Ahsa Development Authority. The event attracted significant attention from public and private sector leaders, including entrepreneurs, innovators, and officials, reflecting a unified commitment to advancing the region’s tourism landscape. This collaborative effort is designed to create a fertile ground for new projects that leverage Al-Ahsa’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
Cultivating Local Innovation
The inaugural edition of the program in Al-Ahsa has already attracted approximately 50 participants. The initiative provides a comprehensive and interactive environment that combines intensive training, expert mentorship, and technical support. The core objective is to guide entrepreneurs in refining their concepts into viable, early-stage business models. A key component of the program is offering direct networking opportunities with investors and enabling financial institutions, bridging the critical gap between ideation and funding.
Fostering a Nationwide Ecosystem
This local program is part of a broader national strategy by TDF Grow, which has already supported approximately 9,000 entrepreneurs and around 100 startups and SMEs across the Kingdom. The “Tourism Growth Hackathons and Bootcamps” is one of three primary tracks recently launched by the TDF to support entrepreneurs, alongside the “Tourism Growth Incubator” and the “Tourism Growth Accelerator.” These programs collectively aim to enhance the competitiveness and economic impact of tourism-focused enterprises throughout Saudi Arabia.
About The Tourism Development Fund
The Tourism Development Fund (TDF) was established in 2020 with a capital of SAR 15 billion to drive the growth of Saudi Arabia’s tourism sector. The fund empowers private sector investors by providing financial and non-financial support for tourism projects across the Kingdom. By forging partnerships between public and private sectors, TDF plays a crucial role in realizing the tourism-related objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
Source: Alyaum
