The second edition of the Sunbulah accelerator for startups in the agricultural and food technology sectors has concluded with a high-profile ceremony in Paris, France. The event, themed “From Riyadh to Paris,” showcased 13 innovative startups from eight countries and was attended by key figures from Saudi Arabia’s innovation ecosystem, including the CEO of the Agricultural Development Fund (ADF), Munir bin Fahd Al-Sahli.
By The Numbers
- Cohort: 2nd Edition
- Startups Graduated: 13
- Countries Represented: 8
- Sectors: AgriTech and FoodTech
A Global Stage for AgriTech Innovation
The closing ceremony in Paris served as a platform to introduce the cohort’s innovative startups to a global audience and highlight the initial investments they have attracted. The event underscores a growing trend of MENA-based accelerators providing international exposure to their portfolio companies to foster growth and collaboration.
ADF’s Strategic Role in Fostering Entrepreneurship
During the event, ADF’s CEO Munir bin Fahd Al-Sahli emphasized the fund’s pivotal role as a key enabler for entrepreneurial solutions that address challenges in environmental sustainability, natural resources, and food security. He highlighted the ADF’s commitment to being a strategic partner and supporter for entrepreneurs through its dedicated financing program for innovative startups, which aims to bolster the Kingdom’s agricultural sector.
Building International Bridges
The finale also included strategic meetings between the ADF’s leadership and the founders of the participating startups. Furthermore, visits were conducted with several specialized institutes, companies, and investment funds in France to discuss collaboration, investment opportunities, and potential pathways for the startups’ growth and expansion. These discussions focused on finding solutions for environmental sustainability and enhancing food and water security.
About the Sunbulah Accelerator
The Sunbulah accelerator is a specialized program focused on nurturing and scaling early-stage companies in the AgriTech and FoodTech domains. The initiative aims to find and support innovative solutions to critical challenges related to environmental sustainability and food security, thereby fostering the growth of entrepreneurship within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
Looking Ahead
The conclusion of Sunbulah’s second cohort in an international hub like Paris is a strategic move designed to empower the participating startups. By providing exposure to different business environments and facilitating connections with international partners, the program aims to accelerate the growth of its portfolio companies and reinforce the Kingdom’s commitment to driving innovation in vital global sectors.
Source: Al Madina
