Top 20 Startup Competitions in Saudi Arabia You Should Enter

 Top 20 Startup Competitions in Saudi Arabia You Should Enter

Saudi Arabia is rapidly emerging as a vibrant hub for startups and innovation. With a strong push from the government and a burgeoning entrepreneurial ecosystem, 2024 is set to be an exciting year for entrepreneurs in the Kingdom. If you’re looking to take your startup to the next level, entering startup competitions can be a fantastic way to gain exposure, connect with investors, and secure funding. Here’s a roundup of the top 20 startup competitions in Saudi Arabia that you should consider entering .

1. Saudi Startup Competition

What it is: One of the largest and most prestigious startup competitions in Saudi Arabia, focusing on a variety of industries.

Why enter: Offers substantial prize money, mentorship from top industry leaders, and access to a vast network of investors.

2. Misk Innovation Summit

What it is: A flagship event hosted by the Misk Foundation, focusing on innovation and entrepreneurship.

Why enter: Gain exposure to leading investors, participate in high-profile panels, and receive invaluable feedback from industry experts.

Website: Misk Innovation Summit

3. STC Startup Accelerator

What it is: An accelerator program run by Saudi Telecom Company (STC) to support tech-focused startups.

Why enter: Access to mentorship from STC’s network, potential funding opportunities, and integration with STC’s tech ecosystem.

Website: STC Startup Accelerator

4. King Abdullah Economic City (KAEC) Startup Challenge

What it is: A competition aimed at identifying and supporting innovative startups within KAEC.

Why enter: Opportunity to receive support from one of the Kingdom’s most dynamic economic zones and connect with influential business leaders.

Website: KAEC Startup Challenge

5. Arabnet Riyadh

What it is: A major digital event and competition focused on startups in the tech and digital sectors.

Why enter: Network with regional tech giants, pitch to potential investors, and showcase your startup to a broad audience.

Website: Arabnet Riyadh

6. Qiddiya Innovation Challenge

What it is: A competition targeting startups that align with Qiddiya’s vision of entertainment, culture, and lifestyle.

Why enter: Potential to partner with Qiddiya’s ambitious projects and gain visibility in one of the Kingdom’s most exciting developments.

Website: Qiddiya Innovation Challenge

7. Saudi Aramco Entrepreneurship Center (Wa’ed) Pitch

What it is: A competition organized by Wa’ed to support and promote innovative startups in various sectors.

Why enter: Access to Aramco’s vast network, potential funding, and support for scaling your startup.

Website: Wa’ed Pitch

8. The Global Startup Competition

What it is: A global competition with a Saudi chapter focusing on high-growth startups.

Why enter: Connect with international investors and mentors, and gain global exposure for your startup.

Website: Global Startup Competition

9. Riyadh Techstars Accelerator

What it is: A startup accelerator program with a focus on tech innovations.

Why enter: Benefit from mentorship, networking, and investment opportunities in one of the region’s leading accelerator programs.

Website: Techstars Riyadh

10. The Red Sea Fund

What it is: A fund dedicated to supporting startups involved in the Red Sea Project.

Why enter: Gain funding and support from one of Saudi Arabia’s most high-profile tourism and real estate developments.

11. Entrepreneurship World Cup (EWC) - Saudi Arabia

What it is: A global competition with local chapters, including Saudi Arabia, that supports entrepreneurs from various sectors.

Why enter: Opportunity to compete on a global stage, gain recognition, and connect with investors from around the world.

Website: Entrepreneurship World Cup

12. Saudi Venture Capital Conference

What it is: A competition held in conjunction with a major venture capital conference in Saudi Arabia.

Why enter: Network with leading venture capitalists, pitch your startup to potential investors, and gain valuable feedback.

Website: Saudi Venture Capital Conference

13. Misk Global Forum

What it is: A high-profile forum organized by the Misk Foundation, including a competition for innovative startups.

Why enter: Connect with global leaders, gain international exposure, and receive feedback from influential mentors.

Website: Misk Global Forum

14. Saudi Innovation Lab

What it is: A competition focused on startups with innovative solutions in various industries.

Why enter: Receive mentorship, access to resources, and potential funding from one of Saudi Arabia’s leading innovation labs.

Website: Saudi Innovation Lab

15. Startup Saudi Arabia

What it is: A nationwide competition aimed at discovering and supporting emerging startups.

Why enter: Gain national recognition, access to a broad network, and potential funding opportunities.

Website: Startup Saudi Arabia

16. Jeddah Business Expo

What it is: A business expo that includes a startup competition for emerging entrepreneurs.

Why enter: Showcase your startup at a major business event in Jeddah, connect with industry leaders, and gain exposure.

17. Saudi Tech Innovators Awards

What it is: An awards competition focusing on technological innovations and startups.

Why enter: Receive recognition for your tech innovations, and connect with a network of tech enthusiasts and investors.

18. Saudi Health Startup Challenge

What it is: A competition dedicated to health tech startups and innovations in the healthcare sector.

Why enter: Gain exposure in the healthcare sector, connect with health industry leaders, and receive support for scaling your startup.

Website: Saudi Health Startup Challenge

19. Future Investment Initiative (FII)

What it is: A global investment forum that includes a startup competition as part of its agenda.

Why enter: Network with international investors, gain exposure to global markets, and showcase your startup on a prestigious platform.

Website: Future Investment Initiative

20. Saudi Women Entrepreneurs Network (SWEN) Pitch

What it is: A competition aimed at supporting female entrepreneurs in Saudi Arabia.

Why enter: Gain support, mentorship, and visibility specifically targeted at women-led startups.

Website: SWEN Pitch

Conclusion

Entering startup competitions is a strategic way to advance your business, gain valuable feedback, and secure crucial funding. The top 20 competitions listed above offer diverse opportunities for startups across various sectors in Saudi Arabia. Whether you’re focused on tech, health, or social impact, these competitions can provide the exposure and resources you need to scale your startup in 2024. Embrace these opportunities, prepare thoroughly, and take your startup journey to new heights!