# GulfPitch — every funding programme on the GCC map, in plain text

> 378 programmes across Qatar, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Kuwait, Oman and Bahrain. Every line comes from the programme’s own website or application form; each block names the primary source and the month it was last checked. Built 2026-10-16. Operator: Hilarion LLC (QFC No. 05218), Doha. https://gulfpitch.com

## Quick answers

- Open to founders from abroad — 66 of the 219 programmes with an application link say so on their own site (32 without conditions, 34 with a stated condition; 31 within a region; 19 require a local company; 16 nationals only; 87 not stated): https://gulfpitch.com/programs/international-founders/ — WISE EdTech Accelerator, 1957 Ventures, Al Dhow Capital, Alajlan Family Office, Alchemist Doha, AngelSpark, B Capital, CBB FinTech Regulatory Sandbox, CDL-Doha, DAAL Ventures, Disrupt.com, Dubai Future Foundation, Emirates NBD Innovation Fund, Fintactics Ventures, inspireU by stc, Keiretsu Forum MENA, Leo Capital, NEOV — NeoVentures (SNB), Newlab Riyadh — Mining Innovation Studio, Nour Nouf Ventures, Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), Qatar FinTech Hub Accelerator, QFC Digital Assets Lab, SandStorm VC, Sharjah Business Angels Network (SBAN), SIC - SIDF Investment Company, Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD), Speedinvest, Suhail Ventures, tali ventures, The Garage, VentureSouq (VSQ), Finspire, Omantel Innovation Labs, QSTP Incubation, Antler MENAP, Bahrain FinTech Bay, Bahrain Investment Market (BIM), Catalyst, CMA FinTech Lab (ExPermit), Endeavor MENA + Catalyst, Falak Flagship Program, Homegrown Ventures, Hub71, in5 Dubai, Intelak, KAUST Innovation Ventures, KAUST University, KDIPA, MASNA Ventures, MBRIF, MISA — Ministry of Investment, OQ Accelerator Programme (OQX), Oraseya Capital, Orbit Ventures (formerly Orbit Startups), Premium Residency — Entrepreneur Track, QCB FinTech Regulatory Sandbox, Scale7 — Creative and Cultural Industries Hub, Sheraa, Snoonu Startup Factory, Startup Qatar, Startup Qatar AI Compute Credits, Startup Qatar Investment Program, TAQADAM, The Utopia Studio, VMS
- No equity taken — 73 programmes whose own terms say so (the Cost line begins with “No equity”): https://gulfpitch.com/programs/no-equity/ — CDL-Doha, in5 Dubai, Intelak, Sheraa, TAQADAM, DIFC Innovation Hub — Fintech Accelerator, impactU by stc, Innovate for Bahrain (I4BH), Innovate For Tomorrow (Dubai Holding), startAD, TASMU Accelerator, KFAS Applied Research Grant, KFAS Young Researcher Grant, Cultural Development Fund (CDF), FinTech Development Grant (QFTH), Misk Foundation, NTDP — National Technology Development Program, RDIA — Saudi Innovation Grants, Tamkeen, TiE Women MENA, Zayed Sustainability Prize, Al Quoz Creative Entrepreneurship Competition (Dubai Culture), FoodTech Challenge (UAE), Qatar–Spain Innovation Program (QASIP), QRDI SBIG, QRDI Technology Development Grant (TDG), ROWAD Awards, WISE Prize for Education, CBB FinTech Regulatory Sandbox, CBK Wolooj Innovation Hub, CBK Wolooj Regulatory Sandbox, Central Bank of Oman — FinTech, CMA FinTech Lab (ExPermit), Invest Qatar, KDIPA, Knowledge Oasis Muscat, Masdar City Free Zone, Media City Qatar, MISA — Ministry of Investment, Premium Residency — Entrepreneur Track, Qatar Financial Centre (QFC), Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ), QCB FinTech Regulatory Sandbox, QFC Digital Assets Lab, SAMA FinTech Sandbox, SHIFT Innovation Center Riyadh, Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD), twofour54, UAE Golden Visa — Entrepreneur, ADGM, Bahrain EDB, CBUAE FinTech Sandbox, Cloud Computing SEZ, CMA FinTech Unit (Module 19), DIFC, Ministry of Commerce & Industry, MoIC Bahrain, Emirates Development Bank (EDB), Industrial Bank of Kuwait, Khalifa Fund, MBRIF, Mohammed Bin Rashid Fund for SME (The Fund), QDB Credit Guarantee Program (formerly Al-Dhameen), Riyadat - Women Business Finance Scheme, Ruwad — Sharjah Foundation to Support Pioneering Entrepreneurs, SIDF Promising Factories Initiative (soft loans), SME Fund (Bahrain), Social Development Bank (SDB), Amad for Entrepreneurs (alinma bank), Kafalah — SME Financing Guarantee Program, Fintech Saudi - Makken, Startup Qatar AI Compute Credits, KFAS Innovation Challenge
- Closing soon — 6 published deadlines, nearest first: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/closing-soon/ — Finspire closes 18 Oct 2026; WISE EdTech Accelerator closes 31 Oct 2026; QSTP Incubation closes 1 Nov 2026; KFAS Applied Research Grant closes 15 Nov 2026; KFAS Young Researcher Grant closes 15 Nov 2026; Omantel Innovation Labs closes 9 Jan 2027
- By type across the Gulf: Accelerators & incubators (67) https://gulfpitch.com/programs/accelerators/, VC funds & investors (126) https://gulfpitch.com/programs/vc-funds/, Grants & prizes (22) https://gulfpitch.com/programs/grants/, Government programmes (51) https://gulfpitch.com/programs/government/, Angel networks (20) https://gulfpitch.com/programs/angel-networks/, Corporate VCs (40) https://gulfpitch.com/programs/corporate-vc/, State equity (7) https://gulfpitch.com/programs/state-equity/, Loans & guarantees (22) https://gulfpitch.com/programs/loans/, Funds of funds (5) https://gulfpitch.com/programs/fund-of-funds/, Support programmes (18) https://gulfpitch.com/programs/support/
- By country: Saudi Arabia (122) https://gulfpitch.com/programs/saudi-arabia/, UAE (114) https://gulfpitch.com/programs/uae/, Qatar (65) https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qatar/, Kuwait (29) https://gulfpitch.com/programs/kuwait/, Oman (24) https://gulfpitch.com/programs/oman/, Bahrain (24) https://gulfpitch.com/programs/bahrain/

## Saudi Arabia — 122 programmes

### 500 Global Saudi
- Type: Accelerator + VC (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/500-global-saudi/
- Website: https://500.co/mena
- Apply: https://mena.aplica.500.co/
- What you get: Possible $100,000+ equity investment; $35,000 Phase 1 fee; 12-week Riyadh programme.
- Who can apply: MENA tech startups with an MVP and early traction; programme held in Riyadh.
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- From abroad: Within the region: Must be a tech startup with an MVP; Must be focused on/serving the MENA region — source: “Focused on the Middle Eastern and North African region (MENA)” (https://500.co/founders/mena/seed-accelerator)
- Status: Closed
- Summary: 500 Global's Saudi Arabia programme, incl. the Sanabil Accelerator by 500 Global, run in partnership with Sanabil Investments. The 10th batch of the Sanabil Accelerator selected nine companies from 735+ applications (500.co/mena).
- Eligibility: Tech startups with an MVP and early traction · MENA focus · 12-week programme in Riyadh across three phases
- Terms: Yes — equity stake
- Amount: $100,000+ investment · $35,000 per-startup programme fee (phase 1, excl. travel)
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Sanabil Investments, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://500.co/mena · checked October 2026

### Antler MENAP
- Type: Founder Residency + Pre-Seed VC (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/antler-menap/
- Website: https://www.antler.co/location/middle-east
- Apply: https://www.antler.co/apply
- What you get: $180,000 via SAFE for 11% equity, plus up to $320,000 uncapped follow-on.
- Who can apply: Pre-idea to pre-seed founders ready to build in MENAP.
- Cost: Equity — about 11% via SAFE
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Full-time, in-person residency in Dubai (Spring) or Riyadh (Fall); Founders arrange their own visas — source: “Founders are responsible for arranging and coordinating their own visas. Both Saudi Arabia and the UAE offer convenient tourist visa options for most nationalities - please check what the specific requirements are for your nationality.” (https://www.antler.co/location/middle-east)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Antler MENAP — 10-week full-time, in-person residency building companies from day zero (Riyadh in fall, Dubai in spring). Initial investment $180,000 via SAFE for 11%, with up to $320,000 in uncapped follow-on. MENAP relevance required; existing outside investors can reduce eligibility.
- Eligibility: Pre-idea to pre-seed founders ready to build in MENAP
- Terms: ~11% equity
- Amount: $180,000 via SAFE for 11% equity + up to $320,000 uncapped follow-on
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://www.antler.co/location/middle-east · checked October 2026

### CODE — Center of Digital Entrepreneurship
- Type: Government accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/code-center-of-digital-entrepreneurship/
- Website: https://mcit.gov.sa/code
- Apply: https://mcit.gov.sa/code
- What you get: Coworking spaces, business services, incubation and acceleration programmes.
- Who can apply: Registration forms are Arabic-only.
- Cost: Terms not published
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: MCIT's Center of Digital Entrepreneurship — coworking spaces, business services, incubation and acceleration programmes in one hub. Its own counters: 230 programmes delivered, 2,200 startups benefited, 54,000 programme and event beneficiaries, 183 investment rounds. Current programmes: Tech Founders, Incubation, CODE Nine 66 (games).
- Eligibility: Programme registration forms currently Arabic-only
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Not published — coworking, incubation and acceleration programmes
- Primary source: https://code.mcit.gov.sa/en/Code-Page/innovation-labs · checked October 2026

### EWAx Sedrah — Environment Accelerator
- Type: Government incubator (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/ewax-sedrah-environment-accelerator/
- Website: https://ewax.mewa.gov.sa/en/programs/2
- What you get: Support programme for environment, agriculture and water startups.
- Who can apply: Environment, agriculture and water-sector startups.
- Status: Closed
- Summary: MEWA EWAx accelerator for the environmental sector — air quality, waste management, meteorology, soil quality and desertification, water quality and biodiversity. Sister tracks: Sunbolah (agriculture and food) and Sahabah (water). EWAx site banner: registration for the 2026 EWAx startup accelerators has ended; the next window is not announced.
- Eligibility: Environment, agriculture and water sector startups
- Amount: Support programme — funding not published
- Primary source: https://ewax.mewa.gov.sa/en/programs/2 · checked October 2026

### Falak Flagship Program
- Type: Investment-backed accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/falak-flagship-program/
- Website: https://flagship.falak.sa/
- Apply: https://www.cognitoforms.com/Products5/_3XFlagshipProgramAICore2026
- What you get: Direct funding of up to SAR 375,000 plus soft landing and technical enablement.
- Who can apply: Core AI companies with a live product, Saudi-based or targeting Saudi Arabia.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — must be Saudi-based, or committed to expanding into/targeting the Saudi market (a 'Soft Landing to Saudi' track exists for companies establishing local operations) — source: “You're in Saudi or Targeting Saudi” (https://flagship.falak.sa/)
- Status: Dormant
- Summary: Investment-backed accelerator run by Falak, with NTDP as partner for the AI-core cohort. Direct funding of up to SAR 375,000, soft landing into Saudi Arabia including entity establishment and MISA registration, and technical enablement.
- Eligibility: Live product (MVP or beyond) with early signs of traction - a core AI company where AI is central and not a feature - Saudi-based or targeting the Saudi market - full-time founder
- Terms: Not published - the programme page states the funding but no stake
- Amount: Up to SAR 375,000 direct funding - equity taken not published
- Primary source: https://flagship.falak.sa/ · checked October 2026

### Finspire
- Type: Corporate accelerator (bank × tech valley) (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/finspire/
- Website: https://finspire.dtv.sa/
- Apply: https://form.jotform.com/Ventures_ventures/finspire
- Closes: 18 Oct 2026
- What you get: Up to SAR 100,000 development funding, earmarked rather than paid as cash.
- Who can apply: Saudi and international fintech founders with a working MVP, own IP and an in-house tech lead.
- Cost: Equity via SAFE, capped at 5%
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — International ventures selected for the program are expected to establish the appropriate Saudi legal presence; Finspire is not the right fit for ventures unable to commit to operating and scaling from Saudi Arabia; Finspire is not designed as a remote-only accelerator, and fully remote participation is not accepted — source: “Finspire is open to Saudi founders, international fintech teams, and KFUPM-affiliated founders” (https://finspire.dtv.sa/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Inaugural fintech venture-building and acceleration program by Saudi National Bank (SNB Group) and Dhahran Techno Valley. Twelve-week program followed by six months of incubation at DTV: a development budget of up to SAR 100,000 per venture (a ceiling, not an entitlement), in-kind support valued at up to SAR 100,000 (coaching, workspace, market access), expert mentorship from industry leaders and domain experts, direct access to SNB’s financial and industry experts, and a pilot pathway into the bank. Open to Saudi and international founders (visa and company-setup support) with a working MVP across four priority fintech domains; KFUPM-affiliated founders welcome.
- Eligibility: Saudi and international fintech founders · working MVP or validated technical architecture, past the idea stage · own IP and an in-house technical lead (no solo founders, no fully outsourced tech) · able to commit to operating and scaling from Saudi Arabia; no remote-only participation (programme centred in Dhahran)
- Terms: Minority equity via SAFE, capped at 5% (per the programme FAQ)
- Amount: Up to SAR 100,000 development funding (earmarked, not cash)
- Primary source: https://finspire.dtv.sa/ · checked October 2026

### Flat6Labs Riyadh
- Type: Seed accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/flat6labs-riyadh/
- Website: https://flat6labs.com/Location/ksa/
- Apply: https://flat6labs.com/apply-now/
- What you get: SAR 500K in cash seed funding plus SAR 2.4M in follow-on funding.
- Who can apply: Startups with high growth potential; applicants must reside in Saudi Arabia.
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- From abroad: Nationals or residents of Saudi Arabia — Applicants must be residing in any city in KSA — source: “Applicants must be residing in any city in KSA.” (https://flat6labs.com/program/riyadh-seed-program-page/)
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Flat6Labs Riyadh — 4-month seed programme backed by the Startup Seed Fund with SVC, Jada and RVC among investors. The site states the Riyadh Seed Program will provide more than 20 Saudi startups a year with seed funding over three years; all KSA programmes are marked NOT ACTIVE (Cycle 6 ran 15 Sep – 15 Dec 2025).
- Eligibility: Startups with high growth potential · founders fully dedicated to the 4-month programme · applicants must reside in a city in Saudi Arabia
- Terms: Yes — equity stake
- Amount: SAR 500K in cash seed funding · SAR 2,400,000 in follow-on funding (Riyadh Seed Program offer)
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://flat6labs.com/Location/ksa/ · checked October 2026

### GEA Entertainment Accelerator
- Type: Government sector accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/gea-entertainment-accelerator/
- Website: https://www.gea.gov.sa/initiatives/business-accelerator/
- What you get: 3-month accelerator with workshops, mentors, co-working and investor access; no direct funding.
- Who can apply: Entertainment-sector businesses operating with a Saudi commercial registration.
- Cost: Free to participate; no direct funding
- Status: Closed
- Summary: General Entertainment Authority sector accelerator for the Kingdom's entertainment industry. A 3-month programme in Riyadh with workshops, one-to-one expert sessions, co-working, an international trip and a closing pitch before investors.
- Eligibility: Entertainment-sector businesses operating with a Saudi commercial registration
- Terms: No direct funding — free to participate
- Amount: No direct funding · free to participate · access to investors and VC funds
- Primary source: https://www.gea.gov.sa/initiatives/business-accelerator/ · checked October 2026

### impactU by stc
- Type: Impact incubator (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/impactu-by-stc/
- Website: https://www.stc.com/en/sustainability/impact-u.html
- What you get: Impact incubation programme.
- Who can apply: Social and environmental impact startups.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- Status: Dormant
- Summary: stc's sustainability incubator, launched in 2019 to support social projects moving towards the Sustainable Development Goals and to promote social entrepreneurship in areas such as the environment, health and education.
- Eligibility: Social and environmental impact startups
- Amount: Terms not published
- Primary source: https://www.stc.com/en/sustainability/impact-u.html · checked October 2026

### inspireU by stc
- Type: Corporate accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/inspireu-by-stc/
- Website: https://www.stc.com/en/inspire-u/apply-now.html
- Apply: https://inspireu.ncubex.com
- What you get: General track (3 months, grants) or Advanced track (6 months, invitation-only, funding).
- Who can apply: Early-stage ICT and digital startups; more mature startups by invitation.
- Cost: Terms not published — grants listed as benefits
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Saudi Arabia — source: “Beyond the GCC, startups from around the world have found in our programs a powerful launchpad into Saudi Arabia, where international founders are equipped to make their mark.” (https://www.stc.com/en/inspire-u/apply-now.html)
- Status: Active
- Summary: The first ICT accelerator in Saudi Arabia, launched by stc group in 2015 — 130+ startups accelerated. Two tracks: a 3-month General track and a 6-month Advanced track (by invitation only). Programme cadence runs through the ncubex portal (login required).
- Eligibility: Early-stage startups (General program, through application); more mature startups (Advanced program, by invitation only)
- Terms: Not published — grants (General program) and funding (Advanced program)
- Amount: Grants (General, 3 months) · funding (Advanced, 6 months, by invitation) · amounts not published
- Primary source: https://www.stc.com/en/inspire-u/apply-now.html · checked October 2026

### KAUST ScaleX
- Type: University accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/kaust-scalex/
- Website: https://scalex.kaust.edu.sa/
- What you get: Lab access, faculty consultation and market-entry support in Saudi Arabia; no direct funding.
- Who can apply: Series B (or equivalent) tech startups, 2+ years old, with no Saudi HQ or regional office.
- Cost: Free to apply; no direct funding
- Status: Closed
- Summary: KAUST's soft-landing programme for global tech startups. Lab access, faculty consultation, Saudi market pathway.
- Eligibility: Series B funding or equivalent · established 2+ years · commercial-ready · no existing HQ or regional office in Saudi Arabia · sectors: AI/ML, AgriTech, Biotech/HealthTech, Cybersecurity, Renewable Energy, Robotics
- Terms: No direct funding — in-kind scale-up support; applying is free
- Amount: Lab access + faculty consultation (no direct funding)
- Primary source: https://scalex.kaust.edu.sa/ · checked October 2026

### NEOM Level Up (Gaming Accelerator)
- Type: Game studio accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/neom-level-up-gaming-accelerator/
- Website: https://neomlevelup.game/
- Apply: https://register.neomlevelup.game/
- What you get: Funding for gaming studios.
- Who can apply: Saudi-based game development studios.
- From abroad: A company in Saudi Arabia is required — Must be a Saudi-based game development studio; By the Acceleration Phase must have LLC commercial registration, VAT registration, and a business bank account — source: “Open to Saudi-based game development studios” (https://neomlevelup.game/)
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Gaming accelerator by NEOM with DigiPen Institute of Technology — over 12 months, selected Saudi-based studios receive funding, expert mentorship and industry connections (funding amount not published). Performance-based model: a Program Readiness Phase, then a Studio Acceleration Phase with cash incentive payments. Cohort 3 (five studios) announced January 2026; registration currently closed.
- Eligibility: Saudi-based game development teams
- Amount: Funding — amount not published
- Primary source: https://neomlevelup.game/ · checked October 2026

### Newlab Riyadh — Mining Innovation Studio
- Type: Government innovation studio (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/newlab-riyadh-mining-innovation-studio/
- Website: https://newlab.com/locations/riyadh
- Apply: https://newlab.com/ksamining
- What you get: Targeted investment.
- Who can apply: Tech companies or established mining companies.
- Cost: Targeted investments
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Saudi Arabia — source: “This public-private initiative aims to attract top talent and startups from around the world to develop, test, and scale new technologies in KSA” (https://newlab.com/ksamining)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture studio at Newlab Riyadh focused on mining innovation — run by Newlab with partners NIDLP, the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources, Maaden, ESNAD and SGS (formal launch announced at FMF 2025). Open call for tech companies and established mining players; Newlab Riyadh's wider platform also covers energy, logistics and advanced manufacturing.
- Eligibility: Tech company or established mining company
- Amount: Targeted investments — terms not published
- Primary source: https://newlab.com/locations/riyadh · checked October 2026

### Orbit Ventures (formerly Orbit Startups)
- Type: Accelerator + VC (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/orbit-ventures-formerly-orbit-startups/
- Website: https://orbitventures.com/
- Apply: https://orbitventures.com/apply-to-sanabil-accelerator-by-orbit/
- What you get: $80,000–$100,000 invested in every startup over a 4-month batch.
- Who can apply: Tech startups with an MVP building a MENA nexus via Saudi Arabia; founders full-time.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Startups aim to build a nexus in MENA through Saudi Arabia; Founders required to be present in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia during Weeks 1-4 and Weeks 8-12 of the 4-month batch — source: “Founders are required to be present in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia during Weeks 1-4 and Weeks 8-12 of the accelerator batch.” (https://orbitventures.com/sanabil-accelerator-by-orbit/)
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Global emerging-markets accelerator and VC (Orbit Ventures; Orbit Startups is its trademark). Runs the Sanabil Accelerator by Orbit with PIF-owned Sanabil Investments — a 4-month pre-seed programme for tech startups from MVP to growth stage, investing USD 80,000–100,000 in every startup. Batch 4 Demo Day: 9 Sep 2026 in Riyadh; Batch 5 applications closed 1 October 2026, next batch starts October 2026.
- Eligibility: Tech startups with an MVP that want to build a nexus in MENA through Saudi Arabia · MVP to growth stage · founders full-time and all founders attend every session · in Riyadh for weeks 1–4 and 8–12
- Terms: Yes — equity stake
- Amount: $80,000–100,000 invested in every startup · 4-month batches
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Sanabil Investments
- Primary source: https://orbitventures.com/ · checked October 2026

### Princess Nourah University – University Startup Accelerator
- Type: University startup accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/princess-nourah-university-university-startup-accelerator/
- Website: https://pnu.edu.sa/en/Centers/InnovationAndEntrepreneurship/Advertisement/Pages/Announcement.aspx
- Apply: https://www.monshaat.gov.sa/ar/form/Acc-University-Startups
- What you get: University accelerator with financial and in-kind grants; PNU invests in top startups.
- Who can apply: Early-stage startups that are ready to grow; Riyadh programme.
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Accelerator of Princess Nourah bint Abdulrahman University in Riyadh for early-stage startups that are ready to grow. It offers financial and in-kind grants, and the university invests in the most promising startups. Registration runs through a Monsha'at form linked from the university's announcement; grant amounts are not published.
- Eligibility: Early-stage startups that are ready to grow
- Amount: Financial and in-kind grants · amounts not published
- Primary source: https://pnu.edu.sa/en/Centers/InnovationAndEntrepreneurship/Advertisement/Pages/Announcement.aspx

### SDAIA GAIA Program
- Type: Government AI Accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sdaia-gaia-program/
- Website: https://sdaia.gov.sa/en/Investment/Pages/BusinessAccelerators.aspx
- What you get: A 10-week generative-AI accelerator with SAR 150,000 in grants from NTDP.
- Who can apply: Tech startups building with AI, local and international.
- Status: Dormant
- Summary: SDAIA’s Generative AI Accelerator — a 10-week programme that gives tech startups AI tools and technologies to develop initial models and solutions, prepare them for market launch and grow. Participants get guidance from SDAIA’s technical and legislative experts and from mentors at global AI and business companies, exclusive access to advanced AI technologies from global tech companies, financial grants totalling SAR 150,000 provided by the National Technology Development Program (NTDP), and an opportunity to obtain investment and logistical support. SDAIA counts 49 startups graduated from the accelerator; its page names no current intake.
- Eligibility: Tech startups building with AI; SDAIA’s accelerators build a community of local and international data and AI startups
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Financial grants totalling SAR 150,000 (provided by NTDP) · opportunity to obtain investment
- Primary source: https://sdaia.gov.sa/en/Investment/Pages/BusinessAccelerators.aspx · checked October 2026

### TAQADAM
- Type: University accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/taqadam/
- Website: https://taqadam.kaust.edu.sa/
- Apply: https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/17Cg3qi_rQWyU_fV8Fzg99wezi8e
- What you get: Up to $140K: $40K base grant plus up to $100K follow-on for top teams.
- Who can apply: Teams of 2+ founders, any industry, Saudi or international, planning KSA expansion within a year.
- Cost: No equity — grant
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — International startups must have a realistic, clear and obtainable plan to expand to Saudi Arabia within one year of the programme starting date. — source: “Yes, however, we have a condition for international startups to have a realistic, clear and obtainable plan to expand to Saudi Arabia within the span of one year from the program starting date.” (https://taqadam.kaust.edu.sa/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Global six-month startup accelerator by KAUST and Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB), running since 2016 — 290+ startups backed, $459M+ raised, 4,600+ jobs created.
- Eligibility: 2+ founders, any industry; Saudi or international startups with a plan to expand to KSA within 1 year
- Terms: Non-dilutive grant funding
- Amount: Up to $140K ($40K base grant + up to $100K follow-on for top teams)
- Primary source: https://taqadam.kaust.edu.sa/ · checked October 2026

### The Garage
- Type: Incubator + accelerator (government-backed) (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/the-garage/
- Website: https://thegarage.sa/
- Apply: https://thegarage.sa/programs
- What you get: Incubator, accelerator and Bridge programmes with free workspace; no funding figure published.
- Who can apply: Saudi and international tech startups, from first-stage ideas to companies with sales.
- Cost: Not published — workspace and facilities free of charge
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Saudi Arabia — source: “الكراج وجهة الشركات الناشئة السعودية والعالمية في مختلف المجالات التقنية” (https://thegarage.sa/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Riyadh startup district for Saudi and international tech startups, launched at LEAP 2022 by the Ministry of Communications and IT, the Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones, and KACST. Three programmes: the Incubator takes first-stage ideas to an MVP with a clear business model and a first market test; the Accelerator takes established companies that already generate sales; the Bridge rebuilds the business model of launched projects whose growth has stalled. Its site counts 950+ tech startups graduated from its own and hosted programmes and 7,500+ jobs created.
- Eligibility: Tech startups, Saudi and international - Incubator: first-stage ideas · Accelerator: established companies with sales · Bridge: launched projects whose growth has stalled
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Programme support, no funding figure published - workspace and facilities free of charge for programme companies
- Primary source: https://thegarage.sa/ · checked October 2026

### VMS
- Type: Venture Studio (Accelerator) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/vms/
- Website: https://www.vms.sa/
- Apply: https://forms.gle/dqEMJD7FnQFM7omt6
- What you get: Seed funding and grants plus investor access.
- Who can apply: MENA and international founders entering the Saudi market.
- Cost: Terms not published
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — startup must operate/expand into the Saudi market as part of the programme — source: “dedicated to empowering MENA entrepreneurs and international startups to thrive in the Saudi market” (https://www.vms.sa/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture studio in Saudi Arabia for MENA and international founders entering the Saudi market. Its own site states 11 portfolio companies at a combined valuation of $160M.
- Amount: Seed funding and grants plus investor access - amounts not published
- Primary source: https://www.vms.sa/ · checked October 2026

### 100 Ventures
- Type: Venture capital — pre-seed and seed (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/100-ventures/
- Website: https://100-ventures.com/
- Apply: https://100-ventures.com/pitch
- What you get: Saudi early-stage VC: pre-seed and seed cheques plus an in-house tech/AI team.
- Who can apply: Pre-seed and seed founders in Saudi Arabia, the GCC and MENA.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: Saudi Arabia, GCC and MENA founders — source: “An early-stage venture firm from Saudi Arabia, backing the founders building the next century of the GCC and MENA” (https://100-ventures.com/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Early-stage venture firm from Saudi Arabia, part of the Jamal Ahmed Baghlaf Holding Group, writing pre-seed and seed cheques for founders building in Saudi Arabia, the GCC and MENA. Operator-led, with an in-house engineering and AI team for portfolio founders, market access and strategic partnerships; it reads every pitch itself and replies within 48 hours. Selected bets: Aumet, Themar, Glamera, AlFan, Barq, AlGooru.
- Eligibility: Founders at idea, pre-seed, seed or post-seed stage in Saudi Arabia, the GCC and MENA
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://100-ventures.com/ · checked October 2026

### anb Seed Fund (anb capital)
- Type: Venture capital — fintech, pre-seed to Series A (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/anb-seed-fund-anb-capital/
- Website: https://anbcapital.com.sa/web/anbcapital/anb-seed-fund
- What you get: CMA-regulated fintech venture fund of Arab National Bank, pre-seed to Series A.
- Who can apply: High-growth fintech startups in Saudi Arabia.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Private, closed-end venture capital fund regulated by the Capital Market Authority, launched as an initiative of the Arab National Bank (anb) with direct investment from the bank and managed by anb capital in Riyadh. It invests in high-growth fintech companies in Saudi Arabia from pre-seed through Series A; in February 2026 it co-led Safqah's USD 15.2M seed round.
- Eligibility: High-growth fintech companies in Saudi Arabia, pre-seed to Series A
- Amount: Ticket and fund size not published
- Primary source: https://anbcapital.com.sa/web/anbcapital/anb-seed-fund · checked October 2026

### Artal Capital
- Type: Growth fund (Artal Growth Opportunities Fund) (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/artal-capital/
- Website: https://artalcapital.com/
- What you get: Riyadh investment manager whose growth fund backs Saudi tech companies.
- Who can apply: Growth-stage Saudi tech companies (portfolio: Autobia, Salasa, Syarah).
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Independent investment management company in Riyadh, licensed by the Capital Market Authority. Its Artal Growth Opportunities Fund (first close announced April 2025) holds Saudi tech companies Autobia, Salasa and Syarah; SVC lists Artal among the venture capital funds it has invested in.
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://artalcapital.com/ · checked October 2026

### BIM Ventures
- Type: Venture Studio + VC (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/bim-ventures/
- Website: https://bimventures.com/
- Apply: https://bimventures.clickup.com/forms/9018414718/f/8crm5ky-43718/RCM2YCFVFKXCH9755D
- What you get: Venture studio and VC backing.
- Cost: Terms not published
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Riyadh venture studio co-building startups from idea to scale.
- Amount: Venture studio — fund sizes not published
- Primary source: https://bimventures.com/ · checked October 2026

### Core Vision Investment
- Type: Investment company — startup investor with angel network (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/core-vision-investment/
- Website: https://www.corevision.sa/
- Apply: https://www.corevision.sa/contact
- What you get: Riyadh startup investor and angel network; led Series A and Pre-Series A rounds.
- Who can apply: Startups in tech, fintech, SaaS, biotech and gametech.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026) — source: “Whether you're a founder seeking capital, an investor looking to join our network, or a service provider eager to collaborate — we'd love to hear from you.” (https://www.corevision.sa/contact)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Riyadh investment company (Al Narjis District) that invests in bold founders and high-growth companies across tech, fintech, SaaS, biotech and gametech and runs a private angel-investor network (Core Vision Plus+). It led the $12M Series A of Zetta Technologies (August 2025) and the SAR 11M Pre-Series A of Moneymoon (September 2025); founders seeking capital use its contact form.
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.corevision.sa/ · checked October 2026

### DAAL Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (technology) (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/daal-ventures/
- Website: https://daal.ventures/
- Apply: https://daal.ventures/apply
- What you get: Venture capital for emerging tech companies, with a GCC and Saudi focus.
- Who can apply: Tech startups worldwide, including those expanding into Saudi Arabia.
- Cost: Equity — venture capital
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Saudi Arabia — source: “DAAL Ventures invests in the most promising Tech Innovative opportunities around the world with focus on Emerging Markets.” (https://daal.ventures/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture capital firm based in Al Khobar that invests in innovative technology opportunities around the world, with a focus on emerging markets; its stated aim is to pioneer investment in emerging technology within the GCC region and beyond, and to become the leading technology-focused VC in Saudi Arabia. It supports its companies through partnerships with sister companies in Saudi Arabia and introductions to investors, and takes applications through an online investment form.
- Eligibility: Emerging technology companies, including those expanding into the Middle East and the Saudi market
- Terms: Yes — venture capital
- Amount: Ticket and fund size not published
- Primary source: https://daal.ventures/ · checked October 2026

### Fintactics Ventures
- Type: Venture capital fund + venture studio (fintech) (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/fintactics-ventures/
- Website: https://fintactics.ventures/
- Apply: https://fintactics.ventures/#contact
- What you get: Fintech VC fund and venture studio; pre-seed to early Series A.
- Who can apply: Fintech startups in Saudi Arabia, MENA and globally, pre-seed to early Series A.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Saudi Arabia — Fintech startups, pre-seed to early Series A — source: “We partner with local and international disruptive fintech start-ups from around the world to accelerate growth and localize technology for the purpose of solving problems within the Kingdom and MENA region.” (https://fintactics.ventures/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Saudi fintech VC fund and venture studio headquartered in Riyadh. Its VC fund invests in high-growth fintech startups from pre-seed to early Series A across the Kingdom, MENA and globally; the studio co-builds startups with entrepreneurs and corporates. Focus verticals include lending, open banking, DeFi and blockchain, embedded finance, wealth management, capital markets, RegTech, real-estate finance and insurance technology. Startups pitch through the contact form on its website; ticket sizes are not published.
- Eligibility: Fintech startups from pre-seed to early Series A, in Saudi Arabia, the MENA region and globally
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://fintactics.ventures/ · checked October 2026

### Growth Catalyst
- Type: Growth private equity (mid-market) (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/growth-catalyst/
- Website: https://www.growthcatalyst.com.sa/en
- Apply: https://www.growthcatalyst.com.sa/en/contact
- What you get: SAR 360M first close, deploying growth capital to mid-market companies.
- Who can apply: Saudi mid-market growth companies with strong management teams.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: GCC (85% primary emphasis on Saudi Arabia, 15% broader GCC) — source: “Primary emphasis on Saudi Arabia (85%), with selective allocation across the broader GCC (15%), focused on industrials, healthcare, food, education, renewables, consumer & entertainment, and technology.” (https://www.growthcatalyst.com.sa/en)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Riyadh growth investor — Growth Catalyst Investment Company, a closed joint-stock company incorporated 9 April 2025, received CMA licence 02-25312 in September 2025 to manage private equity funds and investment portfolios. Growth Catalyst Fund completed its first close at SAR 360 million in June 2026 to support Saudi mid-market growth (85% Saudi Arabia, 15% wider GCC); its own site lists Saudi Venture Capital's investment in the fund under April 2026. Concentrated, high-conviction positions — no single exposure above 20% of invested capital.
- Eligibility: Saudi mid-market growth companies with strong management teams — founders exploring a partnership use the contact form (name, organisation, email, message); ir@growthcatalyst.com.sa
- Terms: Yes — growth equity
- Amount: SAR 360M first close · growth capital for mid-market companies
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://www.growthcatalyst.com.sa/en · checked October 2026

### HALA Capital
- Type: Venture Capital / Private Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/hala-capital/
- Website: https://hala.capital/
- Apply: https://hala.vc/get-funded/
- What you get: Equity investment at early and growth stages.
- Who can apply: Full-time founders in GCC, Egypt or Jordan showing month-over-month growth.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: GCC, Egypt and Jordan — source: “Operates Across GCC, Egypt & Jordan” (https://www.hala.vc/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: HALA Eastern Capital — CMA-licensed (25318-02, Aug 2025) investment firm from Al Khobar, investing since 2014 through corporate fund operations; founders apply via its venture arm hala.vc. Sectors include EdTech, F&B, tourism and data.
- Eligibility: GCC, Egypt and Jordan · full-time founders · demonstrated month-over-month growth
- Amount: Early & growth stages
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://hala.capital/ · checked October 2026

### Hevolution Foundation
- Type: Foundation investments in early-stage companies (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/hevolution-foundation/
- Website: https://hevolution.com/
- What you get: Riyadh foundation investing in early-stage healthy-aging therapeutics companies.
- Who can apply: Early-stage longevity therapeutics and drug-development platforms.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Foundation in the King Abdullah Financial District, Riyadh, whose primary investment focus is early-stage companies developing therapies and technologies that target the root causes of aging. It also invests in platforms that shorten drug development or widen access to therapeutics for a longer healthy lifespan.
- Eligibility: Early-stage companies in healthy-aging therapeutics and related platforms
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://hevolution.com/ · checked October 2026

### Impact46
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/impact46/
- Website: https://impact46.sa/
- What you get: Equity from a SAR 500M Fund III (plus a SAR 150M gaming fund).
- Who can apply: Saudi and MENA tech startups, seed through pre-IPO.
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- Status: Active
- Summary: CMA-licensed investment firm — SAR 2.3B+ raised, 51+ portfolio companies, 6 exits, SAR 600M in loans provided. Fund III (SAR 500M, deploying since August 2023) targets Saudi growth to pre-IPO with a seed allocation; set up a SAR 150M gaming fund in partnership with the National Development Fund and the Social Development Bank. Backed Jahez through the first Saudi tech listing on Nomu (2021).
- Eligibility: Saudi and MENA tech startups, seed to pre-IPO
- Terms: Yes — equity stake
- Amount: Fund III SAR 500M · gaming fund SAR 150M · SAR 2.3B+ raised across vehicles
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://impact46.sa/ · checked October 2026

### JIMCO (Jameel Investment Management Company)
- Type: Venture capital and fund investments (family investment arm) (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/jimco-jameel-investment-management-company/
- Website: https://jimco.com/en/who-we-are/
- What you get: Jameel Family investment arm; its tech fund (initially US$500M) backs funds and start-ups.
- Who can apply: Early-stage start-ups with proven market traction; Gulf fintechs among them.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Global investment arm of the Jameel Family, with Middle East offices in Riyadh, Jeddah and Dubai; its registered address is in Jersey. It invests in private equity and venture capital funds and in early-stage companies directly; its JIMCO Technology Fund, initially a US$500 million evergreen fund, backs both selected funds and start-ups. Gulf fintechs it backs include tabby, Rain and Lean Technologies (Riyadh; US$67.5M Series B, November 2024) and Ziina (UAE; US$22M Series A, December 2024).
- Eligibility: Early-stage start-ups and venture funds, worldwide; businesses with proven market traction and a clear pathway to further value growth
- Terms: Equity — early-stage direct and fund investments; terms not published
- Amount: JIMCO Technology Fund: initially US$500M, evergreen · ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://jimco.com/en/who-we-are/ · checked October 2026

### Joa Capital
- Type: VC + Private Credit (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/joa-capital/
- Website: https://www.joa.capital/
- Apply: https://joa.capital/contact/
- What you get: VC ticket not published.
- Cost: Equity or debt
- From abroad: Within the region: MENA region — source: “A private market investor focused on investing in high-growth technology businesses in Saudi Arabia and the MENA region” (https://www.joa.capital/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Riyadh (Diriyah) investment firm — CMA-licensed since 24 Mar 2019 (advisory and arranging added Nov 2024); arranging office in Az-Zahraa, Riyadh. Venture portfolio includes Erad, Prop-AI, Shorages, Governata and Safqah.
- Amount: VC ticket not published.
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://www.joa.capital/ · checked October 2026

### KAUST Innovation Ventures
- Type: University venture fund (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/kaust-innovation-ventures/
- Website: https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/innovate/kaust-innovation-ventures
- Apply: https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1twPLUcenQY-cDZQ1tk2ThQezi8e
- What you get: Equity investment of $100K–$700K, up to $500K at seed and up to $2M at early stage.
- Who can apply: Startups in, or willing to relocate to, Saudi Arabia — health, energy, food, water, AI.
- Cost: Convertible notes and equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Must be operating in, incorporated in, or willing to relocate to Saudi Arabia — source: “Operating in, incorporated in, or willing to relocate to Saudi Arabia.” (https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/innovate/kaust-innovation-ventures)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: The venture fund of KAUST, backing KAUST spinouts, high-growth local ventures and global deep-tech startups expanding into Saudi Arabia, from proof of concept to commercial scale.
- Eligibility: Operating in, incorporated in, or willing to relocate to Saudi Arabia
- Amount: Pre-seed to early Series A - typical tickets $100K-$700K; up to $500K at seed stage and up to $2M at early stage
- Primary source: https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/innovate/kaust-innovation-ventures · checked October 2026

### Khwarizmi Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/khwarizmi-ventures/
- Website: https://www.khwarizmivc.com/
- Apply: https://www.khwarizmivc.com/contact
- What you get: Equity investment, seed to Series A.
- Who can apply: Early-stage startups with proven traction in the GCC, seed to Series A.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: GCC region — source: “Khwarizmi Ventures is a Saudi-based VC firm investing in early-stage startups with proven traction in the GCC region.” (https://www.khwarizmivc.com/about)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Saudi early-stage investor — sector agnostic, GCC focus, Seed to Series A (site wording). Portfolio on the site includes Calo, Eyewa, Tamara, HALA and TruKKer.
- Amount: Seed to Series A · fund and cheque sizes not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://www.khwarizmivc.com/ · checked October 2026

### King Saud University Venture Fund (SparkLabs KSU Fund I)
- Type: University venture fund + accelerator (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/king-saud-university-venture-fund-sparklabs-ksu-fund-i/
- Website: https://sparklabssaudi.com/
- What you get: Accelerator funding up to $300K.
- Who can apply: Saudi and KSU-ecosystem founders.
- Status: Closed
- Summary: King Saud University Venture Fund and Startup Accelerator, established by Riyadh Valley Company — the investment arm of King Saud University — with SparkLabs, which manages the fund. Targets early-stage startups, with a focus on ventures from KSU students, researchers and faculty, and technology companies using the university's research infrastructure.
- Amount: Accelerator funding up to $300K · fund size not published
- Primary source: https://rvc.com.sa/en/riyadh-valley-company-launches-king-saud-university-venture-fund-in-partnership-with-sparklabs/ · checked October 2026

### Mad'a Investment Company
- Type: Venture capital arm of a multi-strategy investment firm (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/mada-investment-company/
- Website: https://minvest.sa/
- What you get: Riyadh investment firm whose venture arm backs high-growth Gulf startups.
- Who can apply: High-growth startups in the Gulf region.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Riyadh-headquartered investment firm (Turki Alawwal Street) whose venture arm invests in high-growth startups across the Gulf, alongside venture building, private equity, public equity and real estate. Its investments include Klaim, HyperPay, Raqamyah, Hubpay, Tarabut, RedBox, Shgardi, Telfaz11 and Clinicy.
- Eligibility: High-growth startups in the Gulf region
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://minvest.sa/ · checked October 2026

### MASNA Ventures
- Type: Venture capital — defense sector (Sentinel Shield Fund I) (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/masna-ventures/
- Website: https://masnavc.com/
- Apply: https://masnavc.com/contact
- What you get: Saudi defense VC fund (Sentinel Shield Fund I), CMA-regulated since June 2026.
- Who can apply: Defense and advanced-manufacturing tech built in Saudi Arabia, incl. U.S./allied firms.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Technology manufactured in Saudi Arabia — source: “providing the private-sector capital to scale proven U.S. and allied defense technologies into local manufacturing in Saudi Arabia.” (https://masnavc.com/media)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Saudi Arabia's first defense-sector venture capital fund (Sentinel Shield Fund I), CMA-regulated since June 2026, with offices in Riyadh and the United States. It backs Saudi startups that manufacture advanced defense technologies and systems in the Kingdom and provides private-sector capital to scale proven U.S. and allied defense technologies into local manufacturing — defense, uncrewed aerial systems, supply chains and advanced industry.
- Eligibility: Saudi defense startups; proven U.S. and allied defense technologies to be manufactured in Saudi Arabia
- Amount: Fund size not published
- Primary source: https://masnavc.com/ · checked October 2026

### Merak Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/merak-capital/
- Website: https://merak.capital/
- What you get: Up to $150K cash plus $150K in-kind (Exel programme), from a 3B+ AUM manager.
- Who can apply: Teams with a working product or playable build, Saudi-based or relocating.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Multi-strategy investment institution - 3B+ assets under management, 50+ portfolio companies, 10+ active funds (site, as of 31 Oct 2025). Primary focus the Kingdom, with selective MENA exposure only where it strengthens a Saudi platform. Runs Exel, a 16-week accelerator: Cohort 2 deployed $5.1M across 17 startups (Demo Day Feb 2026); Cohort 3 runs Aug-Nov 2026 (applications closed May 2026).
- Eligibility: Exel: working product or playable build · Saudi CR or willingness to relocate
- Amount: 3B+ AUM (site) · Exel: up to $150K cash + $150K in-kind
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://merak.capital/ · checked October 2026

### Nama Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/nama-ventures/
- Website: https://www.namaventures.com/
- Apply: https://namaventures.com/apply/
- What you get: Equity from pre-seed to seed; tickets $100K–$1M (pre-seed) and $500K–$2M (seed).
- Who can apply: Pre-seed and seed tech startups across MENA, with a strong focus on Saudi Arabia.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: MENA (Middle East and North Africa) — source: “committed to backing high-growth, tech-enabled startups across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA)” (https://www.namaventures.com/nama-ventures-a-leading-vc-powering-tech-innovation-in-menas-micro-environment/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: CMA-licensed venture firm (24293-02); an early-stage, technology-focused fund whose typical entry is at pre-seed and seed, with tickets of $100K–$1M (pre-seed) and $500K–$2M (seed). Accepts applications through its dealflow form.
- Amount: Pre-seed to Seed · $100K–$1M pre-seed · $500K–$2M seed
- Primary source: https://www.namaventures.com/ · checked October 2026

### Nour Nouf Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (impact) (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/nour-nouf-ventures/
- Website: https://www.nournouf.com/
- Apply: https://www.nournouf.com/apply-for-an-investment/
- What you get: Early-stage impact investment.
- Who can apply: Early-stage companies matching the four impact pillars, across eight sectors.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Saudi Arabia — source: “Nour Nouf Ventures proudly invests in impact ventures across regions, with a global reach and a commitment to impact Sustainable Development Goals.” (https://www.nournouf.com/impact/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Impact venture capital firm in Jeddah, investing at early stage against four impact pillars: knowledge transfer, sustainable success, nurturing innovation and SDG impact.
- Eligibility: Companies that align with the four impact pillars and are seeking funding at an early stage
- Amount: Early stage - ticket and fund size not published
- Primary source: https://www.nournouf.com/ · checked October 2026

### Outliers Venture Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/outliers-venture-capital/
- Website: https://outliers.vc/
- What you get: Equity investment.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: VC backing outlier founders who build different; portfolio includes Lean and Tabby. Runs the Outliers Fellowship with the SVC network — a talent programme, not a funding route. Inbound via hello@outliers.vc.
- Amount: Fund size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC), Dubai Future District Fund
- Primary source: https://outliers.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Palm Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/palm-ventures/
- Website: https://www.palm-ventures.com/
- What you get: Early-stage equity investment.
- Who can apply: Early-stage technology companies across MENA.
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- Status: Active
- Summary: Early-stage VC established 2020 — offices in Riyadh, Jeddah and Amman. Backs MENA technology founders.
- Terms: Yes — equity
- Amount: Early stage · fund size not published
- Primary source: https://www.palm-ventures.com/ · checked October 2026

### Pinnacle Capital
- Type: Alternative investment firm — venture capital & listed equity (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/pinnacle-capital/
- Website: https://pinnacle.sa/
- What you get: Venture capital for tech startups and strategic stakes in listed companies.
- Who can apply: Tech startups in Saudi Arabia (CMA-licensed investor).
- Status: Active
- Summary: Riyadh alternative investment firm (est. 2021, CMA licence 12-23262) with two verticals: venture capital in tech startups and strategic stakes in listed companies.
- Eligibility: CMA-licensed (12-23262, since Jun 2023)
- Terms: Strategic stakes in listed companies; venture terms not published
- Amount: Venture capital + listed-equity stakes · fund size not published
- Primary source: https://pinnacle.sa/ · checked October 2026

### Propeller
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/propeller/
- Website: https://www.propellerinc.me/
- What you get: Seed and pre-Series A equity.
- Who can apply: Seed and pre-Series A startups (contact via email, no form).
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- Status: Active
- Summary: Seed and Pre-A investor in horizontal AI infrastructure and AI-native applications, from silicon-adjacent to enterprise workflows — a global firm that names no office location on its site. Runs Kernel Camp, an 8-week hacker house in San Francisco for MENA founders that takes no equity upfront but reserves the right to invest up to $750,000 in later financings. Portfolio names on the site include Codemod, Corgea, ActivePieces, Gameball and Pebble.
- Eligibility: Share Your Startup on propellerinc.me links to the LinkedIn company page; hello@propellerinc.me — no form
- Terms: Yes — equity
- Amount: Seed and Pre-A · fund size and cheque size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://www.propellerinc.me/ · checked October 2026

### RAED Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/raed-ventures/
- Website: https://raed.vc/
- Apply: https://www.raed.vc/apply/
- What you get: Equity investment from pre-seed to Series A.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: MENA region — source: “We are investing in early stage companies in MENA region.” (https://raed.vc/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Saudi-based VC focused on early-stage startups in MENA.
- Amount: Pre-seed to Series A
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://raed.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Redesign Health (Sanabil Venture Studio)
- Type: Venture studio and venture capital — healthcare (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/redesign-health-sanabil-venture-studio/
- Website: https://www.redesignhealth.com/
- What you get: Healthcare venture studio and VC; runs the Sanabil Venture Studio in Riyadh.
- Who can apply: Founders building healthcare companies.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Global venture and applied technology platform that builds next-generation healthcare companies with founders, through AI-native venture capital and buyout strategies, with offices in New York, Los Angeles, Riyadh and Bengaluru. Sanabil lists Redesign Health and Sanabil Studio by Redesign Health among its accelerator and venture-studio funds; Nuxera AI secured $2.5M from the Sanabil Venture Studio.
- Eligibility: Founders building in healthcare
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Sanabil Investments
- Primary source: https://www.redesignhealth.com/ · checked October 2026

### Riyad Taqnia Fund (RTF)
- Type: Venture Capital (close-ended fund) (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/riyad-taqnia-fund-rtf/
- Website: https://www.riyadcapital.com/asset-management/private-funds/riyad-taqnia-fund
- What you get: Venture capital from a SAR 450MM close-ended fund, seed through Series B.
- Who can apply: Saudi, GCC-based and international technology companies; no application route, email only.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Dormant
- Summary: Close-ended venture capital fund founded by Riyad Capital and TAQNIA, the technology company fully owned by the Public Investment Fund. Its own site says it invests in technology startups around the globe at Seed through Series B; Riyad Capital states the purpose as a portfolio of Saudi, GCC-based and international technology companies, backed by leading institutional investors in Saudi Arabia, with an investment committee of seven Saudi and international members. Key terms: fund size SAR 450MM, Riyad Capital and TAQNIA invested SAR 12.5MM each, a 10-year term with a 5-year investment period; the launch year is not published. Portfolio: Dokkan Afkar, Foodics, Beehive, Souqalmal, Trukker. Contact: rtfund@riyadcapital.com.
- Terms: Yes — venture capital
- Amount: Fund size SAR 450MM · Seed through Series B · ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.riyadcapital.com/asset-management/private-funds/riyad-taqnia-fund · checked October 2026

### Riyadh Valley Company (RVC)
- Type: University investment arm (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/riyadh-valley-company-rvc/
- Website: https://rvc.com.sa/en/
- Apply: https://rvc-vsg.com/register/startup
- What you get: University-backed equity investment.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: The investment arm of King Saud University in the fields of knowledge economy; its investments include the King Saud University – SparkLabs Fund.
- Amount: University-backed venture capital
- Primary source: https://rvc.com.sa/en/ · checked October 2026

### Rua Growth Fund
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/rua-growth-fund/
- Website: https://rua.vc/
- Apply: https://rua.vc/submission
- What you get: Equity investment.
- Who can apply: Early and growth-stage companies incorporated or operating in Saudi Arabia.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Saudi growth fund born out of a partnership between Osool & Bakheet and Imena Group, CMA-licensed, and a Jada portfolio fund. Invested in Lucidya (rua.vc).
- Eligibility: Incorporated in or significant operations in Saudi Arabia · early and growth stage
- Amount: Not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://rua.vc/ · checked October 2026

### RZM Investment
- Type: Family Office + VC (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/rzm-investment/
- Website: https://rzm.com.sa/en/venture-capital/
- Apply: https://airtable.com/appIS4tQri8jZnWFI/shrW7lvAtkT00mskO
- What you get: Investment from a portfolio of 50+ active deals across 10+ sectors.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Riyadh-based single-family office, formalised as RZM Investment in 2008, investing across public equities, private equity, real estate and venture capital. Over 50 active investments spanning more than 10 sectors across 6 countries; its Venture Capital page offers guidance, advisory support or direct investment.
- Amount: 50+ active investments across 10+ sectors and 6 countries
- Primary source: https://rzm.com.sa/en/venture-capital/ · checked October 2026

### s60 Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/s60-ventures/
- Website: https://s60.com.sa/
- Apply: https://s60.com.sa/investment-form
- What you get: Equity investment from pre-seed to Series A, selective from Series B.
- Who can apply: FinTech and FinTech-adjacent startups in Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the UK and Europe.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: KSA, UAE, UK & Europe — source: “We invest in companies across KSA, UAE, UK & Europe” (https://s60.com.sa/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: FinTech-focused Saudi venture capital fund, headquartered in Riyadh and managed by Alistithmar Capital, a subsidiary of Saudi Investment Bank. Invests across Saudi Arabia, the UAE, the UK and Europe.
- Amount: Pre-Seed, Seed and Series A, with selective participation in Series B and beyond - fund size and ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://s60.com.sa/ · checked October 2026

### SAB Invest X-Tech Fund
- Type: Venture capital fund (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sab-invest-x-tech-fund/
- Website: https://www.sabinvest.com/en/announcements/ex-tech-fund
- What you get: Venture capital for early- and growth-stage tech start-ups, focused on financial innovation.
- Who can apply: Tech start-ups selected from the Saudi market; no application route published.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: First venture capital fund of SAB Invest (X-Tech), a tech-focused private fund launched at the 24 Fintech event in Riyadh with anchor investors such as SAB. It invests in technology start-ups at early and growth stages to enable financial innovation, selecting opportunities from the Saudi market; companies it backs receive financial support, strategic guidance and access to SAB Invest’s network in financial services.
- Eligibility: Technology start-ups at early and growth stages, selected from the Saudi market, with a focus on financial innovation
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Fund size and ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.sabinvest.com/en/announcements/ex-tech-fund · checked October 2026

### Sadu Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sadu-capital/
- Website: https://www.sadu.vc/
- Apply: https://www.sadu.vc/get-in-touch
- What you get: Equity investment from pre-seed to Series A.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: CMA-licensed VC (21226-02, licensed Jun 2021, operating since Jan 2022), Riyadh. Portfolio includes Autobia, Proteinea, Scalers and Safqah Capital; participated in Solidrange's seed round (Feb 2026). Stage: pre-seed and seed per its About page; the homepage states pre-seed through Series A.
- Amount: Pre-Seed to Series A · ticket size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://www.sadu.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Sanabil Investments
- Type: Sovereign-backed Investment Company (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sanabil-investments/
- Website: https://www.sanabil.com/
- What you get: Equity across venture, growth and small buyouts; accelerator route via 500 Global Saudi.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Financial investment company wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF), deploying capital across venture, growth capital and small buyouts — first investment 2011, 200+ investments completed, 80% allocation to private investments, more than $3 billion committed per year to global private investments including VC/growth (site). Co-runs the Sanabil Accelerator by 500 Global — Batch 10 (November 2025) selected nine companies from 735+ applications; 107 startups accelerated to date.
- Amount: More than $3B committed per year to global private investments (site) · 200+ investments completed
- Primary source: https://www.sanabil.com/ · checked October 2026

### SEEDRA Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/seedra-ventures/
- Website: https://seedra.com/
- Apply: https://seedra.com/connect/
- What you get: Equity investment from pre-seed to Series B.
- Who can apply: Post-MVP ventures.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Riyadh-based early-stage VC partnering with post-MVP ventures; invests from pre-seed and seed to Series B and beyond. Portfolio includes Zid, SiFi, Mawj AI and Lendo.
- Eligibility: Post-MVP ventures
- Amount: Pre-Seed to Series B
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://seedra.com/ · checked October 2026

### Sharaka Capital
- Type: Venture Capital + Private Equity (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sharaka-capital/
- Website: https://sharaka.sa/
- Apply: https://sharaka.sa/contact-us/
- What you get: Equity investment from seed to Series A.
- Who can apply: Founders applying through the site's funding request form.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Riyadh boutique investment firm licensed by the Saudi CMA (licence 23267-02) — venture capital, private equity and advisory. Sharaka Venture Fund I (launched 2019) is fully deployed across 21 companies from Seed to Series A; Sharaka Venture Fund II (launched 2024) invests from Seed to Series A in FinTech, Vertical SaaS and AI with a strong emphasis on the Saudi market. Portfolio names on the site include Foodics, Lendo, Eyewa, Syarah, Moyasar, Rewaa and Sary.
- Eligibility: Apply For Funding form on sharaka.sa/contact-us (name, subject, message, phone, email) · info@sharaka.sa
- Terms: Yes — equity
- Amount: Seed to Series A · fund size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://sharaka.sa/ · checked October 2026

### STV
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/stv/
- Website: https://stv.vc/
- Apply: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSe0RGDkBlcVRWtwtoSEpS0SEt4nWkaUt2iBeww4FhBhJrUdCg/viewform
- What you get: Equity from a $100M AI fund, plus NICE non-dilutive funding.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Saudi venture capital firm. Runs the $100M AI Fund backed by Google for AI-native startups across MENA, and NICE, a non-dilutive funding programme (site). Tabby became its third unicorn (2023).
- Amount: AI Fund $100M · NICE non-dilutive funding
- Primary source: https://stv.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Suhail Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/suhail-ventures/
- Website: https://suhail.vc/
- Apply: https://suhail.vc/applynow/
- What you get: Equity investment pre-seed to Series A.
- Who can apply: Full-time teams in MENA with a launched product, traction and sound unit economics.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Saudi Arabia — source: “While we invest globally, we offer strategic access and support for startups aiming to expand into the Middle East.” (https://suhail.vc/why-suhail/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Saudi VC (Southern Khalidiya District, Salman Al Farsi Street per its site) — sector-agnostic Pre-Seed to Series A. Portfolio on the site includes TOROD and Safqah.
- Eligibility: Launched product with traction · full-time team · sound unit economics · pre-seed to Series A, MENA focus
- Amount: Pre-Seed to Series A · fund size not published
- Primary source: https://suhail.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Sukna Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sukna-ventures/
- Website: https://suknaventures.com/
- Apply: https://suknaventures.com/contact
- What you get: Equity investment from Pre-Seed to Series B.
- Who can apply: Founders submitting a proposal via the site's New Business form.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Riyadh-based early-stage VC with offices in Jeddah and Abu Dhabi (ADGM). Invests from pre-seed to Series B across MENA with a focus on Saudi Arabia, the UAE, Jordan, Egypt and Bahrain; two vehicles are named on its portfolio pages, MENA Fund I and Global Fund I. Portfolio includes Classera and Atheer (Saudi Arabia), Abhi (UAE) and US names such as Betterment and Anecdote.
- Eligibility: Founders submit a proposal through the New Business form on suknaventures.com/contact (Edda deal-flow widget)
- Terms: Yes — equity
- Amount: Pre-Seed to Series B · cheque size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://suknaventures.com/ · checked October 2026

### Takamol Ventures
- Type: Venture investor — early-stage technology (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/takamol-ventures/
- Website: https://takamolventures.com.sa/en
- Apply: https://takamolventures.com.sa/en/pitch
- What you get: Early-stage technology investor: capital, strategic guidance and execution support.
- Who can apply: Early-stage technology startups; pitch through the website.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Saudi technology investor that backs early-stage startups with capital, strategic guidance and hands-on execution support. It focuses on early-stage technology companies and works closely with founders on strategy; founders seeking investment reach it through the pitch page on its website. Ticket sizes are not published.
- Eligibility: Early-stage technology companies
- Terms: Yes — terms not published
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://takamolventures.com.sa/en

### Tech Invest Com
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/tech-invest-com/
- Website: https://techinvestcom.com/
- Apply: https://techinvestcom.com/pitch-form/
- What you get: Equity from Series A to B (seed opportunistically); SAR 1B committed.
- Who can apply: MENA-based tech startups at growth stage.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: MENA — source: “Tech Invest Com is a closed stock Saudi company with committed capital of 1B SAR that invests in MENA-based tech startups in the growth stage.” (https://techinvestcom.com/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Closed stock Saudi company with committed capital of SAR 1 billion, investing in MENA-based tech startups at growth stage.
- Amount: Series A to B with opportunistic seed - committed capital SAR 1B; ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://techinvestcom.com/ · checked October 2026

### Ula Capital
- Type: Venture capital — deeptech (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/ula-capital/
- Website: https://www.ulacap.com/
- What you get: Riyadh deeptech VC investing in climate, healthcare and AI startups.
- Who can apply: Founders of category-defining deeptech startups.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Riyadh-based deeptech investment firm ("our home is in Riyadh", Neonexus, Al Olaya) that is regulated in Abu Dhabi and has offices in Silicon Valley and South Korea. It invests patient capital in founders building category-defining startups, with particular interest in climate, healthcare and AI, and adds hiring, strategy and introductions to clients and investors. Portfolio: SkipCash, Malaa, Pathway, Aurelius Systems.
- Eligibility: Founders building category-defining deeptech startups
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.ulacap.com/ · checked October 2026

### Ventures by Startups House
- Type: Venture Capital (accelerator-backed fund) (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/ventures-by-startups-house/
- Website: https://startupshouse.com/en/ventures/
- What you get: Equity investment from an accelerator-backed fund.
- Who can apply: Attliq accelerator graduates and startups targeting the Saudi market.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: The venture fund of Startups House, which calls itself the first national accelerator-backed fund in Saudi Arabia. Invests in graduates of its own Attliq accelerator as well as local and international startups targeting the Saudi market.
- Amount: Stage and ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://startupshouse.com/en/ventures/ · checked October 2026

### Vision Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/vision-ventures/
- Website: https://visionvc.co/
- Apply: https://airtable.com/shrANkp6bY8asNepP
- What you get: Equity or convertible-note investment, pre-seed to Series A.
- Who can apply: Full-time founders with a live MVP, incorporated or incorporating soon.
- Cost: Equity or convertible note
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Saudi VC investing in early-stage startups (Pre-Seed to Series-A) across MENA.
- Eligibility: MVP live · full-time founders · incorporated or incorporating soon · invests via equity or convertible notes · Pre-Seed, Seed and Series A
- Amount: Pre-Seed to Series A
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://visionvc.co/ · checked October 2026

### Waad Investment
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/waad-investment/
- Website: https://waadinvest.com/
- What you get: Equity, Pre-Series A to Series B, from a firm with a $200M targeted value.
- Who can apply: Tech startups, Pre-Series A to Series B; focus FinTech, AI, PropTech and Logistics.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Riyadh investment firm for Pre-Series A to Series B tech startups, founded in 2024 by Yaser Alghamdi with co-founders Nasser Almajid and Fahad Almesfir. ITHCA Group (created by Oman Investment Authority) invested in Waad in 2025; co-led the Sampo Pricing $750K pre-seed alongside Omantel Innovation Labs.
- Amount: $200M targeted value — Pre-Series A to Series B
- Primary source: https://waadinvest.com/ · checked October 2026

### Wadi Jeddah
- Type: University investment arm + incubator (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/wadi-jeddah/
- Website: https://wadi-jeddah.com.sa/en/
- Apply: https://wadi-jeddah.com.sa/en/ideas/
- What you get: Backs university-linked startups.
- Who can apply: Saudi startups nationwide and KAU research spin-offs.
- Cost: Equity — via VC/PE fund
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Investment arm of King Abdulaziz University (Royal Decree, ~2010), Jeddah. Backs university-linked startups.
- Eligibility: Saudi startups kingdom-wide; KAU research commercialisation
- Terms: Yes — via VC/PE fund
- Amount: Amount not published
- Primary source: https://wadi-jeddah.com.sa/en/ · checked October 2026

### Watheeq PropTech Venture Fund (Watheeq Capital)
- Type: Venture capital fund — PropTech (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/watheeq-proptech-venture-fund-watheeq-capital/
- Website: https://www.watheeq.com/en/
- What you get: CMA-licensed PropTech venture fund of Riyadh-based Watheeq Capital.
- Who can apply: PropTech startups, from pre-seed (portfolio: Rize).
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: CMA-licensed venture fund of Watheeq Capital, a Riyadh-headquartered asset manager (CMA licence 32-18189), investing in promising PropTech companies. It joined Rize's pre-seed round and later announced a partial exit at nearly four times the initial investment in 22 months, keeping its remaining stake.
- Eligibility: PropTech startups, from pre-seed
- Amount: Fund size not published
- Primary source: https://www.watheeq.com/en/ · checked October 2026

### Wyld VC
- Type: Venture capital — early stage to pre-IPO (VC fund) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/wyld-vc/
- Website: https://wyldvc.com/
- What you get: AI venture capital firm investing from early stage to pre-IPO.
- Who can apply: Founders building category-defining AI companies.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture capital firm, established in 2025 and based in San Francisco, Riyadh and Abu Dhabi, investing in founders building category-defining AI companies from early stage to pre-IPO. It offers access to strategic capital, large-scale partnerships and compute, particularly from the Gulf.
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://wyldvc.com/ · checked October 2026

### Cultural Development Fund (CDF)
- Type: Government cultural fund (Grant) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/cultural-development-fund-cdf/
- Website: https://cdf.gov.sa/
- Apply: https://cdf.gov.sa/incentives/digital-transformation-request?type=Digital_Transformation_Incentives
- What you get: Financial incentives of up to SAR 500,000 per project for AI in culture.
- Who can apply: Micro, small and medium-sized businesses adopting AI in cultural projects.
- Cost: No equity — grant
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Saudi Arabia’s government fund financing the cultural sector. In August 2026 it launched Nama’ Incentives — the track “AI Incentives for Cultural Projects”, funded in partnership with the Quality of Life Program, offers financial incentives of up to SAR 500,000 per project to micro, small and medium-sized businesses adopting or developing AI in cultural projects.
- Eligibility: Micro, small and medium-sized businesses adopting or developing AI technologies in projects across the cultural sector
- Terms: No — grants and financing
- Amount: Financial incentives of up to SAR 500,000 per project
- Primary source: https://cdf.gov.sa/ · checked October 2026

### Misk Foundation
- Type: Foundation grants (Grant) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/misk-foundation/
- Website: https://misk.org.sa/
- Apply: https://hub.misk.org.sa/en/programs
- What you get: Zero-equity programmes; Challenge for Change grants SAR 1M to each of three track winners.
- Who can apply: Early-stage tech founders, Saudi or launching in Saudi Arabia; Saudi youth-focused NPOs.
- Cost: No equity — grant
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Youth-empowerment foundation with startup tracks: Misk Launchpad (10.0 edition, hybrid, 10 weeks; runs September 2026 to January 2027) and the Misk Accelerator — a 3-month zero-equity programme for seed-stage tech startups. Challenge for Change, for Saudi-based non-profits and social businesses under three years old whose beneficiaries are mostly young people, awards a SAR 1 million grant to one winner in each of its three tracks (technology, health & wellbeing, environment); its latest round took applications from 19 November 2025 to 4 April 2026. Programmes, training and network — not a fund.
- Eligibility: Misk Launchpad: early-stage tech or tech-enabled startups (idea, prototype, MVP or early-launch stage), Saudi nationals or non-Saudis committed to launching in Saudi Arabia, good English · Challenge for Change: Saudi-based non-profits or social businesses under three years old with over 50% youth beneficiaries
- Terms: No equity
- Amount: Zero-equity programmes · Challenge for Change: SAR 1M grant to each of three track winners
- Primary source: https://misk.org.sa/ · checked October 2026

### NTDP — National Technology Development Program
- Type: Grants + financing support (Grant) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/ntdp-national-tech-dev-program/
- Website: https://ntdp.mcit.gov.sa/
- Apply: https://ntdp.datalexing.sa/en/public/form/uTjS3d4YaZAt8qTxj7vnYVu4laCn1P5Y8hSB4Yaq8C0
- What you get: MVPLab grants up to SAR 150,000; Tamkeen incentives for tech staff.
- Who can apply: Entrepreneurs past the MVP stage; tech SMEs (Tamkeen).
- Cost: No equity — grant
- From abroad: A company in Saudi Arabia is required — Saudi commercial registration at least one year old; Supported employee must be a Saudi national in a technical role — source: “An updated and valid commercial registration, with the company being at least one year.” (https://ntdp.mcit.gov.sa/tamkeen)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: MCIT’s National Technology Development Program. MVPLab gives grants of up to SAR 150,000 to entrepreneurs who have completed the MVP stage or have a feasibility study; Tamkeen gives tech SMEs financial incentives for technical staff.
- Eligibility: MVPLab: entrepreneurs past the MVP stage or with a feasibility study · Tamkeen: tech SMEs
- Terms: No equity
- Amount: MVPLab grants up to SAR 150,000
- Primary source: https://ntdp.mcit.gov.sa/ · checked October 2026

### RDIA — Saudi Innovation Grants
- Type: Government grants (Grant) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/rdia-saudi-innovation-grants/
- Website: https://rdia.gov.sa/
- Apply: https://saudiminds.rdia.gov.sa
- What you get: Innovation grants of up to SAR 4 million per project (Saudi Innovation Grants Program).
- Who can apply: Saudi SMEs, and university researchers commercialising IP together with SMEs.
- Cost: No equity — ownership retained
- From abroad: A company in Saudi Arabia is required — Saudi small and medium enterprises, or university researchers in the Kingdom working with SMEs — source: “Empowering Saudi Small and Medium Enterprises to Deliver Innovative Solutions for National Challenges” (https://saudiminds.rdia.gov.sa/account/sigp-about)
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Research, Development and Innovation Authority — national RDI funding across four priorities: health and wellness, sustainable environment, energy and industrial leadership, and economies of the future. Grant programmes route through the Saudiminds portal. The Saudi Innovation Grants Program (SIGP) funds SMEs and academic entrepreneurs in two stages: proof of concept (6–12 months) and proof of value (18–24 months).
- Eligibility: Saudi SMEs with their own R&D, SMEs collaborating with academic institutions, and university researchers commercialising intellectual property together with SMEs
- Terms: No equity — grants without giving up ownership or intellectual property rights
- Amount: Up to SAR 4 million per project (Saudi Innovation Grants Program)
- Primary source: https://rdia.gov.sa/ · checked October 2026

### Cloud Computing SEZ
- Type: Special Economic Zone (virtual, cloud & advanced tech) (Government) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/cloud-computing-sez/
- Website: https://www.cst.gov.sa/en/about/program-and-initiatives/cloud-computing-special-economic-zone-technology
- What you get: OECD-aligned special tax treatment; data centres can be built and run anywhere in the Kingdom.
- Who can apply: National and international cloud computing companies serving local and global markets.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- Status: Active
- Summary: Cloud Computing Special Economic Zone, supervised and managed by CST (master developer) with ECZA — cloud service providers can build and operate data centres anywhere in the Kingdom. Published incentive: special tax treatment in line with the OECD principle that avoids double taxation.
- Eligibility: National and international cloud computing companies providing cloud services to local and global markets
- Terms: No
- Amount: Special tax treatment (OECD-aligned, avoids double taxation)
- Primary source: https://www.cst.gov.sa/en/about/program-and-initiatives/cloud-computing-special-economic-zone-technology · checked October 2026

### CMA FinTech Lab (ExPermit)
- Type: Regulatory Sandbox (Government) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/cma-fintech-lab-expermit/
- Website: https://cma.gov.sa/en/Market/fintech/Pages/default.aspx
- Apply: https://cma.gov.sa/en/Market/fintech/Pages/default.aspx
- What you get: Regulatory permission to test products live; no funding provided.
- Who can apply: Capital markets, WealthTech and investment platform companies.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Applicant, including foreign companies, must establish a legal entity in the Kingdom (Saudi Arabia) to commence the FinTech activity — source: “the applicant - Including foreign companies- must establish the legal entity in the Kingdom to start commencing the FinTech activity.” (https://cma.gov.sa/en/Market/Documents/FAQ_EN.pdf)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Capital Market Authority FinTech Lab — an experimental environment granting FinTech ExPermits to test capital-market products. Open to local and international firms; applications accepted year-round. Hard gate: the product must involve securities activity and be at a sufficiently advanced stage of development for a live test.
- Eligibility: Capital markets, WealthTech, investment platforms
- Amount: Regulatory permission to test
- Primary source: https://cma.gov.sa/en/Market/fintech/Pages/default.aspx · checked October 2026

### Cybersecurity Accelerator (National Cybersecurity Authority)
- Type: Government accelerator (Government) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/cybersecurity-accelerator-national-cybersecurity-authority/
- Website: https://nca.gov.sa/en/innovation-and-investment/cybersecurity-accelerator/
- What you get: Government accelerator for cybersecurity startups; financial support is a goal.
- Who can apply: Saudi cybersecurity startups with innovative solutions.
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Accelerator of Saudi Arabia’s National Cybersecurity Authority, part of its Cybersecurity Entrepreneurship Program, for Saudi cybersecurity startups with innovative solutions. Its goals include providing financial support for local cybersecurity startups; the third edition offered field visits, workshops, mentorship and guidance hours. The first two editions report more than SAR 27M in startup investments. Registration for the third edition closed on 31 December 2025; no fourth edition is published.
- Eligibility: Saudi startups in cybersecurity offering innovative solutions in the field
- Amount: Not published per startup — first two editions: +SAR 27M in startup investments
- Primary source: https://nca.gov.sa/en/innovation-and-investment/cybersecurity-accelerator/ · checked October 2026

### KAUST University
- Type: University / Research Hub (Government) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/kaust-university/
- Website: https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/innovate
- Apply: https://share-eu1.hsforms.com/1twPLUcenQY-cDZQ1tk2ThQezi8e
- What you get: R&D grants (NextEra), TAQADAM non-dilutive funding up to $140K, KIV equity $100K–$700K.
- Who can apply: Go-to-market-ready companies in or relocating to Saudi Arabia with paying customers and early revenue.
- Cost: Equity or convertible note
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Must be operating in, incorporated in, or willing to relocate to Saudi Arabia — source: “Operating in, incorporated in, or willing to relocate to Saudi Arabia.” (https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/innovate/kaust-innovation-ventures)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: King Abdullah University of Science and Technology. KAUST Innovation Ventures invests in deep-tech research spinouts.
- Eligibility: KIV: operating in, incorporated in, or willing to relocate to Saudi Arabia · go-to-market-ready with paying customers and early revenue · convertible notes and equity · applications open year-round
- Amount: R&D grants (NextEra) · TAQADAM up to $140K non-dilutive · KIV convertible notes and equity, typical tickets $100K–$700K
- Primary source: https://www.kaust.edu.sa/en/innovate · checked October 2026

### MCIT — Ministry of Communications
- Type: Government Ministry (Government) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/mcit-ministry-of-communications/
- Website: https://www.mcit.gov.sa/en
- Apply: https://mcit.gov.sa/code
- What you get: Access to CODE programmes: Tech Founders, incubation and CODE Nine 66.
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Ministry of Communications and IT — runs the CODE entrepreneurship platform. Live CODE programmes: Tech Founders (global expansion for Saudi tech companies), the Incubation Program, and CODE Nine 66 for gaming.
- Amount: Programme envelope not published
- Primary source: https://www.mcit.gov.sa/en · checked October 2026

### MEWA
- Type: Government Ministry (Government) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/mewa/
- Website: https://ewax.mewa.gov.sa/en
- What you get: Mentorship, access to funding and technical assistance.
- Who can apply: Startups in sustainability, water security, agri-tech, bio-tech and food-tech.
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Ministry of Environment, Water and Agriculture — runs the EWAx startup accelerators across three tracks: Sedrah (environment), Sahabah (water) and Sunbolah (agriculture and food). Registration for the 2026 EWAx accelerators has ended; the next window is not announced.
- Amount: Programme support — funding amounts not published
- Primary source: https://ewax.mewa.gov.sa/en · checked October 2026

### MISA — Ministry of Investment
- Type: Government Agency (Government) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/misa-ministry-of-investment/
- Website: https://misa.gov.sa/
- Apply: https://investsaudi.sa/e-services
- What you get: Investor registration, entrepreneur registration and RHQ programme access.
- Who can apply: Foreign investors; entrepreneurs need a Saudi university or accredited incubator letter.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Foreign companies must obtain MISA investment registration to establish a legal entity in Saudi Arabia — source: “The Ministry of Investment shall issue registration for legal entities (foreign companies) and individuals holding the Special Residency Permit.” (https://eservices.misa.gov.sa/en/faq)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Ministry of Investment — investor registration under the updated Investment Law (licensing replaced by registration); estimated processing time 10 working days. 600+ regional HQs present in the Kingdom (MISA RHQ site). Entrepreneur registration requires a support letter or project accreditation from a Saudi university or accredited business incubator; 100% foreign commercial (trading) activity carries hard gates — SAR 30M minimum capital and presence in at least three regional or global markets.
- Amount: Investor registration · RHQ programme
- Primary source: https://misa.gov.sa/ · checked October 2026

### Monsha'at
- Type: Government Authority (Government) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/monshaat/
- Website: https://www.monshaat.gov.sa/en
- What you get: Loan guarantees and programme support for SMEs.
- Status: Active
- Summary: SME authority of Saudi Arabia. Licenses the incubator and accelerator ecosystem — its SIAN network counts 200+ licensed entities (incubators, accelerators, co-working spaces and related parties). Runs Thakaa innovation centres with the two-month Pioneers programme, the Biban forum and Tomoh for fast-growing SMEs; financing access via the Financing Gateway and the separate Kafalah guarantee programme (debt guarantee, via banks).
- Amount: Loan guarantees + programme support
- Primary source: https://www.monshaat.gov.sa/en · checked October 2026

### PIF Startup Ecosystem
- Type: Public investment fund (via fund of funds Jada) (Government) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/pif-startup-ecosystem/
- Website: https://www.pif.gov.sa/en/who-we-are/
- What you get: Not a direct-application fund — invests in funds rather than startups.
- Who can apply: PE and VC funds focused on the Saudi market, via PIF's fund of funds Jada.
- Cost: Indirect — invests in funds, not startups
- Status: Active
- Summary: Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund — $900bn+ assets under management. Reaches startups through Jada, its fund of funds for private equity and venture capital funds focused on the Saudi market.
- Eligibility: Private equity and venture capital funds focused on the Saudi market, via PIF's fund of funds Jada
- Terms: Via funds (Jada)
- Amount: $900bn+ AUM
- Primary source: https://www.pif.gov.sa/en/who-we-are/ · checked October 2026

### Premium Residency — Entrepreneur Track
- Type: Residency Programme (Government) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/premium-residency-entrepreneur-track/
- Website: https://pr.gov.sa/
- Apply: https://pr.gov.sa/pr?id=pr_product_details_entrepreneur_resident
- What you get: Residency for founders with a round of SAR 400K+ (20% share) or SAR 15M+ (10% share).
- Who can apply: Founders holding an entrepreneur licence from the Ministry of Investment.
- Cost: No equity — one-time fee SAR 4,000
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Entrepreneur licence from the Ministry of Investment; An investment round of at least SAR 400,000 from an investor accredited by the Center (category 1) or SAR 15 million (category 2); Applicant holds at least 20% (category 1) or 10% (category 2) of the company — source: “يستهدف هذا المنتج رواد الأعمال والمبتكرين الراغبين بالعمل على تطوير القطاعات المختلفة في السعودية.” (https://pr.gov.sa/pr?id=pr_product_details_entrepreneur_resident)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Premium Residency — Entrepreneur Track for founders holding an entrepreneur licence from the Ministry of Investment. Two categories on pr.gov.sa: the first needs an investment round of at least SAR 400,000 from an entity accredited by the Premium Residency Center and a founder share of at least 20%; the second needs at least SAR 15 million, a share of at least 10% and 10 jobs in year one plus 10 more in year two, and leads directly to permanent residency. Special benefits: Nitaqat exemption for the first three operational years and nomination of two staff for Special Talent residency. One-time fee SAR 4,000. Over 100 entrepreneurs from 20+ nationalities were granted it at Biban Forum in November 2025 (SPA). The portal notes that all requirements are subject to change.
- Eligibility: Entrepreneur licence from the Ministry of Investment · 1st category: round of at least SAR 400,000 from an entity accredited by the Center, founder share at least 20% · 2nd category: at least SAR 15 million, share at least 10%, 10 jobs in year one and 10 more in year two
- Amount: Residency, not funding — requires a round of at least SAR 400,000 (1st category) or SAR 15 million (2nd category) · one-time fee SAR 4,000
- Primary source: https://pr.gov.sa/pr?id=pr_product_details_entrepreneur_resident

### SAMA FinTech Sandbox
- Type: Regulatory Sandbox (Government) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sama-fintech-sandbox/
- Website: https://www.sama.gov.sa/en-US/Pages/default.aspx
- Apply: https://www.sama.gov.sa/en-US/Pages/ServiceDetails.aspx?serviceid=96
- What you get: Regulatory permission to test fintech and insurtech products.
- Who can apply: FinTech and InsurTech startups globally.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Saudi Central Bank Regulatory Sandbox — live testing of fintech solutions for a minimum of six and up to 12 months, open to local and international firms: licensed innovators, non-licensed local and international fintechs, and licensed firms partnering with innovators. Now an Always Open Model — applications accepted at any time; 25 companies currently operate in the sandbox (SAMA, September 2025).
- Eligibility: FinTech, InsurTech startups globally
- Amount: Regulatory permission to test
- Primary source: https://www.sama.gov.sa/en-US/Pages/default.aspx · checked October 2026

### SDAIA
- Type: Government Authority (Government) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sdaia/
- Website: https://sdaia.gov.sa/en/SDAIA/Pages/default.aspx
- What you get: Saudi AI authority; runs the GAIA generative AI accelerator.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Saudi Data and AI Authority. Runs a 10-week generative AI accelerator for tech startups, with grants provided by the National Technology Development Program — see the GAIA entry.
- Amount: Not a funding programme — see the GAIA entry
- Primary source: https://sdaia.gov.sa/en/SDAIA/Pages/default.aspx · checked October 2026

### SHIFT Innovation Center Riyadh
- Type: Government × corporate innovation center (MoH × Siemens Healthineers) (Government) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/shift-innovation-center-riyadh/
- Website: https://www.siemens-healthineers.com/shift-innovation-ecosystem
- Apply: https://innovation.siemens-healthineers.com/technologyaccelerator/tac-submit-my-startup
- What you get: Innovation hub with the Digi X-Lab data and AI facility.
- Who can apply: Healthcare and research entities, startups and innovators.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Healthcare innovation centre inaugurated in Riyadh on 9 Nov 2025 by the Ministry of Health and Siemens Healthineers — one of seven SHIFT innovation centers worldwide (Erlangen, Shanghai, Bengaluru, Istanbul, Madrid, Riyadh, Bratislava). It aims to foster partnerships among healthcare and research entities, startups and innovators and to build national capabilities, and houses Digi X-Lab, a Siemens Healthineers facility for data and AI. No Riyadh cohort intake published yet.
- Eligibility: Healthcare and research entities, startups and innovators
- Amount: Terms not published
- Primary source: https://www.siemens-healthineers.com/shift-innovation-ecosystem · checked October 2026

### Tourism Development Fund (TDF)
- Type: Government fund — MSME financing via partner banks and finance companies (Government) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/tourism-development-fund-tdf/
- Website: https://www.tdf.gov.sa/en
- What you get: Tourism fund: MSME loans via partner banks and lenders, plus a non-financial accelerator.
- Who can apply: Micro, small and medium enterprises in Saudi tourism.
- Cost: Loans — pricing not published
- Status: Active
- Summary: Saudi government fund for the tourism sector. Its Tourism Empowerment Program finances micro, small and medium tourism enterprises through partner commercial banks (Banks Program) and SAMA-licensed finance companies (NBFI Program) — working capital and other financing with competitive pricing and flexible repayments. Its Grow Tourism accelerator and incubator are non-financial.
- Eligibility: Micro, small and medium enterprises in the tourism sector
- Terms: Loans — no equity
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://www.tdf.gov.sa/en · checked October 2026

### Alajlan Family Office
- Type: Family office — direct startup investments and LP in VC funds (Angel network) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/alajlan-family-office/
- Website: https://alajlanfamilyoffice.com/
- Apply: https://notionforms.io/forms/alajlan-database
- What you get: Riyadh family office investing in tech startups, mainly Pre-Seed to Pre-Series A.
- Who can apply: Tech founders, MENAP focus; B2B SaaS, PropTech, EdTech and dev tools first.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Saudi Arabia — MENAP focus — source: “We focus on the MENAP region, but we've invested in startups in over 18 countries across different continents” (https://alajlanfamilyoffice.com/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Single-family office based in Riyadh that invests directly in tech startups — all stages, mainly Pre-Seed, Seed and Pre-Series A — and is a limited partner in funds such as Antler and VentureSouq. It reviews submitted pitch decks every Tuesday; MENAP focus, but it has invested in startups in more than 18 countries. Priority for B2B SaaS, future of work, PropTech, EdTech and developer tools.
- Eligibility: Tech startups at any stage, mainly Pre-Seed, Seed and Pre-Series A; MENAP focus
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://alajlanfamilyoffice.com/ · checked October 2026

### Falak Angels (Angel Space)
- Type: Angel Network (Angel network) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/falak-angels-angel-space/
- Website: https://falakangels.com/en/
- Apply: https://www.falakangels.com/en/startups/apply/form
- What you get: Angel investment.
- Who can apply: Full-time, technology-enabled founders headquartered in MENA with revenue or proof of traction.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Riyadh angel network, born 2019 and recognised with Saudi Venture Capital as the second angel network in KSA, running Deal Day pitching events — its own events page lists the 25th edition for August 2026 and the 24th for May 2026, with a 26th edition upcoming (undated). Runs on the AngelSpace platform. The accelerator and workspace arm operates separately as Falak Investment Hub (falak.sa). Not related to the Falak Platform in Qatar.
- Eligibility: Full-time founders · Headquarters in the MENA · Post-revenue or proof of traction · Technology-enabled · typically pre-seed to Series A
- Terms: Yes — angel equity
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://falakangels.com/en/ · checked October 2026

### Investors Mine
- Type: Angel Platform (Angel network) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/investors-mine/
- Website: https://investorsmine.com/
- Apply: https://form.typeform.com/to/As0nQJum
- What you get: Angel rounds brokered through the platform.
- Who can apply: Early-stage startups passing the platform's document review.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Saudi angel platform (Minjam Al-Mustathmir) that puts early-stage startups in front of angel investors after a document review, with an app on the investor side. Its own site states 20+ startups, 150+ investors, 25+ rounds and over SAR 100M invested. The platform brokers the rounds rather than investing itself.
- Amount: Angel rounds, early stage - ticket size not published; SAR 100M+ across 25+ rounds per its own site
- Primary source: https://investorsmine.com/ · checked October 2026

### Jeddah Angels
- Type: Angel Network (Angel network) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/jeddah-angels/
- Website: https://jeddahangels.com/en
- Apply: https://jeddahangels.com/en/startups/apply/form
- What you get: Angel investment.
- Who can apply: Post-MVP founders with traction, full-time and technology-enabled.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Angel network for the Jeddah region, born from a partnership between Falak Angels and Cedge and running on AngelSpace, Falak Angels' tech platform. Runs bimonthly pitching events. Not related to Jeddah Club (football).
- Eligibility: Post-MVP with traction · Technology-enabled · Solid competitive advantage · Full-time founders · Multi-billion dollar market size · Consistent startup growth
- Terms: Yes — angel equity
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://jeddahangels.com/en · checked October 2026

### Numu Angels
- Type: Angel network — syndicated co-investment (Angel network) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/numu-angels/
- Website: https://numuangels.net/
- Apply: https://dashboard.numuangels.net/startup_signup
- What you get: Saudi angel network presenting screened startups to 90+ angel investors.
- Who can apply: Early-stage, proof-of-concept startups headquartered in Saudi Arabia.
- Cost: Equity — angel stake
- From abroad: A company in Saudi Arabia is required — Startup must be headquartered in Saudi Arabia (listed investment criterion) — source: “المقر الرئيسي في السعودية” (https://numuangels.net/startups/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Independent Saudi angel-investor community that screens startups and presents them to its angel members for co-investment; it reports 93 angel investors, 80 entrepreneurs and 42 startups. It looks for early-stage, proof-of-concept startups headquartered in Saudi Arabia and offers post-investment support.
- Eligibility: Early-stage startups at proof-of-concept stage, headquartered in Saudi Arabia
- Primary source: https://numuangels.net/ · checked October 2026

### OQAL Angel Investors Network
- Type: Angel Investment Network (Angel network) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/oqal-angel-investors-network/
- Website: https://oqal.org/en/
- Apply: https://app.dealum.com/#/company/application/new/73590/a3z25bltwlem79v5nr8836yans79rdw0
- What you get: Angel tickets with SVC co-investment up to 1:1, SAR 100K–7.5M per round.
- Who can apply: Early-stage (seed to Series A) teams with a launched, tech-enabled product, full-time.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: MENA region — source: “Yes, you can apply to OQAL as we invest in opportunities and startups from across MENA; however, we focus on companies that aspire to expand and service the Saudi Market” (https://oqal.org/en/entrepreneurs/entrepreneurs-frequently-asked-questions/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Angel investor network across Saudi Arabia and Bahrain (est. 2011); invests in startups from across MENA with a focus on companies serving the Saudi market. Runs a co-investment partnership with Saudi Venture Capital (SVC): member-led angel tickets are matched by SVC up to 1:1, from SAR 100K up to SAR 7.5M per round, with a 60% exit incentive for co-investors.
- Eligibility: Early stage (seed to Series A) · launched, tech-enabled product · full-time founding team · SVC co-investment additionally requires HQ in Saudi Arabia, seed stage, not a subsidiary, an OQAL member as co-investor, and SVC plus co-investor equity capped at 30%
- Terms: Yes — angel equity
- Amount: Angel tickets + SVC co-investment up to 1:1 (SAR 100K–7.5M per round)
- Primary source: https://oqal.org/en/ · checked October 2026

### Riyadh Angel Investors (RAI)
- Type: Angel Network (Angel network) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/riyadh-angel-investors-rai/
- Website: https://riyadhangels.com/home-default
- Apply: https://app.dealum.com/#/company/application/new/96085/i38ccfjt5b9cwuzomphj6x0tp7cgviol
- What you get: Angel investment of $10K–$100K per investor.
- Who can apply: Pre-seed and seed MENA startups with an MVP; pitch deck required.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: MENA — source: “Riyadh Angel Investors (RAI) is an angel investing group that includes veterans from a diverse set of sectors in the Saudi economy whom can provide unique value to startups in MENA through their deep expertise and networks.” (https://riyadhangels.com/home-default)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Riyadh angel investing group of 50+ members drawn from executives of Saudi, regional and global corporates, investing at seed stage in MENA startups.
- Eligibility: Seed stage with an MVP per the site, pre-seed and seed per the application form - completed form plus pitch deck required - the valuation is expected to hold for six months after pitching - only startups invited to pitch night are contacted; no answer within 60 days means no
- Amount: $10K-$100K per investor - pre-seed and seed per the application form; round size not published
- Primary source: https://riyadhangels.com/home-default · checked October 2026

### Women Spark
- Type: Angel Network — women-led startups (Angel network) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/women-spark/
- Website: https://www.get-playbook.com/en/invest
- What you get: PLAYBOOK’s network for women-led ventures; demo days.
- Who can apply: Women-led businesses.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Women Spark has championed women-led innovation and investment since 2011; it joined PLAYBOOK in 2024 and is now PLAYBOOK’s network for women-led ventures. Women-led businesses can be listed in the PLAYBOOK app by enquiry and pitch at PLAYBOOK demo days.
- Eligibility: Women-led businesses
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://www.get-playbook.com/en/invest · checked October 2026

### 1957 Ventures
- Type: Corporate venture capital (bank) (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/1957-ventures/
- Website: https://1957ventures.com/
- Apply: https://1957ventures.com/apply.html
- What you get: Series A and B funding for fintech startups from a SAR 1B fund backed by Riyad Bank.
- Who can apply: Fintech startups at Series A or B; the form accepts HQs in Saudi Arabia, the GCC or elsewhere.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Saudi Arabia — source: “HQ Location * Select location Saudi Arabia GCC (Other) Other” (https://1957ventures.com/apply.html)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Fintech investor backed by Riyad Bank, based in Riyadh, with a SAR 1B fund to invest in, partner with and scale fintech companies reshaping financial services across the region. It backs founders transforming the financial services sector in Saudi Arabia with Series A and B funding.
- Eligibility: Fintech startups raising Series A or B; the application form asks for the HQ (Saudi Arabia, other GCC or elsewhere) and the Saudi presence (current, planned or none)
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: SAR 1B fund · Series A and B rounds · ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://1957ventures.com/ · checked October 2026

### Al Faisaliah Group (AFG)
- Type: Corporate VC / investment group — direct investments, fund anchor, venture debt (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/al-faisaliah-group-afg/
- Website: https://www.alfaisaliah.com/
- What you get: Direct startup investments; also anchors Nuwa Capital.
- Who can apply: High-growth, founder-led startups aligned with AFG's strategic priorities.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Saudi investment and operating group founded in 1970, headquartered in Riyadh. Its venture capital arm uses three models: anchor investor and strategic partner of Nuwa Capital (early-stage companies across MENA), direct investments in high-growth, founder-led startups that align with its strategic priorities, and venture debt through Amplify Growth Partners.
- Eligibility: High-growth, founder-led startups aligned with AFG's strategic priorities
- Terms: Direct investments; terms not published
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.alfaisaliah.com/our-businesses/venture-capital/ · checked October 2026

### alinma Digital Fund
- Type: Corporate venture capital (bank) (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/alinma-digital-fund/
- Website: https://www.alinma.com/en/About-the-Bank/The-Bank/News/2025/9/Wadaie
- What you get: Strategic investments in fintech companies from alinma bank’s digital fund.
- Who can apply: Fintech companies; no published criteria or application route.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Fintech investment vehicle of alinma bank in Saudi Arabia. It announced strategic investments in Qashio (spend management and corporate cards) and Wadaie (a Saudi platform for Shariah-compliant time and savings deposits); alinma’s fintech portfolio also includes Amwal Tech, Ejari, Lean Technology and NearPay, plus several VC funds.
- Eligibility: Fintech companies; no published criteria or application route
- Terms: Strategic investments — terms not published
- Amount: Ticket and fund size not published
- Primary source: https://www.alinma.com/en/About-the-Bank/The-Bank/News/2025/9/Wadaie · checked October 2026

### Aramco SAiL
- Type: Corporate innovation hub (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/aramco-sail/
- Website: https://www.aramco.com/en/what-we-do/energy-innovation/digitalization
- What you get: Corporate innovation collaboration with Aramco.
- Who can apply: Startups, technology leaders, academia and public or private entities; contact by email.
- Cost: Terms not published
- Status: Active
- Summary: Aramco's digital venturing and innovation space, launched Nov 2023 in Al-Midra Tower at Aramco's HQ in Dhahran and created to act as a 'digital super highway' linking Aramco's assets and technologies with market needs. No open intake or published terms; contact by email only.
- Eligibility: Not published — SAIL connects public and private entities, academia, potentially-disruptive startups, technology leaders and venture capitalists
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Terms not published
- Primary source: https://www.aramco.com/en/what-we-do/energy-innovation/digitalization · checked October 2026

### Aramco Ventures
- Type: Corporate VC (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/aramco-ventures/
- Website: https://aramcoventures.com/
- What you get: Venture investment from $7.5B in committed capital.
- Who can apply: High-growth companies worldwide in energy, sustainability and industrial innovation.
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture capital arm of Aramco — $7.5B in committed capital, investing globally in high-growth companies across energy, sustainability, industrial innovation and new sectors. Affiliated programmes: Wa'ed Ventures and OGCI Climate Investments.
- Eligibility: High-growth companies worldwide with breakthrough technologies in energy, sustainability and industrial innovation
- Terms: Yes — equity stake
- Amount: $7.5B committed capital
- Primary source: https://aramcoventures.com/ · checked October 2026

### colab by stc
- Type: Internal venture builder — no external applications (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/colab-by-stc/
- Website: https://www.stc.com.sa/
- What you get: Internal venture-building only; no external funding route for founders.
- Who can apply: Not applicable — internal only, no external applications accepted.
- Cost: Not published — internal venture builder
- Status: Active
- Summary: stc group corporate venture builder — builds new ventures from the ground up. Internal programme: no public intake, terms or dedicated website.
- Amount: Internal — no external funding route
- Primary source: https://www.stc.com.sa/ · checked October 2026

### HUMAIN
- Type: AI company (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/humain/
- Website: https://www.humain.com/
- What you get: No published startup programme; the company invests via its own deals.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Full-stack AI ecosystem building sovereign data centers and cloud, generative AI models and applications, including HUMAIN ONE, an agentic AI operating system for enterprise automation. It has invested in the Saudi company MOZN. No startup programme or open intake is published.
- Terms: Yes — equity
- Amount: No published startup programme
- Primary source: https://www.humain.com/

### Imad Ventures (Nesma & Partners)
- Type: Corporate venture capital (construction technology) (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/imad-ventures-nesma-and-partners/
- Website: https://imadventures.com/
- What you get: Corporate VC of Nesma & Partners; Pre-Seed to Series A construction-tech investments.
- Who can apply: Construction-tech startups at Pre-Seed to Series A; focus includes the Middle East.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Corporate venture capital arm of Nesma & Partners, the Saudi integrated projects group, operating from Riyadh. Initiated in 2023, formally established in 2024 and investing since 2025, it invests in Pre-Seed, Seed and Series A construction technology startups across the construction value chain and in construction technology funds, with a geographical focus on North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia; Nesma & Partners Group is the sole limited partner. Portfolio companies get real pilots on Nesma & Partners projects and introductions to decision-makers. The portfolio includes Gravis Robotics, Neuron Factory, Track3D, Kaya AI, Enlaye and TruBuild, plus a strategic fund commitment to Fifth Wall. Founders submit proposals through the contact page; ticket sizes are not published.
- Eligibility: Pre-Seed, Seed and Series A construction technology startups across the construction value chain · geographical focus North America, Europe, the Middle East and Asia
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://imadventures.com/ · checked October 2026

### LAB7 (Aramco)
- Type: Corporate venture builder — strategic minority investor (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/lab7-aramco/
- Website: https://lab7.com.sa/
- Apply: https://lab7.com.sa/lab7-startup-application
- What you get: Aramco's deeptech venture builder: funding, labs and market access for early startups.
- Who can apply: Early-stage deeptech startups with product validation and completed lab tests.
- Cost: Equity — minority stake
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026) — source: “Where is the startup incorporated?” (https://lab7.com.sa/lab7-startup-application)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Aramco's deeptech venture builder, with a purpose-built facility in Dhahran. It backs early-stage deeptech startups at the intersection of technology and industrial transformation that have achieved initial product validation and completed lab tests, taking a minority equity stake in exchange for funding and in-kind contributions: joint product development, specialised infrastructure (115+ pieces of equipment) and market access. Pillars: manufacturing, digital, sustainability.
- Eligibility: Early-stage deeptech startups with initial product validation and completed lab tests (pre- or early commercialisation)
- Terms: Minority equity stake in exchange for funding and in-kind contributions
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://lab7.com.sa/ · checked October 2026

### NEOM Investment Fund
- Type: Corporate VC (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/neom-investment-fund/
- Website: https://www.neom.com/en-us/our-business/sectors/health-and-wellbeing
- What you get: NEOM’s investment fund.
- Status: Active
- Summary: NEOM Investment Fund, NEOM’s investment arm — it has partnered with Paradromics to advance brain-computer interface innovation.
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://www.neom.com/en-us/our-business/sectors/health-and-wellbeing · checked October 2026

### NEOV — NeoVentures (SNB)
- Type: Corporate venture capital (bank) (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/neov-neoventures-snb/
- Website: https://neov.sa/
- Apply: https://forms.gle/dsoNR7Hg9HYni7m26
- What you get: Pre-Seed to Series A investment in fintech and lifestyle startups from SNB’s venture arm.
- Who can apply: Digital startups in Saudi Arabia, and global startups localising into Saudi Arabia.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Saudi Arabia — source: “Localizing Global Startups into KSA” (https://neov.sa/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Strategic investment and venture-building arm of The Saudi National Bank (SNB), investing in digital startups from Pre-Seed to Series A in fintech and lifestyle. It invests in Saudi startups, localises global startups into Saudi Arabia and supports Saudi startups expanding abroad; startups it backs get access to SNB’s clients and markets, SNB banking services and SNB’s operational capacity. Not the same as NeoVentures (Mashreq) in the UAE.
- Eligibility: Digital startups in fintech and lifestyle, Pre-Seed to Series A, in Saudi Arabia or international
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Pre-Seed to Series A · ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://neov.sa/ · checked October 2026

### Prosperity7 (Aramco)
- Type: Corporate VC (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/prosperity7-aramco/
- Website: https://www.prosperity7vc.com/
- What you get: Equity investment from a $3B fund.
- Who can apply: Global early to growth-stage tech companies, all sectors.
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- Status: Active
- Summary: Aramco Ventures diversified growth fund — $3B (expanded from $1B, Jan 2024), investing globally from six offices in deep tech, robotics, mobility, security tech, cloud and foodtech.
- Eligibility: Global early to growth-stage companies — all tech sectors
- Terms: Yes — equity stake
- Amount: $3B fund
- Primary source: https://www.prosperity7vc.com/ · checked October 2026

### SABIC Ventures
- Type: Corporate VC (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sabic-ventures/
- Website: https://ventures.sabic.com/
- Apply: mailto:ventures@sabic.com
- What you get: Early-stage equity tickets.
- Who can apply: Founders who open with a non-confidential introduction by email; five-step process.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Corporate venturing arm of SABIC — early-stage investments in technologies aligned with SABIC's strategy: circular economy, energy transition, differentiated materials. Offers technical and commercial guidance, access to global markets and infrastructure. Clear founder-facing investment process.
- Eligibility: Start with a non-confidential introduction of your technology by email — five-step process: exploration, non-binding term sheet, due diligence, investment agreement, continued collaboration
- Terms: Yes — equity stake
- Amount: Early-stage tickets
- Primary source: https://ventures.sabic.com/ · checked October 2026

### Scene Holding
- Type: Investment holding / corporate investor (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/scene-holding/
- Website: https://scene.com.sa/
- What you get: Venture building and proactive investment.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Saudi holding company, established in 2019, that invests through venture building and proactive investments in three verticals - fintech, real estate and creative & culture - complemented by strategic direct investments.
- Amount: Stage and cheque size not published
- Primary source: https://scene.com.sa/ · checked October 2026

### SRMG Ventures
- Type: Corporate venture capital (media group) (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/srmg-ventures/
- Website: https://srmg.vc/
- Apply: mailto:hello@srmg.vc
- What you get: Corporate VC of the Saudi Research & Media Group: seed to Series B media and content tech.
- Who can apply: Early-stage media, media-tools and immersive entertainment start-ups; email all year.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026) — source: “Our submission process is open and available to you throughout the year.” (https://srmg.vc/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Corporate venture capital arm of the Saudi Research & Media Group (SRMG), launched in March 2023 and announced from Riyadh, where the group has its headquarters. It mainly invests in early-stage start-ups from seed to Series B in media creators, digital media, media enablers and tools including generative AI, and immersive and interactive entertainment, and describes its focus as high-potential companies and founders in content creation, data and ad-tech. Portfolio companies include Telfaz11 (Riyadh), VUZ (Dubai) and Anghami (Abu Dhabi). The minimum investment size is not fixed; submissions are open throughout the year by email.
- Eligibility: Early-stage start-ups from seed to Series B in media creators, digital media, media enablers and tools, and immersive and interactive entertainment
- Terms: Equity — terms not published
- Amount: Ticket size not fixed — each opportunity evaluated individually
- Primary source: https://srmg.vc/

### tali ventures
- Type: Corporate VC (stc Group) (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/tali-ventures/
- Website: https://tali.vc/
- Apply: https://tali.vc/content/tali/us/en/apply-for-fund.html
- What you get: Corporate equity investment via stc Group.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Saudi Arabia — source: “Regional and global investment opportunities” (https://tali.vc/content/tali/us/en/home.html)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Corporate venture capital arm of stc group (unveiled Mar 2024). SPA-confirmed portfolio includes Nile, Rewaa and NearPay; co-invests alongside Sanabil and Prosperity7. Access to stc group's ecosystem and market reach. Own website: tali.vc.
- Amount: Corporate VC of stc — fund size not published
- Primary source: https://tali.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Wa'ed Ventures
- Type: Corporate VC (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/waed-ventures/
- Website: https://www.waed.com/
- Apply: https://edda-dealflow.waed.com/externalapi/submit-widget/embed/FsfsbswfxCkuDWDQC2qy/saudi_aramco
- What you get: Equity cheques up to $20M from a $500M fund, seed to growth stage.
- Who can apply: Seed to growth-stage startups (lifecycle investor).
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Aramco's $500M VC fund + $100M dedicated AI allocation. $320M+ deployed across 100+ portfolio companies; cheques up to $20M, Seed to Series C. Targets startups that can localize in Saudi.
- Eligibility: Seed to growth-stage lifecycle investor
- Terms: Yes — equity stake
- Amount: $500M fund (expanded 2022) · up to $20M per deal · $100M early-stage AI allocation (2024) · $320M+ deployed in 100+ portfolio companies
- Primary source: https://www.waed.com/ · checked October 2026

### X by Unifonic
- Type: Corporate Venture Capital / Venture Studio (Corporate VC) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/x-by-unifonic/
- Website: https://www.unifonicx.com/
- What you get: Investment, co-building or a three-month accelerator out of a $26.6M fund.
- Who can apply: Early-stage SaaS startups in MENA with a strong team and a large market.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture arm of Saudi communications-platform company Unifonic, running a $26.6M Venture Studio and Accelerator Fund for SaaS startups in MENA. Three routes: fund investment, co-building in the studio, and a three-month accelerator.
- Eligibility: Early-stage SaaS startups with a strong team, a clear vision and a large addressable market
- Amount: $26.6M Venture Studio & Accelerator Fund - early stage; cheque size, equity and programme terms not published
- Primary source: https://www.unifonicx.com/ · checked October 2026

### SIC - SIDF Investment Company
- Type: State-linked industrial investment company (State equity) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sic-sidf-investment-company/
- Website: https://www.sic-sa.com/
- Apply: https://www.sic-sa.com/become-partner
- What you get: Direct investment, private equity, private credit and an early-stage line.
- Who can apply: Industrial companies in mining, industry, logistics and energy.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Saudi Arabia — source: “We partner with local and international businesses to provide capital and expertise, helping them scale, innovate, and contribute to the Kingdom's economic diversification” (https://www.sic-sa.com/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Investment company named SIDF Investment Company, investing to grow and transform Saudi Arabia's industrial sector. It runs direct investments, private equity, private credit and an early-stage line, and is an investor in the Growth Catalyst Fund.
- Amount: Ticket and fund size not published
- Primary source: https://www.sic-sa.com/ · checked October 2026

### Amad for Entrepreneurs (alinma bank)
- Type: Bank loan programme (interest-free) (Loan) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/amad-for-entrepreneurs-alinma-bank/
- Website: https://alinma.com/About-the-Bank/Amad/Amad-to-support-entrepreneurs
- What you get: Interest-free loan (qard hasan) of SAR 200,000, plus a bootcamp and a year of mentoring.
- Who can apply: Bridge/Seed startups registered in Saudi Arabia with proven sales or revenue.
- Cost: No equity — interest-free loan
- Status: Active
- Summary: Interest-free loan programme (qard hasan) of alinma bank, Riyadh, run in partnership with BIM and in cooperation with Wadi Al Athar Finance. Startups at Bridge or Seed stage that are legally registered in Saudi Arabia, with proven sales or revenue and a product or service ready to scale, apply with a pitch deck, financial statements, 12–24-month projections and a plan for using the loan. Candidates go through evaluation and interviews and a three-day bootcamp; those who pass the final assessment receive an interest-free loan of SAR 200,000, followed by a year of mentoring. Closing an investment round or other investment improves the chance of being shortlisted. The programme page invites registration and enquiries by email; no deadline or online form is published.
- Eligibility: Startups at Bridge or Seed stage, past pre-seed with initial proof of success · proven sales or revenue and a product or service ready to scale · legally registered in Saudi Arabia · founder fully committed and attends the bootcamp
- Terms: No equity — interest-free loan (qard hasan)
- Amount: Interest-free loan (qard hasan) of SAR 200,000
- Primary source: https://alinma.com/About-the-Bank/Amad/Amad-to-support-entrepreneurs · checked October 2026

### Kafalah — SME Financing Guarantee Program
- Type: Loan guarantee (Loan) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/kafalah-sme-financing-guarantee-program/
- Website: https://kafalah.gov.sa/en/
- What you get: Guarantee of up to 80% of a bank loan; up to 90–95% under start-up and sector products.
- Who can apply: SMEs and startups seeking bank financing in Saudi Arabia.
- Cost: No equity — loan guarantee
- Status: Active
- Summary: National loan-guarantee programme (founded 1425 AH by Ministry of Finance decision) easing SME access to bank financing — guarantees up to 80% of the financing under its Regular product, up to 90% under the Start-Up Enterprises product (enterprises up to three years old) and several sector products, and up to 95% for Awqaf & Non-Profit — under the Regular and Start-Up products capped at SAR 2.5M for micro, 5M for small and 15M for medium enterprises. By September 2024 it had backed over SAR 100 billion in financing for more than 23,000 enterprises (64,494 guarantees worth SAR 72.5 billion). Managed by the Saudi Industrial Development Fund as a joint initiative of the Ministry of Finance and cooperating commercial banks; enterprises apply to a cooperating financier directly or through the finance portal supervised by the SME Bank.
- Eligibility: SMEs and startups seeking bank financing in Saudi Arabia
- Terms: No equity
- Amount: Guarantee of up to 80% of the financing (Regular product) · up to 90% (Start-Up and sector products) · up to 95% (Awqaf & Non-Profit) · max SAR 2.5M / 5M / 15M by enterprise size · a debt guarantee, not funding
- Primary source: https://kafalah.gov.sa/en/ · checked October 2026

### SIDF Promising Factories Initiative (soft loans)
- Type: Government soft-loan initiative (industrial) (Loan) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sidf-promising-factories-initiative-soft-loans/
- Website: https://www.sidf.gov.sa/en/Initiatives/Industrial-Sector-Support-Initiative/Promising-Factories
- Apply: https://eloan.sidf.gov.sa/mim/pfi
- What you get: Soft loans for up to 50% of an industrial project’s cost; 24-month grace, tenor up to 10 years.
- Who can apply: Graduates of SIDF partner industrial incubators and SMEs qualified by MIMR programmes.
- Cost: No equity — soft loan
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026) — source: “Entrepreneurs who graduate from Industrial Incubators.” (https://www.sidf.gov.sa/en/Initiatives/Industrial-Sector-Support-Initiative/Promising-Factories)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Soft-loan initiative of the Saudi Industrial Development Fund (SIDF, King Abdullah Financial District, Riyadh) that lets entrepreneurs with lower net worth obtain funding and start an industrial activity in National Industrial Strategy sectors. Through its Industrial Business Incubator Program, SIDF partners with incubators and accelerators to lend to their qualified industrial entrepreneurs; SMEs qualified by the Ministry of Industry and Mineral Resources' investment programmes are the second channel. Phase 1 (soft loans) funds up to 50% of the project cost, with 20% of the loan paid in advance, a grace period of up to 24 months and a tenor of up to 10 years; the client secures the rest of the project value. A second phase is to be announced.
- Eligibility: Entrepreneurs who graduate from SIDF partner industrial incubators, and SMEs qualified by MIMR investment programmes · project in National Industrial Strategy sectors, economically feasible in SIDF’s evaluation and adding local content · feasibility study and implementation plan · the client secures the share of the project value the initiative does not finance
- Terms: No equity — soft loan
- Amount: Soft loan for up to 50% of the project cost · 20% advance disbursement · grace period up to 24 months · tenor up to 10 years
- Primary source: https://www.sidf.gov.sa/en/Initiatives/Industrial-Sector-Support-Initiative/Promising-Factories · checked October 2026

### SME Bank (Small and Medium Enterprise Bank)
- Type: Government SME lender — via partner financing institutions (Loan) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sme-bank-small-and-medium-enterprise-bank/
- Website: https://smebank.gov.sa/en
- Apply: https://tamweel.smebank.gov.sa/
- What you get: Government SME bank; loans through partner banks, finance firms and crowdfunding.
- Who can apply: Saudi micro, small and medium enterprises (micro: revenue up to SAR 3M).
- Cost: Loan — repayable
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026) — source: “Micro Enterprises Revenues 0 - 3,000,000 SAR” (https://smebank.gov.sa/en)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Saudi government bank established in 2021 by Council of Ministers resolution as the umbrella for SME financing — debt financing, equity financing and loan guarantees. It finances micro, small and medium enterprises through partner financing institutions and crowdfunding platforms; its Funding Platform connects SMEs with those institutions.
- Eligibility: Micro (revenue SAR 0–3M), small (SAR 3–40M) and medium (SAR 40–200M) enterprises
- Amount: Loan sizes set by the partner institutions; not published
- Primary source: https://smebank.gov.sa/en · checked October 2026

### Social Development Bank (SDB)
- Type: Government development bank (Loan) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/social-development-bank-sdb/
- Website: https://www.sdb.gov.sa/en/facilities-financing/financing-entrepreneurs
- Apply: https://lending.sdb.gov.sa/product-overview/80d2ab51-9106-2f74-41fb-39ffd9b67ddc
- What you get: Loans of SAR 50,000–500,000, repayment up to 9 years, grace period up to 12 months.
- Who can apply: Saudi nationals aged 21–65 owning 100% of a project registered in the last 12 months.
- Cost: No equity — 9% administrative fee, 2% annual service fee
- From abroad: Nationals or residents of Saudi Arabia — Applicant must be a Saudi national aged 21 to 65 who owns 100% of the project — source: “The applicant must be of Saudi nationality.” (https://www.sdb.gov.sa/en/facilities-financing/financing-entrepreneurs)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Saudi government bank. Its Entrepreneurs Financing is a long-term loan for the assets and operating costs of entrepreneurship projects and startups, applied for fully online. Projects qualify as new (idea or feasibility stage, or a commercial registration up to 6 months old), under formation or start-up (registration more than 6 and up to 12 months old); disbursement is 70% then 30%. Conditions include Saudi nationality, age 21 to 65, 100% ownership of the project, full-time dedication, a partner training course and an interview. A separate Excellence Financing offers up to SAR 4 million for innovative or technical projects.
- Eligibility: Saudi nationals aged 21-65 who own 100% of the project · commercial registration no older than 12 months · activity on the list the Bank supports · not employed elsewhere · up to two guarantors
- Terms: No equity - loan with 9% administrative fees and 2% annual service fees
- Amount: SAR 50,000-500,000 · repayment up to 9 years (108 months) · grace period up to 12 months
- Primary source: https://www.sdb.gov.sa/en/facilities-financing/financing-entrepreneurs · checked October 2026

### Jada Fund of Funds
- Type: Fund of Funds (Fund of funds) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/jada-fund-of-funds/
- Website: https://www.jada.com.sa/
- What you get: Commits capital to VC funds; founders reach it through the 47 funds it backs.
- Who can apply: VC fund managers with a Vision 2030-aligned thesis and Saudi pipeline.
- Cost: Indirect — invests in funds, not startups
- Status: Active
- Summary: PIF-backed fund of funds investing in venture capital, private equity and private debt funds across Saudi Arabia — SAR 3.5B+ in total investment commitments, SAR 1.1B deployed across 47 portfolio funds reaching 700+ SMEs and 19K+ jobs. Figures are commitments into funds, not AUM. Runs an Emerging Manager Program for Saudi-focused fund managers.
- Eligibility: Fund managers with a Vision 2030-aligned thesis, a proven track record, a clear commitment to investing in Saudi Arabia and a Saudi deal pipeline — proposals via the online form on jada.com.sa
- Terms: Via VC funds
- Amount: SAR 3.5B+ commitments · SAR 1.1B deployed · 47 portfolio funds
- Also backs (named on its own site; no GCC base, so not on the map): Arbor Ventures, Emkan Capital
- Primary source: https://www.jada.com.sa/ · checked October 2026

### Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Type: Fund of Funds (Fund of funds) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/saudi-venture-capital-svc/
- Website: https://svc.com.sa/en/
- What you get: Commits up to 65% of fund capital to VC managers; also runs a Direct Investments arm.
- Who can apply: VC fund managers, and Saudi-based or Saudi-expanding startups via Direct Investments.
- Cost: Equity — via funds, or direct from SAR 1M (≤30% of a round)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Government venture capital arm of Saudi Arabia — a subsidiary of the SME Bank under the National Development Fund (NDF), est. 2018. Backs 65 private capital funds and 1000+ startups and SMEs.
- Eligibility: Fund managers — VC (incl. accelerator and studio funds), PE, venture debt and private debt, pre-seed to pre-IPO; SVC contributes up to 65% of a fund, with Saudi government-affiliated capital capped at 65% in aggregate. Startups reach SVC through the funds it backs or via its Direct Investments programme for Saudi-based startups and SMEs and companies expanding to Saudi Arabia
- Terms: Via VC funds, or direct investment (SVC contributes at most 30% of each round)
- Amount: Direct investments: minimum ticket SAR 1,000,000 ($267K), SVC at most 30% of each round · fund commitments up to 65% of a fund
- Also backs (named on its own site; no GCC base, so not on the map): BITKRAFT Ventures, Emkan Capital, ICONIQ, Lead Edge Capital, Portage, Techstars, The Treasury, Valor Capital Group
- Primary source: https://svc.com.sa/en/ · checked October 2026

### Fintech Saudi - Makken
- Type: Fintech enablement programme (central-bank initiative) (Support) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/fintech-saudi-makken/
- Website: https://fintechsaudi.sa/en-us/makken/Pages/default.aspx
- Apply: https://form.jotform.com/232704560410041
- What you get: Subsidised cloud and cybersecurity services for early-stage fintechs.
- Who can apply: Saudi-registered, majority Saudi-owned fintechs with SAMA or CMA approval, max SAR 10M raised.
- Cost: No equity — subsidised services
- From abroad: Nationals or residents of Saudi Arabia — Registered in Saudi Arabia with majority Saudi ownership; Approval, permission or licence to operate from SAMA or CMA — source: “Have a majority Saudi ownership” (https://form.jotform.com/232704560410041)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Fintech Saudi was launched by the Saudi Central Bank in partnership with the Capital Market Authority in April 2018 to develop the fintech industry in Saudi Arabia. Its Makken programme is a one-stop shop for technology enablement: cloud infrastructure set up within 72 hours for new fintechs, managed cloud and cybersecurity services, brand protection and security training, with a subsidy for early-stage fintechs. Fintech Saudi also runs office hours, meetups with the regulators and a regulatory assessment tool; its own accelerator page reads "Coming soon".
- Eligibility: Registered in Saudi Arabia · no more than SAR 10 million raised · majority Saudi ownership · principle approval, permission or licence to operate from SAMA or CMA
- Terms: No equity - subsidised services
- Amount: Subsidised technology services (in-kind) - subsidy value not published
- Primary source: https://fintechsaudi.sa/ · checked October 2026

### iMENA Holding
- Type: Digital Holdco / Benchmark (Support) · Country: Saudi Arabia
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/imena-holding/
- Website: https://imena.com/
- Apply: https://imena.com/our-philosophy/#section_submit_form
- What you get: Company builder; raised $135M pre-IPO from Sanabil Investments, FJ Labs and Saygin Yalcin.
- Who can apply: Teams building innovative online platforms — proposals via the form on imena.com.
- Cost: Terms not published
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Company builder and investor (Riyadh CJSC after restructuring) behind OpenSooq, SellAnyCar and Jeeny, with Telr and the Rua Growth Fund in its portfolio. Raised $135M in a first pre-IPO tranche of private placement and in-kind contributions from Sanabil Investments, FJ Labs and Saygin Yalcin. Backs teams building online platforms and takes founder proposals through a form on its site.
- Terms: Terms not published
- Amount: $135M pre-IPO capital raise — private placement and in-kind contributions, from Sanabil Investments, FJ Labs and Saygin Yalcin
- Primary source: https://imena.com/ · checked October 2026

## UAE — 114 programmes

### 500 Global UAE
- Type: Accelerator + VC (Accelerator) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/500-global-uae/
- Website: https://500.co/mena
- Apply: https://mena.aplica.500.co/
- What you get: Equity investment of US$100,000+ through the Sanabil Accelerator by 500 Global.
- Who can apply: MENA-focused tech startups with an MVP and early traction.
- Cost: Equity; Phase 1 programme fee US$35,000
- From abroad: Within the region: MENA-focused startups (Middle East and North Africa) — source: “Focused on the Middle Eastern and North African region (MENA)” (https://500.co/founders/mena/seed-accelerator)
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Active MENA investor since 2012 — MENA HQ in Riyadh.
- Amount: US$100,000+ equity investment via the Sanabil Accelerator
- Primary source: https://500.co/mena · checked October 2026

### Catalyst
- Type: CleanTech accelerator + investment fund (Masdar City × bp) (Accelerator) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/catalyst/
- Website: https://catalyst.ae/
- Apply: https://catalyst.ae/apply-now
- What you get: Seed funding as SAFE notes, pre-seed and seed.
- Who can apply: Local and international cleantech and sustainability startups.
- Cost: Convertible — converts to equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Must set up / establish the company in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi to expand into the MENA region — source: “Global (with a mandate to setup the company in Masdar City to expand the business to MENA region)” (https://catalyst.ae/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Clean-tech startup accelerator and early-stage investment platform backed by Masdar City and BP, based in Masdar City, Abu Dhabi. 20 startups graduated, 15 investments through the programme and 3 direct investments (SAFE notes, pre-seed and seed).
- Eligibility: CleanTech and sustainability startups, local and international
- Terms: Convertible — capital can convert to equity
- Amount: Seed funding — SAFE notes, pre-seed and seed
- Primary source: https://catalyst.ae/ · checked October 2026

### DIFC Innovation Hub — Fintech Accelerator
- Type: Accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/difc-innovation-hub-fintech-accelerator/
- Website: https://innovationhub.difc.ae/accelerators
- What you get: Regulatory sandbox access and programme support for fintech startups.
- Who can apply: FinTech, InsurTech and RegTech startups globally.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- Status: Closed
- Summary: DIFC's fintech accelerator, run under the DIFC Innovation Hub (formerly FinTech Hive). Common law, DFSA regulation, direct bank and VC access.
- Eligibility: FinTech, InsurTech, RegTech startups globally
- Terms: No equity
- Amount: Programme support + regulatory sandbox
- Primary source: https://innovationhub.difc.ae/accelerators · checked October 2026

### Disrupt.com
- Type: Venture builder — co-founding programme (EIR and FIR tracks) (Accelerator) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/disrupt-com/
- Website: https://www.disrupt.com/
- Apply: https://www.disrupt.com/co-found
- What you get: Venture builder that co-founds AI-first ventures and funds them from its own balance sheet.
- Who can apply: Individual founders (EIR/FIR tracks); existing startups that fit one of its clusters.
- Cost: Equity — shared equity, terms by track and stage
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside the UAE — source: “We build globally and our founders build from wherever they are. Dubai is home base, and you are always welcome, never required.” (https://www.disrupt.com/co-found)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: UAE-headquartered, operator-led venture builder with Dubai as home base. It co-founds AI-first ventures with founders and funds them from its own balance sheet — no fund, no LPs — from $350K at MVP stage up to $1–2M in acceleration, released as the venture proves each stage. Founders apply as individuals (entrepreneur- or founder-in-residence tracks); existing startups can apply if they fit one of its clusters.
- Eligibility: Individual founders; existing startups if they fit one of its clusters
- Terms: Shared equity; framework depends on track and stage
- Amount: $350K–$2M per venture, released by stage
- Primary source: https://www.disrupt.com/ · checked October 2026

### Hamdan Innovation Incubator (Hi2)
- Type: Government incubator (16 weeks) (Accelerator) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/hamdan-innovation-incubator-hi2/
- Website: https://www.dubaifoundershq.com/en/launch-your-business/incubators-in-dubai/hamdan-innovation-incubator/hi2-incubator-programme
- What you get: Free 16-week tech incubator with mentoring and investor introductions; no cash amount.
- Who can apply: UAE residents 18+ with an Emirati co-founder and a tech idea or MVP under two years old.
- Cost: No cost to join — equity not published
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Dubai SME's incubator for Emirati founders, established in 2014 and integrated into Dubai Founders HQ in July 2026. Its 16-week technology incubator takes a cohort of around 20 Emirati founders from an early idea or MVP to an investable company: a validated business model and tested MVP, a go-to-market plan and direct introductions to active regional investors. Sessions run online and in person at Dubai Founders HQ; no cost to join if accepted. The current edition closed applications on 31 August, starts in October 2026 and ends with a Demo Day in February.
- Eligibility: UAE residents aged 18 or over · at least one Emirati co-founder or team member · a tech idea or MVP less than two years old · commitment to all 16 weeks, including in-person sessions
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Programme support - no cash amount published; no cost to join if accepted
- Primary source: https://www.dubaifoundershq.com/en/launch-your-business/incubators-in-dubai/hamdan-innovation-incubator/hi2-incubator-programme · checked October 2026

### Hub71
- Type: Tech Ecosystem / Accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/hub71/
- Website: https://www.hub71.com/
- Apply: https://www.hub71.com/program/access-programme/apply
- What you get: AED 250K in-kind plus AED 250K cash via SAFE note; AED 250K top-up for high performers.
- Who can apply: Pre-Seed to Series A startups with at least one founder relocating to Abu Dhabi.
- Cost: Equity — via SAFE note
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — At least one founder of accepted startups expected to relocate long-term and build a team in Abu Dhabi — source: “To benefit from the programme and the Abu Dhabi ecosystem, at least one founder of the start-ups accepted to the Access Programme is expected to move to Abu Dhabi.” (https://www.hub71.com/program/access-programme/apply)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Abu Dhabi's global tech ecosystem, backed by Mubadala and ADDED, based in ADGM. Access Programme: AED 250,000 of flexible incentives plus AED 250,000 in cash for equity via SAFE note; high-performing startups committed to Abu Dhabi can receive a top-up of AED 250,000 for additional equity. Cohort 21 applications open — deadline February 2027, programme starts September 2027. Also runs Initiate (ideation and pre-MVP founders) and the MZN x Hub71 programme with the Khalifa Fund for Emirati founders. Specialist tracks for AI, Web3, ClimateTech.
- Eligibility: Pre-Seed to Series A; at least one founder relocating to Abu Dhabi
- Terms: Yes — via SAFE note
- Amount: AED 250K in-kind + AED 250K cash via SAFE note · top-up of AED 250K for additional equity for high-performing startups (Access Programme)
- Primary source: https://www.hub71.com/ · checked October 2026

### in5 Dubai
- Type: Incubator (Accelerator) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/in5-dubai/
- Website: https://infive.ae/
- Apply: https://infive.ae/setup/apply/
- What you get: Subsidized business licence and coworking workspace.
- Who can apply: Early-stage tech, media and design startups.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Team must be based in Dubai if the application is approved — source: “No, all nationalities are welcome to submit to the in5 programme.” (https://infive.ae/faqs/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Dubai zero-equity startup incubator. An enabling platform for 500+ startups and entrepreneurs since 2013. Subsidized licenses, visas, coworking and labs for tech, media, design.
- Eligibility: Early-stage startups — tech, media, design
- Terms: No equity
- Amount: Subsidized license + workspace — no equity
- Primary source: https://infive.ae/ · checked October 2026

### Innovate For Tomorrow (Dubai Holding)
- Type: Corporate impact accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/innovate-for-tomorrow-dubai-holding/
- Website: https://innovate-for-tomorrow.dubaiholding.com/
- What you get: AED 500,000 to the winner plus a funded UAE pilot; runners-up AED 250,000 and AED 100,000.
- Who can apply: Pre-seed to pre-Series A scale-ups with an MVP willing to pilot in the UAE.
- Cost: No equity — prize plus funded pilot
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Dubai Holding's flagship impact accelerator for circular-economy scale-ups. In the 2025 edition, 15 shortlisted scale-ups were chosen from over 1,400 submissions across 93 countries; the winner received AED 500,000 plus a fully-funded pilot inside Dubai Holding's ecosystem.
- Eligibility: Scale-ups with MVP/traction, pre-seed to pre-Series A, willing to pilot in the UAE
- Terms: No equity (prize + pilot)
- Amount: Winner AED 500,000 + funded pilot · runners-up AED 250,000 and AED 100,000 (2025 edition)
- Primary source: https://innovate-for-tomorrow.dubaiholding.com/ · checked October 2026

### Intelak
- Type: Corporate accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/intelak/
- Website: https://intelak.com/
- Apply: https://intelak.com/accelerator/
- What you get: AED 50K equity-free grant.
- Who can apply: Travel, aviation and tourism startups globally.
- Cost: No equity — grant
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Aviation, travel or tourism tech; Implementation in Dubai; Accelerator: growth-stage with at least 2 full-time team members — source: “Your start-up can be based in any geographic location, but see a strategic fit in implementing your solution In Dubai” (https://intelak.com/incubator/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Aviation and travel tech accelerator in Dubai backed by Emirates Group and Microsoft. AED 50,000 grant per selected startup; up to 5 startups per cohort.
- Eligibility: Travel, aviation, tourism startups globally
- Terms: No equity
- Amount: AED 50K equity-free grant
- Primary source: https://intelak.com/ · checked October 2026

### NQubator
- Type: Incubator / accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/nqubator/
- Website: https://www.nqubator.com/
- Apply: https://www.nqubator.com/contact
- What you get: Incubation and acceleration programmes; Digital Commerce Cohort.
- Who can apply: Startups; criteria vary by cohort.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Dubai startup incubator and accelerator. Its 12-week Digital Commerce Cohort, fully supported by Dubai CommerCity, starts 26 October 2026; founders apply to its incubation or acceleration programmes through the Entrepreneur Application.
- Eligibility: Criteria vary by cohort
- Terms: Programme-dependent
- Amount: Incubation + investor referral pipeline
- Primary source: https://www.nqubator.com/ · checked October 2026

### Plug and Play Abu Dhabi
- Type: Corporate Accelerator + VC (Accelerator) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/plug-and-play-abu-dhabi/
- Website: https://www.plugandplaytechcenter.com/locations/abu-dhabi
- What you get: Accelerator programme with potential VC investment.
- Who can apply: Startups in FinTech, HealthTech, Industry 4.0 or AI.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Silicon Valley innovation platform with an Abu Dhabi base at ADGM Square, Al Maryah Island; its Abu Dhabi Fintech programme launched in 2018. Runs accelerator programmes with corporate partners across FinTech, HealthTech and Industry 4.0.
- Eligibility: Startups in FinTech, HealthTech, Industry 4.0, AI
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Programme + VC investment
- Primary source: https://www.plugandplaytechcenter.com/locations/abu-dhabi · checked October 2026

### Presight AI Accelerator
- Type: Corporate AI accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/presight-ai-accelerator/
- Website: https://www.presight.ai/accelerator
- What you get: Six-month accelerator with a $50K in-kind SAFE note; no working application link today.
- Who can apply: Post-prototype AI startups with demonstrated sales, worldwide.
- Cost: SAFE — $50K in kind, no discount or cap
- Status: Active
- Summary: Abu Dhabi accelerator from Presight (ADX-listed, G42-majority). Six-month programme that fast-tracks applied-AI startups into enterprise and government pilots via Presight and G42; cohort size 10.
- Eligibility: Post-prototype, market-ready AI startups with demonstrated sales (global); no UAE entity required
- Terms: SAFE note issued by Presight itself — in kind, no discount, no cap
- Amount: $50K in-kind SAFE note — no discount, no valuation cap; conditional on at least one joint contract with Presight/G42 within twelve months
- Primary source: https://www.presight.ai/accelerator · checked October 2026

### Sheraa
- Type: Accelerator + Incubator (Accelerator) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sheraa/
- Website: https://www.sheraa.ae/
- Apply: https://sheraa.fillout.com/t/bmvzkKbu9Xus
- What you get: Equity-free ERF grants from an AED 5M fund plus programmes.
- Who can apply: UAE startups and SMEs; ERF needs 1+ year of operations in resilience-critical sectors.
- Cost: No equity — grant
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Presence in the UAE required for onboarding, demo days and showcase opportunities; Must obtain a business license in Sharjah for at least two years — source: “You are required to obtain a business license in Sharjah for at least two years.” (https://www.asc.sheraa.ae/s3-program)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Sharjah's startup hub (Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center) — 670+ startups supported; incubated startups have raised 1.14B in capital (site). Programmes: Startup Blueprint, Startup Dojo, Sharjah Startup Studio (S3), Sharjah Women Impact Fellowship and the Access Sharjah Challenge (2025 edition: AED 250,000 POC contract). Runs the AED 5M Entrepreneurs Resilience Fund with equity-free grants.
- Eligibility: Programmes from aspiring founders to growth-stage startups; ERF: UAE startups and SMEs with 1+ years of operations in sectors critical to national resilience
- Terms: No equity for ERF grants; programme terms not published
- Amount: Equity-free grants (Entrepreneurs Resilience Fund, AED 5M) + programme support
- Primary source: https://www.sheraa.ae/ · checked October 2026

### startAD
- Type: University-anchored accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/startad/
- Website: https://startad.ae/
- What you get: No direct investment published; corporate pilots via sprint accelerators.
- Who can apply: Early-stage local and international startups (sector varies by sprint).
- Cost: No equity — startAD does not invest in startups
- Status: Active
- Summary: Abu Dhabi accelerator powered by Tamkeen and anchored at NYU Abu Dhabi, running since 2016. Corporate Sprint Accelerators pair global startups with UAE industry partners for pilots; the AI for Good initiative with Google.org develops AI healthcare applications for the UAE and KSA. 428 tech startups accelerated.
- Eligibility: Early-stage local and international startups; sector focus varies by sprint
- Terms: No — startAD does not invest in startups
- Amount: No direct investment published — startAD connects startups to funding opportunities; corporate pilots via its Corporate Sprint Accelerators
- Primary source: https://startad.ae/ · checked October 2026

### 21 Ventures
- Type: Venture capital — pre-seed and seed (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/21-ventures/
- Website: https://www.21vc.com/
- What you get: Early-stage VC leading pre-seed and seed rounds across MENA, with a Dubai base.
- Who can apply: MENA tech founders in fintech, AI and industrials.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Early-stage venture capital fund investing in technology companies across the Middle East and North Africa, with bases in Dubai, New York and London. It leads pre-seed and seed rounds, likes to be the first cheque in, and focuses on financial technology, artificial intelligence and industrials; hands-on across go-to-market and distribution.
- Eligibility: MENA technology founders at pre-seed and seed
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.21vc.com/ · checked October 2026

### 212
- Type: Venture capital — B2B tech (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/212/
- Website: https://212.vc/
- Apply: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLScL5WgW5hZyMZes7hIidA5LQGSiay-fC6py8uBuclLIlmc8Hw/viewform
- What you get: VC backing B2B tech startups as they expand globally; presence in Dubai and Doha.
- Who can apply: B2B tech founders from Emerging Europe, Nexus markets and the diaspora.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: Founders from Emerging Europe, Nexus markets or the global diaspora; B2B tech — source: “We back founders from Emerging Europe and Nexus, and the global diaspora with the ambition to build category-defining companies” (https://212.vc/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture capital firm that has backed B2B tech startups for a decade, with a presence in Istanbul, London, Doha, Dubai and San Francisco. It backs founders from Emerging Europe, Nexus markets and the global diaspora as they expand beyond their home markets, combining capital with operational support and a global network.
- Eligibility: Founders from Emerging Europe, Nexus markets and the global diaspora
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://212.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Access Bridge Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/access-bridge-ventures/
- Website: https://access-bridge.com/
- What you get: Equity investment from a $35M fund.
- Who can apply: Pre-Series A startups across MENA and Pakistan with traction.
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- Status: Active
- Summary: Pre-Series A fund ($35M) investing across MENA and Pakistan — aims to be the first institutional investor and leads rounds. LPs include SVC and PIF's Jada Fund of Funds.
- Eligibility: Early-stage (pre-Series A) startups across MENAP with traction
- Terms: Yes — equity stake
- Amount: $35M fund
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://access-bridge.com/ · checked October 2026

### Ajeej Capital — Cabrit Venture Fund I
- Type: Venture capital — early stage (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/ajeej-capital-cabrit-venture-fund-i/
- Website: https://www.ajeej.com/venture-capital
- Apply: https://www.ajeej.com/venture-capital
- What you get: Ajeej Capital's early-stage fund for Bitcoin and blockchain startups (launched 2025).
- Who can apply: Bitcoin and blockchain founders with scalable revenue models.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture fund of Ajeej Capital, an investment manager founded in Riyadh and headquartered in the UAE (Ajeej Capital (DIFC) Limited, regulated by the DFSA). Launched in 2025, Cabrit Venture Fund I backs early-stage founders in the Bitcoin and blockchain ecosystem — 8+ founders so far — with strategic and operational support and an international network.
- Eligibility: Companies with scalable revenue models, robust unit economics and clear paths to profitability
- Amount: Fund size not published
- Primary source: https://www.ajeej.com/venture-capital · checked October 2026

### Annex Investments
- Type: Venture single-family office (VC + venture studio) (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/annex-investments/
- Website: https://annexinvestments.com/
- What you get: Early-stage venture funding with hands-on mentorship, Seed to Series A.
- Who can apply: Early-stage startups in the MENA region.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Abu Dhabi hybrid venture single-family office that blends the patient capital of a traditional single-family office with the high-growth strategies of a venture firm. Four pillars: venture capital, joint ventures and strategic partnerships, a proprietary venture studio, and market entry and advisory. Its venture investments provide early-stage funding for startups in the MENA region with hands-on mentorship and strategic guidance, from Seed to Series A; the portfolio shown on its site includes DTEK (formerly Dukkantek), ClearGrid, Holo, Keyper and Alma Health.
- Eligibility: Early-stage startups in the MENA region, Seed to Series A
- Terms: Yes — venture capital
- Amount: Seed to Series A · ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://annexinvestments.com/ · checked October 2026

### BECO Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/beco-capital/
- Website: https://www.becocapital.com/
- Apply: https://www.becocapital.com/contact
- What you get: $820M+ AUM across five funds, investing Pre-Seed to pre-IPO; cheque size not disclosed.
- Who can apply: Founders who pitch via the contact form, stating stage, industry, HQ and Gulf/Middle East presence.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: Region: Gulf and broader Middle East — source: “Since 2012, BECO Capital has invested in founders building technology companies across the Gulf and the broader Middle East.” (https://www.becocapital.com/about)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Dubai-based VC founded in 2012, located at One Central, Dubai World Trade Centre. Manages more than $820M across five funds and invests from pre-seed through to pre-IPO across the Gulf and the wider Middle East; also co-founds and incubates companies from inception. Portfolio includes Careem, Property Finder, Kitopi and Fresha.
- Eligibility: Founders pitch through the contact form on becocapital.com (Founder route: company stage, industry, HQ location, deck upload, whether the company operates in the Gulf/Middle East) · no stated cheque size or deadline
- Amount: $820M+ AUM across five funds · Pre-Seed to pre-IPO · cheque size not disclosed
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC), Dubai Future District Fund, Al Waha Fund of Funds
- Primary source: https://www.becocapital.com/ · checked October 2026

### Bunat Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/bunat-ventures/
- Website: https://bunat.vc/
- Apply: https://bunat.vc/contact/
- What you get: Equity investment.
- Who can apply: High-impact startups from early stage to Series B.
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Abu Dhabi venture firm registered in ADGM (24th floor, Al Sila Tower, Al Maryah Island) and regulated by the ADGM FSRA for managing a collective investment fund. Combines a Venture Studio (pre-seed and seed) with an operational VC model investing from early stage to Series B.
- Eligibility: High-impact startups from early stage to Series B; Venture Studio ideas at pre-seed and seed
- Terms: Yes — equity
- Amount: Fund size not published
- Primary source: https://bunat.vc/ · checked October 2026

### BYLD
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/byld/
- Website: https://www.byld.vc/
- What you get: Pre-seed and seed equity, leading rounds.
- Who can apply: Early founders (application form currently private).
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- Status: Active
- Summary: Dubai venture firm (Index Tower, DIFC) with offices in Muscat and London — an institutional VC that specialises in leading early-stage investments in startups across the Middle East and Africa and is the first name on the cap table in 80% of its investments. Fund I holdings tagged on the site include Sifi, Stitch, Stream and Aedilo (Saudi Arabia) and ClearGrid and Tern (UAE); 2026 investments include Vrtx and Nero (Saudi Arabia).
- Eligibility: Starting a start-up? — info@byld.vc (the Typeform linked from byld.vc is private)
- Terms: Yes — equity
- Amount: Pre-seed and seed — leads rounds · cheque size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Dubai Future District Fund
- Primary source: https://www.byld.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Constructor Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (global, early stage) (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/constructor-capital/
- Website: https://constructor.capital/
- Apply: https://constructor.capital/#contact-us
- What you get: Venture capital checks of up to $10M, pre-seed to Series A.
- Who can apply: Early-stage deep tech, software tech and knowledge tech startups.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Global venture capital fund of Constructor Group (founded in 2019 by Serg Bell and Stas Protasov) investing in early-stage startups in deep tech, software tech and knowledge tech, from pre-seed to Series A, with checks of up to $10 million. It lists Abu Dhabi among its locations, alongside Zurich, Barcelona, Singapore, Limassol and Seattle. Founders pitch through the 'Tell us about your startup' form on its site; the portfolio shown there includes Akhetonics, Basemark, Chainstack, Gcore and QuEra.
- Eligibility: Early-stage startups, pre-seed to Series A
- Terms: Yes — venture capital
- Amount: Up to $10 million per check · fund size not published
- Primary source: https://constructor.capital/ · checked October 2026

### COTU Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/cotu-ventures/
- Website: https://www.cotu.vc/
- What you get: Pre-seed and seed equity; initial cheques $150k–$2m.
- Who can apply: MENA founders at pre-seed and seed; COTU likes to be the first institutional cheque.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Pre-seed/seed specialist — 'Champions of the Underdog'.
- Amount: Pre-seed and seed · initial cheques $150k–$2m, more reserved for follow-on · fund size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Saudi Venture Capital (SVC), Dubai Future District Fund
- Primary source: https://www.cotu.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Fikr Ventures
- Type: Venture capital — seed-stage edtech (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/fikr-ventures/
- Website: https://www.fikr.vc/
- Apply: https://www.fikr.vc/apply
- What you get: Abu Dhabi seed-stage edtech VC with mentorship and school/university network access.
- Who can apply: Seed-stage edtech founders building for MENA.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: Building for MENA — source: “We're looking for bold founders building the future of education in MENA.” (https://www.fikr.vc/apply)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Abu Dhabi-based venture firm dedicated exclusively to seed-stage educational-technology startups. It provides seed funding to reach product-market fit and initial traction, mentorship, and access to decision-makers in schools, universities and policy; it looks for bold founders building the future of education in MENA and replies to applications within two weeks. Portfolio: Kutubee, AILA.
- Eligibility: Seed-stage edtech founders building for MENA
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.fikr.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Further Ventures
- Type: Venture builder + VC (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/further-ventures/
- Website: https://ventures.further.ae/
- What you get: Co-founder-style equity from formation to Series A, with reserved follow-on.
- Who can apply: Founders shaping financial and digital-asset markets.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Abu Dhabi venture builder and VC. Acts as institutional co-founder: funds companies from formation through Series A with reserved follow-on capital, and handles the full legal stack from incorporation and ESOP to regulatory filings and licensing. ADGM-regulated.
- Eligibility: Founders shaping financial and digital-asset markets
- Terms: Yes — terms not published
- Amount: Formation to Series A + reserved follow-on · fund size not published
- Primary source: https://ventures.further.ae/ · checked October 2026

### General Atlantic
- Type: Growth equity investor (global) (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/general-atlantic/
- Website: https://www.generalatlantic.com/
- What you get: Global growth investor; over $3B deployed in the Middle East since 2012, led eyewa’s Series C.
- Who can apply: Growth-stage companies.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Global growth investor — in its own words “the dedicated partner for entrepreneurs and investors building long-term value” — with offices in Abu Dhabi (ADGM, Al Maryah Island) and Riyadh, both opened in 2024. It has invested in the Middle East since 2012, with more than $3 billion deployed, and led the $100 million Series C of eyewa, the eyewear retailer founded in 2017 and headquartered in Riyadh and Dubai (November 2024).
- Eligibility: Growth-stage companies; criteria not published
- Terms: Equity — growth investments; terms not published
- Amount: Growth equity · ticket size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://www.generalatlantic.com/ · checked October 2026

### Global Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/global-ventures/
- Website: https://global.vc/
- Apply: https://form.typeform.com/to/uFZVBaao
- What you get: Equity from a $400M AUM fund backing growth-stage companies.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: UAE-based international venture capital firm partnering with growth-stage companies to scale across the Middle East, Africa and beyond — $400M AUM, founded 2018, 70+ portfolio companies across 12 markets (site).
- Amount: $400M AUM (site)
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC), Dubai Future District Fund
- Primary source: https://global.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Hashed
- Type: Venture Capital (blockchain, AI, frontier tech) (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/hashed/
- Website: https://www.hashed.com/
- What you get: Venture investment in AI, crypto and frontier tech.
- Who can apply: Founders building in AI, crypto and frontier tech, from day zero to global scale.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture firm founded in 2017 in Seoul that backs founders building in AI, crypto and frontier tech, with offices in Seoul, San Francisco, Singapore, Bangalore and Abu Dhabi (Sky Tower, Al Reem Island). Its mission is to accelerate the mass adoption of blockchain by investing its own resources; it has backed over 100 founders worldwide and supports portfolio companies beyond capital.
- Eligibility: Founders building in AI, crypto and frontier tech, from day zero to global scale
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Ticket and fund size not published
- Primary source: https://www.hashed.com/ · checked October 2026

### Hashgraph Ventures
- Type: Venture capital — pre-seed to Series A (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/hashgraph-ventures/
- Website: https://hashgraphvc.com/
- What you get: Abu Dhabi VC fund for blockchain-infrastructure and AI startups, pre-seed to Series A.
- Who can apply: Blockchain-infrastructure and AI-native startups.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Early-stage VC fund at the intersection of blockchain infrastructure and AI, investing from pre-seed through Series A. Its manager, Hashgraph Ventures Manager Ltd, sits on the 15th floor of Al Khatem Tower, ADGM Square, Abu Dhabi, and follows guidance from the ADGM Financial Services Regulatory Authority. Portfolio: Debyt, Bloxtel, Rava.
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://hashgraphvc.com/ · checked October 2026

### Homegrown Ventures
- Type: Venture capital — consumer packaged goods (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/homegrown-ventures/
- Website: https://www.homegrowncpg.com/
- Apply: https://www.homegrowncpg.com/contact
- What you get: Venture fund for consumer-goods brands; $22.8M Fund I closed in April 2026.
- Who can apply: Better-for-you consumer brands with $2–10M net revenue, MENA and India, GCC first.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — MENA and India, GCC at the core; $2–10M net revenue — source: “We also selectively review exceptional brands beyond these regions.” (https://www.homegrowncpg.com/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Dubai-based venture fund built for consumer goods — the first in MENA, by its own description. It backs early-stage, better-for-you brands in food and beverage, health and wellness, personal and home care and lifestyle across MENA and India, with the GCC at the core; Fund I reached its final close in April 2026 at over $22.8 million.
- Eligibility: Launched consumer brands with $2–10M net revenue; MENA and India, GCC at the core
- Amount: Fund I: over $22.8M (final close April 2026) · ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.homegrowncpg.com/ · checked October 2026

### Iliad Partners
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/iliad-partners/
- Website: https://www.iliad-partners.com/
- What you get: Equity from a $50M Fund I, pre-Series A and Series A.
- Who can apply: Post-revenue B2B tech startups with product-market fit, mainly in Saudi Arabia and the UAE.
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture capital fund manager headquartered in ADGM, Abu Dhabi (Al Khatem Tower, Hub71 — regulated by the ADGM FSRA) and a strategic partner of Hub71. Iliad Partners Tech Ventures Fund I ($50M) held its first close on 10 December 2024 with Jada Fund of Funds, the Olayan family and Gulf and European family offices, and a second close on 30 September 2025 with Eurobank, National Bank of Greece and Piraeus Bank. Invests at Pre-Series A and Series A, primarily in Saudi Arabia and the UAE, selectively in Greek startups expanding into MENA.
- Terms: Yes — equity
- Amount: Fund I $50M · Pre-Series A and Series A
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds
- Primary source: https://www.iliad-partners.com/ · checked October 2026

### Jabbar Internet Group
- Type: Private investor in internet and technology companies (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/jabbar-internet-group/
- Website: https://www.jabbar.com/
- What you get: Dubai investor in internet and technology companies in the region.
- Who can apply: Internet and tech founders; investment presentations by e-mail.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Dubai-based investor (Dubai Design District, Building 4) that describes itself as one of the leading investors in internet and technology companies in the region. Its portfolio includes Keyper, Foodics, Ziina, BitOasis, Floranow, Blueground, Repzo, Democrance, Qeen and Stake; founders with an interesting project are invited to send an investment presentation by e-mail.
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.jabbar.com/ · checked October 2026

### Jasoor Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/jasoor-ventures-otf/
- Website: https://jasoor.vc/
- Apply: https://jasoor.typeform.com/funding
- What you get: Early-stage VC.
- Who can apply: Early-stage tech startups in the Middle East, North Africa, Turkey.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: Early-stage technology startups in the Middle East, North Africa or Turkey — source: “Jasoor Ventures backs early stage technology startups across the Middle East, North Africa, and Turkey” (https://jasoor.vc)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture capital firm based at ADGM Square, Abu Dhabi, backing early-stage technology startups across the Middle East, North Africa and Turkey. Portfolio includes 44.01, Byanat, TABsense, KitchenomiKs and eMushrif. Founders apply for funding through its online form.
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://jasoor.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Klumi Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (blockchain and digital assets) (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/klumi-ventures/
- Website: https://www.klumiventures.com/
- What you get: Co-invests in early-stage blockchain startups, pre-seed to Series A.
- Who can apply: Early-stage blockchain startups, pre-seed to Series A.
- Cost: Equity or tokens
- Status: Active
- Summary: Regulated digital-asset fund manager and venture capital firm with its head office in Abu Dhabi (ADGM, Al Sarab Tower), regulated by the FSRA. It co-invests with top-tier VCs in early-stage blockchain startups at pre-seed, seed and Series A - equity in companies building on blockchain, plus tokens or rights to future tokens - and manages closed-ended venture capital funds with subscription limits of up to $100 million. In May 2025 it joined Hub71+ to support Web3 and AI innovation in Abu Dhabi.
- Eligibility: Early-stage blockchain startups, pre-seed to Series A
- Terms: Yes — equity, plus tokens or rights to future tokens
- Amount: Pre-seed to Series A · closed-ended VC funds with subscription limits up to $100 million · ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.klumiventures.com/ · checked October 2026

### Leo Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (early stage, cross-continental) (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/leo-capital/
- Website: https://leo.capital/
- Apply: https://leo.capital/pitch/
- What you get: Pre-seed and seed cheques, leading or co-leading rounds.
- Who can apply: Early-stage founders building for global markets; no warm introduction needed.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside the UAE — source: “No warm introduction required - a great company can come from anywhere.” (https://leo.capital/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Cross-continental early-stage venture fund headquartered in Singapore and Helsinki, investing across Asia, the USA and Europe; Dubai is its MENA hub, one of eight hubs. It leads or co-leads pre-seed and seed rounds and plugs founders into its Catalyst Engine for global go-to-market, fundraising and talent. Dubai Future District Fund lists it among its fund-of-funds investments. Founders can pitch through its site: it says it reads every pitch, replies within 2–3 days and needs no warm introduction.
- Eligibility: Pre-seed and seed founders building technology companies for global markets · pitches accepted without a warm introduction
- Terms: Yes — venture capital
- Amount: Pre-seed and seed cheques (lead or co-lead) · ticket size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Dubai Future District Fund
- Primary source: https://leo.capital/ · checked October 2026

### Lunara Partners
- Type: Venture Capital (multi-stage investment firm) (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/lunara-partners/
- Website: https://www.lunarapartners.com/
- What you get: Equity investment from pre-seed to pre-liquidity.
- Who can apply: Early- and late-stage founders across MENA.
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- Status: Active
- Summary: Multi-stage investment firm backing founders across MENA and beyond. Dual strategy: pre-seed and seed investing plus structured late-stage capital for companies approaching liquidity events. Portfolio on the site: Cobi (pre-seed) and HeyBreez (seed), both AI / enterprise software.
- Eligibility: Early- and late-stage founders across MENA
- Terms: Yes
- Amount: Multi-stage — pre-seed to pre-liquidity
- Primary source: https://www.lunarapartners.com/ · checked October 2026

### MEVP
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/mevp/
- Website: https://www.mevp.com/
- Apply: https://mevp.com/apply-for-funding
- What you get: Equity tickets of $3M to $5M from Middle East Venture Fund IV ($105M).
- Who can apply: Tech startups in MENATP in AI, fintech, SaaS, health, edtech and related sectors.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: MENATP (Fund IV); MENAT (Fund III); MENA (Funds I & II) — mevp.com/funds — source: “Our investments have been instrumental in creating more than 73,000 jobs, predominantly in developing countries across the MENATP region.” (https://www.mevp.com/impact)
- Status: Active
- Summary: MENA venture firm providing early- and growth-stage funding; its fourth fund, Middle East Venture Fund IV (2023), has a size of $105M with tickets of $3M to $5M (site).
- Amount: $3M to $5M per ticket — Middle East Venture Fund IV ($105M)
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Saudi Venture Capital (SVC), Dubai Future District Fund, Al Waha Fund of Funds
- Primary source: https://www.mevp.com/ · checked October 2026

### Mindshift Capital
- Type: Venture capital — gender lens, post-seed (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/mindshift-capital/
- Website: https://www.mindshiftcapital.com/
- What you get: Gender-lens VC for post-seed, women-led startups in the U.S., Europe and the Middle East.
- Who can apply: Post-seed, early-stage, female-led companies.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Global, women-run venture firm investing with a gender lens in post-seed, early-stage companies in the U.S., Europe and the Middle East, with investments in 20 women-led companies across 6 countries. Its founding general partner is based in Dubai and New York.
- Eligibility: Post-seed, early-stage, female-led companies (U.S., Europe, Middle East)
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.mindshiftcapital.com/ · checked October 2026

### Modus Capital
- Type: Venture capital — late Seed and Series A, plus venture builder (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/modus-capital/
- Website: https://modus.vc/
- Apply: https://modus.vc/contact/
- What you get: Early- to mid-stage MENA VC and venture builder; leads late Seed and Series A rounds.
- Who can apply: Startups in the GCC, Egypt or the Levant; US/EU firms portable to the Middle East.
- Cost: Equity — tickets of $500K to $2M
- From abroad: Within the region: GCC, Egypt, Levant; US/EU companies portable to the Middle East — source: “Our MENA Fund I primarily invests in GCC countries, Egypt, and the Levant, as well as US/EU-based companies that are portable to the Middle East.” (https://modus.vc/venture-capital/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture platform with an office in Al Khatem Tower, ADGM, Abu Dhabi, that combines venture building with an early- to mid-stage MENA VC fund. The fund prefers to lead late Seed and Series A rounds with tickets of $500k to $2m, is industry-agnostic (no hardware), and invests mainly in the GCC, Egypt and the Levant as well as US/EU companies that are portable to the Middle East.
- Eligibility: Startups in the GCC, Egypt and the Levant; US/EU companies portable to the Middle East
- Amount: $500K–$2M per company (ticket size)
- Primary source: https://modus.vc/ · checked October 2026

### MSA Novo (Novo Capital)
- Type: Venture Capital (multi-stage) (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/msa-novo-novo-capital/
- Website: https://novocap.co/
- What you get: Multi-stage equity investment.
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- Status: Active
- Summary: Multi-stage global venture firm — Novo Capital on the site itself, MSA Novo in its page titles — with offices in Abu Dhabi (ADGM Square, Al Khatem Tower), Riyadh (Aban Center) and Singapore; no headquarters named. Invests across Southeast Asia, India, Latin America, MENA and Sub-Saharan Africa; MENA portfolio names on the site include Tabby, Zid, Sary, Qashio, Thndr, Tamatem and Kitopi.
- Terms: Yes — equity
- Amount: Multi-stage · fund size and cheque not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds
- Primary source: https://novocap.co/ · checked October 2026

### Mubadala Capital
- Type: Sovereign Asset Manager / VC (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/mubadala-capital/
- Website: https://www.mubadalacapital.ae/
- What you get: Equity investment from a $755bn+ asset manager.
- Who can apply: Not applicable — a sovereign asset manager, not an open programme.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Sovereign wealth-affiliated alternative asset manager in Abu Dhabi, established 2011. $755bn+ in assets managed, advised and administered (as of 30 June 2026), with its own Ventures platform investing in technology and healthcare.
- Amount: $755bn+ assets managed, advised and administered (as of 30 June 2026)
- Primary source: https://www.mubadalacapital.ae/ · checked October 2026

### Natural Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (impact fund) (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/natural-ventures/
- Website: https://natural.ventures/
- Apply: https://natural.ventures/contact-us/
- What you get: Venture capital from a $100m impact fund for water and food tech.
- Who can apply: Tech companies with proven technology and commercial traction in water and food security.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Impact venture capital fund investing in technology companies that solve for global water and food security - scalable, proven technologies with commercial traction. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi (ADGM, Al Sarab Tower) with a second office in The Hague, and regulated by the ADGM Financial Services Regulatory Authority. It announced the first close of its inaugural $100m fund in July 2024; anchor investors include Helm AG. Portfolio companies get access to its network of industry experts and partners in the Middle East and Asia; investments announced on its site include Kilter, Active Membranes, N-Drip and constellr.
- Eligibility: Technology companies with scalable, proven technology and commercial traction in water and food security
- Terms: Yes — venture capital
- Amount: $100m inaugural fund (first close July 2024) · ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://natural.ventures/ · checked October 2026

### Nuwa Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/nuwa-capital/
- Website: https://nuwacapital.io/
- What you get: VC equity investment; stage range.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: DIFC-based, DFSA-authorised VC (est. 2020) with Riyadh and Cairo offices.
- Amount: Stage range, AUM and cheque size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC), Dubai Future District Fund
- Primary source: https://nuwacapital.io/ · checked October 2026

### Oraseya Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/oraseya-capital/
- Website: https://oraseyacapital.com/
- Apply: https://oraseyacapital.com/contact#pitchtous
- What you get: Equity investment from an AED 500M fund, pre-Seed to Series B.
- Who can apply: Startups from pre-Seed to Series B with an existing tie to Dubai and the UAE.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Startups must have an existing tie to Dubai and the UAE ('UAE-centric') — source: “UAE-centric: we support startups with an existing tie to Dubai and the UAE” (https://oraseyacapital.com/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: The AED 500M venture capital arm of the Dubai Integrated Economic Zones Authority (DIEZ). Launched Nov 2023, it backs UAE-centric tech startups from pre-Seed to Series B. Named "Venture Capital Firm of the Year" at the Entrepreneur Middle East Awards 2025.
- Amount: AED 500M fund · pre-Seed to Series B
- Primary source: https://oraseyacapital.com/ · checked October 2026

### Partech
- Type: Venture Capital (global, seed to growth) (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/partech/
- Website: https://partechpartners.com/
- What you get: Seed checks of €300k–€3m; further funds for venture, Africa, growth and impact.
- Who can apply: Technology startups from seed to growth, in Europe, Africa and around the globe.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Global technology investment firm headquartered in Paris, with offices in Berlin, Dakar, Dubai, Milan, Nairobi and San Francisco; it manages close to €3 billion for a portfolio of 220 companies in 40 countries and runs seed, venture, Africa, growth and impact funds. In September 2026 it led the US$13M Series A of Synapse Analytics, an AI decisioning company headquartered in Abu Dhabi. Dubai Future District Fund lists it among its fund-of-funds investments.
- Eligibility: Technology startups from seed to growth — the Seed fund invests from day one in Europe and around the globe, the Africa fund from seed to Series C
- Terms: Yes — venture capital, as lead or co-investor
- Amount: Seed fund: initial checks €300k–€3m (lead or syndicate investor) · Africa fund: seed to Series C
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Dubai Future District Fund
- Primary source: https://partechpartners.com/news/synapse-analytics-secures-us13m-in-series-a-funding-led-by-partech-to-drive-ai-powered-decisioning-for-financial-institutions · checked October 2026

### Phoenician VC
- Type: Venture capital investor and venture advisor (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/phoenician-vc/
- Website: https://www.phoenician.vc/
- What you get: Abu Dhabi (ADGM) VC and advisor: 20+ investments via Phoenician Fund I.
- Who can apply: Tech ventures; portfolio incl. NymCard, Sarwa, Toters, MoneyFellows.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture investor and venture/transaction advisor with an office on the 15th floor of Al Khatem Tower, ADGM Square, Abu Dhabi (second office in Beirut). It reports more than 20 investments executed through Phoenician Fund I and its parent More Capital, among them NymCard, Sarwa, Toters, MoneyFellows, eddress and Kamkalima; exits include Onfido and Seez.
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.phoenician.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Phoenix Venture Partners
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/phoenix-venture-partners/
- Website: https://pvp-me.com/
- Apply: mailto:getfunded@pvp-me.com
- What you get: Equity of USD 100,000 to 7.5 million from its $50M Innovation Fund (PVPIF).
- Who can apply: Seed to Series B tech companies in the GCC, MENA and G20 economies.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: ADGM-incorporated, FSRA-regulated venture capital fund manager (est. 2023). Its inaugural Innovation Fund (PVPIF, vintage 2024, $50M) held a third close effective 13 March 2026, bringing investors from the US, France, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait and the UAE.
- Amount: USD 100,000 to 7.5 million per company — PVPIF ($50M)
- Primary source: https://pvp-me.com/ · checked October 2026

### Pin (Pininvest)
- Type: Early-stage investor — deal-by-deal SPVs plus fund investments (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/pin-pininvest/
- Website: https://pininvest.co/
- What you get: Dubai investor backing early-stage MENA companies through SPVs and selected VC funds.
- Who can apply: Early-stage, high-growth founders in MENA and Sub-Saharan Africa.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Network-driven investment firm in Business Bay, Dubai (Anantara Downtown Office Tower), whose partners have invested together since 2017. It backs early-stage, high-growth companies across MENA and Sub-Saharan Africa — up to 30% globally — on a deal-by-deal basis through single-purpose vehicles alongside co-investors and VC partners, and allocates to selected venture funds; 20+ portfolio companies across fintech, logistics, enterprise software and emerging tech.
- Eligibility: Early-stage, high-growth companies in MENA and Sub-Saharan Africa (up to 30% global)
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://pininvest.co/ · checked October 2026

### Plus VC
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/plus-vc/
- Website: https://www.plus.vc/
- Apply: https://plus.vc/apply-now/
- What you get: Equity from seed to Series A — about $100K at seed, follow-ons up to $500K.
- Who can apply: Teams from or based in MENA with a launched product and user or customer traction.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: Region: MENA - teams from or based in the MENA region — source: “We seek teams from or based in the MENA region driven by execution” (https://plus.vc/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Abu Dhabi-based early-stage VC — 200+ transactions, 250+ startups backed across MENA.
- Amount: Seed to Series A — about $100K at seed, follow-ons up to $500K
- Primary source: https://www.plus.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Primal Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (applied technology and digital assets) (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/primal-capital/
- Website: https://primalcapital.io/
- Apply: https://primalcapital.io/contact
- What you get: Seed-to-growth investment in applied technology and digital assets.
- Who can apply: Founders in applied technology and digital assets.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Alternative asset manager investing in applied technology and digital assets from seed to growth, with locations in Sydney, Abu Dhabi and San Francisco. It invests through funds - the flagship Primal Capital, the thematic Atoms & Bits Capital, and SPV and co-invest vehicles - and places regulated wholesale transactions for opportunities outside fund mandates, across critical resources, power and compute infrastructure, AI, blockchain and data, and applications in finance, robotics, biotech, consumer and materials. The portfolio shown on its site includes Standard Bots, Mach Industries, Auki Labs, Immersve and Fasset.
- Eligibility: Founders in applied technology and digital assets, seed through growth
- Terms: Yes — venture capital
- Amount: Seed to growth · fund and ticket sizes not published
- Primary source: https://primalcapital.io/ · checked October 2026

### Raiven Capital
- Type: Venture capital — early stage (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/raiven-capital/
- Website: https://www.raivencapital.com/
- What you get: Early-stage VC; $125M fund run from DIFC for AI, IoT and emerging-tech startups.
- Who can apply: Founders of scalable AI and IoT platforms; Dubai hub for Africa, South Asia, Eastern Europe.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Early-stage venture firm investing in highly scalable digital platforms that use AI, IoT and other new technologies. Its second fund, a $125M global technology fund (2025), is run from the Innovation Hub at DIFC in Dubai and connects African, South Asian and Eastern European entrepreneurs; Raiven Capital (DIFC) Limited is regulated by the DFSA.
- Eligibility: Founders building scalable AI, IoT and emerging-tech platforms
- Amount: Fund B: $125M global technology fund (2025) · ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.raivencapital.com/ · checked October 2026

### Salica Oryx Fund
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/salica-oryx-fund/
- Website: https://salicainvestments.com/fund/oryx-fund/
- Apply: https://salicainvestments.typeform.com/submit-pitch
- What you get: Equity for seed-stage MENA tech startups.
- Who can apply: Early-stage MENA tech startups in finance, health, enterprise, logistics or education.
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: MENA-only early-stage fund of Salica Investments (formerly Hambro Perks), making primary investments in seed-stage technology companies across the Middle East and North Africa. Salica is based in London and Abu Dhabi (ADGM Square); Jada and SVC list the Oryx Fund among the funds they back, and Grubtech’s CEO credits its team with help entering the Saudi market.
- Eligibility: Early-stage technology startups in the Middle East and North Africa — finance, healthcare, enterprise, logistics and education
- Terms: Yes — equity stake
- Amount: Seed and early-stage rounds · fund and ticket size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://salicainvestments.com/fund/oryx-fund/ · checked October 2026

### Shorooq Partners
- Type: Alternative Investment Firm (Equity/Venture Capital, Credit, and AI investing) (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/shorooq-partners/
- Website: https://www.shorooq.com/
- Apply: https://shorooqpartners.typeform.com/getfunded
- What you get: Equity investment, stage-agnostic.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: Region: MENA (Middle East and North Africa) — source: “Shorooq was created to unlock the potential of new ideas and businesses in the MENA region.” (https://www.shorooq.com/about)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Multi-strategy alternative investment firm from the MENA region (venture capital, private equity, credit, AI and real assets) — over $1 billion AUM, 100+ portfolio companies from 11 countries of origin (site). Joined QIA’s Fund of Funds programme in February 2026 (qia.qa).
- Amount: Stage-agnostic
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): QIA Fund of Funds, Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC), Dubai Future District Fund, Al Waha Fund of Funds
- Primary source: https://www.shorooq.com/ · checked October 2026

### SoftBank Vision Fund
- Type: Venture capital — growth stage (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/softbank-vision-fund/
- Website: https://visionfund.com/
- What you get: SoftBank's growth-stage technology fund, with offices in Abu Dhabi and Riyadh.
- Who can apply: Founders of growth-stage technology companies, AI focus.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: SoftBank's technology investment fund, with offices in Al Sila Tower, ADGM Square, Abu Dhabi and in Al-Raidah Digital City, Riyadh (two of its 16 global offices). It backs founders of growth-stage technology companies — more than 450 of them — with a focus on the AI economy from hardware to infrastructure to applications; its SVF2 portfolio includes Dubai-based Kitopi.
- Eligibility: Founders of growth-stage technology companies
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://visionfund.com/ · checked October 2026

### TAU Capital
- Type: Venture capital — growth-stage DeepTech (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/tau-capital/
- Website: https://taucapital.vc/
- What you get: Growth-stage DeepTech VC investing approximately $15M per company.
- Who can apply: Validated DeepTech: climate, automation, techbio, computing, space.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: DeepTech venture firm investing at the growth stage — approximately $15M per company in validated technologies — across climate resilience, automation, techbio, next-gen computing and the space economy. Headquartered in Abu Dhabi (Al Sila Tower, ADGM), it deploys capital in North America, Europe and the Middle East.
- Eligibility: Growth-stage companies with validated technologies
- Amount: Approximately $15M per company
- Primary source: https://taucapital.vc/ · checked October 2026

### TVM Capital Healthcare
- Type: Venture Capital / Growth Equity (healthcare) (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/tvm-capital-healthcare/
- Website: https://tvmcapitalhealthcare.com/
- Apply: https://tvmcapitalhealthcare.com/contact/
- What you get: Healthcare growth equity.
- Who can apply: Tech-enabled healthcare companies in MENA and Southeast Asia.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Healthcare growth-capital investor with investment offices in Dubai and Singapore, investing equity in tech-enabled and transformational healthcare companies across MENA and Southeast Asia. First close of a USD 150M Southeast Asia fund announced September 2025.
- Amount: Growth capital - USD 150M Southeast Asia fund, first close September 2025; ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://tvmcapitalhealthcare.com/ · checked October 2026

### VentureSouq (VSQ)
- Type: Venture Capital (thematic funds) (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/venturesouq-vsq/
- Website: https://www.venturesouq.com/
- Apply: https://www.venturesouq.com/contact
- What you get: FinTech and ClimateTech thematic funds active.
- Who can apply: Founders contacting via the site's form; no stage or cheque criteria published.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside the UAE — source: “VentureSouq (VSQ) is a MENA-based venture capital fund manager with a global portfolio.” (https://www.venturesouq.com/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: MENA-based venture capital fund manager with a global portfolio — VentureSouq Management Limited is regulated by the ADGM Financial Services Regulatory Authority (Abu Dhabi). Runs thematic funds: FinTech and ClimateTech (active) and a Global Seed fund (deployed); 300+ portfolio companies in 30+ countries, among them Tabby, Salla, Huspy, Nymcard, Mozn, Hakbah and Rain (Bahrain). Also runs the Angel Rising investor symposium with startAD at NYU Abu Dhabi.
- Eligibility: Contact form on venturesouq.com/contact (name, email, type, message) — no stage or cheque criteria published
- Terms: Yes — equity
- Amount: Thematic funds — FinTech and ClimateTech active · ticket size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://www.venturesouq.com/ · checked October 2026

### Venturewave Capital
- Type: Venture capital — impact, Series A and B (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/venturewave-capital/
- Website: https://venturewave.capital/
- Apply: https://www.venturebeam.com/founders/
- What you get: Impact VC for Series A and B tech companies, with an Abu Dhabi office in ADGM.
- Who can apply: Series A/B startups in health, education, food, climate and sustainable finance.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026) — source: “Apply to Raise Funds” (https://venturewave.capital/get-in-touch/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Global impact venture firm investing in Series A and B technology companies in health, education, food and agriculture, climate and sustainable finance. Its Abu Dhabi office is in Al Khatem Tower, ADGM, where Venturewave Capital Limited holds an active FSRA licence; it invested in UAE AI start-up AIREV in April 2025.
- Eligibility: Series A and B technology companies
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://venturewave.capital/ · checked October 2026

### Wamda Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/wamda-capital/
- Website: https://wamdacapital.com/
- What you get: Equity in Seed to Series A technology startups.
- Who can apply: Technology startups based in the MENAPT region.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Evergreen MENAPT VC backed by Fadi Ghandour's personal capital, investing sector-agnostic in Seed to Series A technology startups — recent activity includes leading Breez AI's $1.3M pre-seed (Jan 2026) and portfolio company Clarity's $12M raise (Sept 2025).
- Amount: Seed to Series A
- Primary source: https://wamdacapital.com/ · checked October 2026

### White Star Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (global, multi-stage) (VC fund) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/white-star-capital/
- Website: https://whitestarcapital.com/
- What you get: Series A to B investment from a $250M Fund IV.
- Who can apply: Startups building ambitious, international technology businesses.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Global multi-stage technology investment firm that backs entrepreneurs building ambitious, international businesses. It operates out of London, New York, Montreal, Paris, Toronto, Guernsey, Berlin, Milan and Abu Dhabi, where its General Partner and Chief Catalyst Officer is based; its fund page names North America, Europe and Asia as its markets. In August 2026 its site reported the close of a $250M Fund IV to back startups from Series A to B - more than $350m of fresh capital together with its North American Seed Fund and new special purpose vehicles. QSTP lists it among the co-investment partners of its Tech Venture Fund in Qatar.
- Eligibility: Startups from Series A to B (Fund IV) building ambitious, international technology businesses
- Terms: Yes — venture capital
- Amount: $250M Fund IV (Series A to B) · ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://whitestarcapital.com/ · checked October 2026

### Al Quoz Creative Entrepreneurship Competition (Dubai Culture)
- Type: Government startup competition (cash prizes) (Grant) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/al-quoz-creative-entrepreneurship-competition-dubai-culture/
- Website: https://dubaiculture.gov.ae/en/events/Al-Quoz-Creative-Entrepreneurship-Competition---May-2025
- What you get: Cash prizes of AED 80,000 / 50,000 / 30,000 for the top three (2025 edition).
- Who can apply: UAE-based cultural and creative startups less than two years old.
- Cost: No equity — cash prize
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Startup competition of Dubai Culture, held on the sidelines of the Al Quoz Creative Entrepreneurship Forum at the Al Quoz Creative Zone, Dubai, for UAE-based founders in the cultural and creative industries — from advertising, architecture and design to film, music, e-gaming, heritage, visual and culinary arts. The third edition (2025) paid cash prizes of AED 80,000, 50,000 and 30,000 to the top three, with additional rewards from event collaborators; startups had to be less than two years old, with a functional prototype where applicable, and shortlisted founders pitched at the forum in Q4 2025. Applications for that edition closed on 30 June 2025; Dubai Culture's site shows no 2026 call.
- Eligibility: UAE-based entrepreneurs only · early-stage startups less than two years old, with a functional prototype where applicable · active in the cultural and creative industries
- Terms: No equity — cash prizes
- Amount: Cash prizes AED 80,000 / 50,000 / 30,000 for the top three (2025 edition)
- Primary source: https://dubaiculture.gov.ae/en/events/Al-Quoz-Creative-Entrepreneurship-Competition---May-2025 · checked October 2026

### Expo City Dubai Foundation — Changemakers Academy
- Type: Grant + incubation programme (Grant) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/expo-city-dubai-foundation-changemakers-academy/
- Website: https://ecdf.ae/
- Apply: https://forms.office.com/Pages/ResponsePage.aspx?id=CA8x2HQVG0eId0PFAyJbGmshSJgbDPRDmpZAG_AltyVUNlk3WTZFSlhaTzBaSzROTURQREdLOUpGRC4u
- What you get: Grants up to AED 50,000 plus incubation for idea-stage impact founders.
- Who can apply: UAE-based aspiring entrepreneurs with a social, environmental or humanitarian mission.
- Cost: Grant
- From abroad: A company in the UAE is required — UAE-based aspiring entrepreneurs; Idea stage, social, environmental or humanitarian mission — source: “UAE based aspiring entrepreneurs” (https://ecdf.ae/changemakers-academy/)
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Foundation at Expo City Dubai whose Changemakers Academy — an innovation and entrepreneurship incubator building on Expo 2020 Dubai's University Innovation Programme — gives UAE-based, idea-stage founders with a social, environmental or humanitarian mission training, mentorship, licensing and grants of up to AED 50,000. Its Global Innovators Programme combines grants, innovation challenges and knowledge-sharing.
- Eligibility: UAE-based aspiring entrepreneurs at idea stage with a social, environmental or humanitarian mission
- Amount: Grants of up to AED 50,000 per selected project
- Primary source: https://ecdf.ae/ · checked October 2026

### FoodTech Challenge (UAE)
- Type: Startup competition (cash prize) (Grant) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/foodtech-challenge-uae/
- Website: https://www.foodtechchallenge.com/
- What you get: Global food-tech competition; the third edition offered $2m in cash, winners selected.
- Who can apply: Early-stage food-tech start-ups for arid, hot climates; UAE market focus.
- Cost: No equity — cash prize
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Global competition for early-stage, tech-driven solutions that transform food systems in arid, hot environments, launched in 2019 under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum and organised in Abu Dhabi; it helps start-ups set up and scale in the UAE. The third edition, delivered by the International Affairs Office at the Presidential Court and Tamkeen, offered its largest prize yet — $2m in cash — and received more than 1,200 submissions from over 113 countries; its winners have been selected. The website names no date for a next edition.
- Eligibility: Early-stage, tech-driven solutions that transform food systems in arid, hot and increasingly challenging environments · global applicants, with emphasis on the UAE market
- Amount: Prize of $2m in cash (third edition)
- Primary source: https://www.foodtechchallenge.com/ · checked October 2026

### MBZUAI Incubation and Entrepreneurship Center (IEC)
- Type: University incubator — grant for early-stage development (Grant) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/mbzuai-incubation-and-entrepreneurship-center-iec/
- Website: https://mbzuai.ac.ae/innovation-partnerships/incubation-entrepreneurship-center
- What you get: AI startup incubator at MBZUAI with a grant for early-stage development.
- Who can apply: MBZUAI-affiliated founders: faculty, researchers, engineers and students.
- Cost: Grant
- Status: Active
- Summary: MBZUAI's incubator in Abu Dhabi helps the university community — faculty, researchers, engineers and students — start and scale AI startups. Founders get structured programmes, a grant to fund early-stage development, a mentor network of faculty and industry practitioners, and a year-round calendar of events and workshops.
- Eligibility: MBZUAI-affiliated founders only (faculty, researchers, engineers, students); grant committee review
- Amount: Grant amount not published
- Primary source: https://mbzuai.ac.ae/innovation-partnerships/incubation-entrepreneurship-center · checked October 2026

### TiE Women MENA
- Type: Competition — equity-free cash prize (Grant) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/tie-women-mena/
- Website: https://dubai.tie.org/tie-women/
- Apply: https://tiewomen.pitchday.pro/events-portfolio/1710
- What you get: Pitch competition with US$50,000 in equity-free cash prizes.
- Who can apply: Women-founded startups; co-founder holds at least 33%.
- Cost: No equity — cash prize
- From abroad: Within the region: Female-founded or co-founded startups, women co-founder(s) with at least 33%; Licensed companies registered on or after 1 Jan 2019 — source: “UAE | EMIRATI | SAUDI ARABIA | EGYPT | REST OF MIDDLE EAST” (https://dubai.tie.org/tie-women/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Pitch programme of TiE Dubai for women-founded startups, run as an annual edition covering the UAE, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the rest of the Middle East. Winners receive equity-free cash prizes and the pitch must be delivered by the female founder or co-founder.
- Eligibility: Women co-founder(s) holding a minimum 33% stake · company licensed and registered on or after 1 January 2019 · the pitch is delivered by the female founder or co-founder
- Terms: No equity — equity-free cash prize
- Amount: US$50,000 in equity-free cash prizes
- Primary source: https://dubai.tie.org/tie-women/ · checked October 2026

### Zayed Sustainability Prize
- Type: Prize — non-dilutive cash award (Grant) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/zayed-sustainability-prize/
- Website: https://zayedsustainabilityprize.com/
- Apply: https://zayedsustainabilityprize.com/en/how-to-apply
- What you get: Non-dilutive prize: US$1M per category winner, US$100K per finalist.
- Who can apply: Nonprofits and SMEs in health, food, energy, water, climate.
- Cost: No equity — prize money
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Closed
- Summary: The UAE's global sustainability award, run across six categories. Its own How to apply page states that nonprofit organisations (NPOs) and small and medium enterprises (SMEs) are encouraged to apply, and sets one cycle a year: submissions open in January and close in June, finalists are announced in September and the awards are presented the following January.
- Eligibility: Nonprofit organisations (NPOs) and small and medium enterprises (SMEs)
- Terms: No equity — prize money
- Amount: US$1 million per organisational category winner · US$100,000 per organisational finalist
- Primary source: https://zayedsustainabilityprize.com/ · checked October 2026

### ADGM
- Type: International Financial Centre + Regulator (Government) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/adgm/
- Website: https://www.adgm.com/
- What you get: A RegLab regulatory sandbox; not a funding programme.
- Who can apply: Fintech firms, from startups to existing regulated companies (RegLab).
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- Status: Active
- Summary: Abu Dhabi Global Market. Common law jurisdiction. RegLab sandbox for FinTech.
- Amount: International financial centre and regulator, not a funding programme · RegLab sandbox
- Primary source: https://www.adgm.com/ · checked October 2026

### ADIO
- Type: Investment Promotion (Government) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/adio/
- Website: https://www.investwithabudhabi.com/
- What you get: Project-dependent incentive packages.
- Who can apply: International companies establishing in Abu Dhabi.
- Cost: Equity possible
- Status: Active
- Summary: Abu Dhabi Investment Office. Financial incentives and sector partnerships for companies establishing in Abu Dhabi.
- Eligibility: International companies establishing in Abu Dhabi
- Terms: Equity investment allocation listed among Investment Promotion offerings; terms not published
- Amount: Incentive packages — project dependent
- Primary source: https://www.investwithabudhabi.com/ · checked October 2026

### Artificial Intelligence and Data Authority (UAE)
- Type: Government Authority (Government) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/uae-ai-and-data-authority/
- Website: https://ai.gov.ae/
- What you get: National data, AI and digital-government body; not a funder.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Single national body for data, artificial intelligence and digital government in the UAE, reporting to the Cabinet; approved June 2026, bringing together the AI Office, the TDRA Digital Government Sector and the UAE Data Office.
- Amount: National AI and data authority — not a funding programme
- Primary source: https://uaecabinet.ae/en/news/mohammed-bin-rashid-approves-establishing-artificial-intelligence-and-data-authority · checked October 2026

### CBUAE FinTech Sandbox
- Type: Regulatory Sandbox (Government) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/cbuae-fintech-sandbox/
- Website: https://www.centralbank.ae/en/our-operations/fintech-digital-transformation/
- What you get: Regulatory permission to test fintech products.
- Who can apply: UAE-based startups or established companies in any sector, and financial free zone firms.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- Status: Active
- Summary: Central Bank of the UAE regulatory sandbox (Sandbox Conditions Regulation) — co-sandboxing with ADGM and DIFC. Licenses payments, stored value and payment tokens.
- Eligibility: UAE-based start-ups or established UAE-based companies in any sector, and financial free zone companies
- Amount: Regulatory permission to test
- Primary source: https://www.centralbank.ae/en/our-operations/fintech-digital-transformation/ · checked October 2026

### DIFC
- Type: Free Zone (Government) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/difc/
- Website: https://www.difc.com/business/establish-a-business
- What you get: 100% ownership in a dedicated free zone; not a funding programme.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- Status: Active
- Summary: Dubai International Financial Centre. 10,000+ active companies (H1 2026), common law courts, DFSA regulation. Home to the DIFC Innovation Hub. 0% corporate tax only as a Qualifying Free Zone Person on qualifying income. UAE corporate tax applies to financial years starting on or after 1 June 2023 (Federal Decree-Law No. 47 of 2022).
- Amount: Free zone and regulator, not a funding programme · 100% ownership
- Primary source: https://www.difc.com/ · checked October 2026

### Dubai Future Foundation
- Type: Government innovation foundation (Dubai) (Government) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/dubai-future-foundation/
- Website: https://www.dubaifuture.ae/
- Apply: https://www.dubaifuture.ae/initiatives/future-design-and-acceleration/dubai-future-accelerators/challenges/
- What you get: Programme support and co-creation opportunities.
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside the UAE — source: “The Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence, an initiative of the Dubai Future Foundation, is inviting global and local AI companies to participate in the second cycle of the 'Future of AI in Government Services' Accelerator Program.” (https://www.dubaifuture.ae/initiatives/future-design-and-acceleration/dubai-future-accelerators/challenges/)
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Dubai foundation set up in 2016 to design Dubai's future with public and private sector partners. Runs Dubai Future Labs (applied robotics and AI R&D), the TKS Dubai Innovation Program and programmes connecting corporate and government entities with startups to co-create solutions.
- Amount: Programme support + co-creation
- Primary source: https://www.dubaifuture.ae/ · checked October 2026

### Masdar City Free Zone
- Type: Free Zone (sustainability & innovation) (Government) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/masdar-city-free-zone/
- Website: https://masdarcity.ae/
- Apply: https://masdarcity.my.site.com/s/FZSelfRegister
- What you get: 100% foreign ownership free-zone setup.
- Who can apply: Clean tech, AI and innovative companies of any size.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Abu Dhabi’s sustainability and innovation free zone — home to more than 2,000 companies (site), positioned around clean energy, AI and R&D; 100% foreign ownership; home to the Catalyst CleanTech accelerator and R&D partnership access.
- Eligibility: Clean tech, AI and innovative companies of all sizes
- Terms: No
- Amount: Free zone incentives · 100% foreign ownership · package prices not published
- Primary source: https://masdarcity.ae/ · checked October 2026

### twofour54
- Type: Free Zone (media & entertainment) (Government) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/twofour54/
- Website: https://www.twofour54.com/
- Apply: https://www.twofour54.com/en/business-setup/
- What you get: Licence-fee waivers and production-rebate access.
- Who can apply: Media, gaming, production and creative-economy startups and freelancers.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Abu Dhabi's media and creative free zone at Yas Creative Hub, operating for over 15 years under the Creative Media Authority. Offers licence-fee waivers and a gateway to the Abu Dhabi Film Commission's production rebate.
- Eligibility: Media, gaming, production and creative-economy startups and freelancers
- Terms: No
- Amount: Licence-fee waivers · Abu Dhabi Film Commission production rebate access
- Primary source: https://www.twofour54.com/ · checked October 2026

### UAE Golden Visa — Entrepreneur
- Type: Residency Programme (Government) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/uae-golden-visa-entrepreneur/
- Website: https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/residence-visas/golden-visa
- Apply: https://smartservices.icp.gov.ae
- What you get: 5-year renewable residency for entrepreneurs with a qualifying project.
- Who can apply: Entrepreneurs with proof of a project's value and an incubator or authority letter.
- Cost: No equity — residency permission
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: 5-year renewable UAE residency for entrepreneurs with an innovative or technical project (10-year route via the AED 2M investor track). No sponsor needed.
- Eligibility: Entrepreneurs: proof of an innovative or technical project, documents proving project value, and a letter from a business incubator or relevant authority in the emirate (u.ae, updated 28 Jul 2026)
- Amount: 5-year residency — no equity
- Primary source: https://u.ae/en/information-and-services/visa-and-emirates-id/residence-visas/golden-visa · checked October 2026

### AngelSpark
- Type: Angel Network (Angel network) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/angelspark/
- Website: https://angelspark.net/
- Apply: https://angelspark.net/apply-for-funding
- What you get: From $100,000, with larger syndicates also led by the network.
- Who can apply: Full-time, incorporated founders with a working demo; ideas not funded unless referred.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside the UAE — source: “AngelSpark is a community of builders, investors, executives, and other good humans supporting founders around the world.” (https://angelspark.net/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Angel network drawing members from the UAE's executive, founder and investor communities. Hears 3–4 pitches a month out of hundreds of applications on a rolling basis and tells founders within 24 hours of the pitch whether it will invest. Its site says it invests from $100K “without restrictions on stage or geography”.
- Eligibility: Full-time commitment · company incorporated · working demo · does not fund ideas unless referred by a member · no “vice” businesses
- Terms: Yes — equity
- Amount: From $100,000 — also leads larger syndicates
- Primary source: https://angelspark.net/ · checked October 2026

### ConsultantsInvest
- Type: Angel Network — invitation only (Angel network) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/consultantsinvest/
- Website: https://consultantsinvest.com/
- What you get: Angel equity investment.
- Who can apply: Network limited to current and former consultants.
- Cost: Equity — angel stake
- Status: Active
- Summary: Dubai-based, invitation-only angel network of current and former tier-1 consultants (McKinsey, BCG, Bain and other leading consulting firms). Membership is capped at 1,000 members.
- Eligibility: Network membership limited to current and former consultants
- Terms: Yes — angel equity
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://consultantsinvest.com/ · checked October 2026

### Dubai Angel Investors (DAI)
- Type: Angel Network (Angel network) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/dubai-angel-investors-dai/
- Website: https://www.dubaiangelinvestors.me/
- Apply: https://www.dubaiangelinvestors.me/apply
- What you get: $100,000–$250,000 per company; up to $2,000,000 per round with member co-investment.
- Who can apply: Client- or consumer-facing tech firms with an MVP, active users and a full-time team of 2+, in MENA.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: MENA — source: “Is your business active in the MENA region?” (https://www.dubaiangelinvestors.me/apply)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Member-led angel group in Dubai that describes itself as a member-led micro-VC. Pitch nights are usually held on the second Tuesday of every month. Founders download the application form and send it with their deck.
- Eligibility: Client- or consumer-facing technology business · MVP or prototype with proof of concept · initial traction with active users · more than one full-time team member · active in the MENA region
- Terms: Yes — equity
- Amount: $100,000–$250,000 per company · with member co-investment $100,000–$2,000,000 per first round
- Primary source: https://www.dubaiangelinvestors.me/ · checked October 2026

### Emirates Angel Investors Association
- Type: Angel Network (Angel network) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/emirates-angel-investors-association/
- Website: https://www.emiratesangels.org/about
- What you get: Angel association; its members invest, the association does not.
- Cost: Equity — members invest
- Status: Active
- Summary: Non-profit association registered under the UAE Ministry of Community Development and supported by the Ministry of Economy. Connects startups to angel investor groups; the association does not invest itself — its members invest through a fund, a side vehicle or individually.
- Eligibility: Not published
- Terms: Yes — members invest (angel equity)
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://www.emiratesangels.org/about · checked October 2026

### Falcon Valley
- Type: Angel Network (Angel network) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/falcon-valley/
- Website: https://www.falconvall.ae/
- What you get: Angel equity investment.
- Who can apply: Early-stage startups and growth SMEs.
- Cost: Equity — angel stake
- Status: Active
- Summary: Abu Dhabi angel group named by Hub71 in December 2024 as part of its Angel Investor Support Package, described there as a group of seasoned angel investors focused on early-stage disruptive ventures. Its own site presents a platform for early-stage startups and growth SMEs and offers only a general register-your-interest field. Not the same organisation as Falcon Network (Dubai).
- Eligibility: Early-stage startups and growth SMEs
- Terms: Yes — angel equity
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://www.falconvall.ae/ · checked October 2026

### Keiretsu Forum MENA
- Type: Angel Network — chapter of a global network (Angel network) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/keiretsu-forum-mena/
- Website: https://keiretsumena.com/
- Apply: https://keiretsumena.com/application
- What you get: Angel investment.
- Who can apply: Tech, life sciences, healthcare and CleanTech founders with clear traction.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside the UAE — source: “Our objective is to connect local and international angel investors to local start-ups – as well as international start-ups, and to benefit from the business-friendly infrastructure provided by the governments in MENA.” (https://keiretsumena.com/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: MENA chapter of the global Keiretsu Forum angel network, with its regional headquarters in Dubai and chapter offices in Riyadh, Cairo and Amman. IMPORTANT: its own funding application page states that an administration fee is payable by the startup after the initial screening — check the terms before applying. The "4,000+ members" on its site is the figure for the worldwide network, not for MENA.
- Eligibility: Scalable business model, proprietary technology or competitive moat, execution-driven team and clear market traction
- Terms: Yes — angel equity
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://keiretsumena.com/ · checked October 2026

### SandStorm VC
- Type: Angel syndicate (Angel network) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sandstorm-vc/
- Website: https://sandstorm.vc/
- Apply: https://sandstorm.vc/
- What you get: Dubai-founded angel syndicate investing $50K–$500K from first ticket to Series A.
- Who can apply: B2B founders anywhere — SaaS, fintech, healthtech, Industry 4.0.
- Cost: Equity or convertible loan, $50K–$500K
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside the UAE — source: “no limits, soon incl lunars and martians” (https://sandstorm.vc/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Private angel-investing syndicate founded in Dubai, with more than 20 members based in the UAE, UK, USA, Australia, KSA and Oman. It invests from the first ticket to Series A — $50K–$500K per deal, sweet spot $100–200K — in equity or convertible loan agreements, no debt; generally agnostic and B2B-focused (B2B SaaS, fintech, healthtech, Industry 4.0), with no geographic limits.
- Eligibility: Founders from first ticket to Series A; no geographic limits
- Terms: Equity or convertible loan agreements (CLAs), no debt
- Amount: $50K–$500K per deal (sweet spot $100K–$200K)
- Primary source: https://sandstorm.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Sharjah Business Angels Network (SBAN)
- Type: Angel-investor network (SRTIP) (Angel network) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sharjah-business-angels-network-sban/
- Website: https://srtip.ae/sharjah-business-angels-network/
- Apply: https://srtip.ae/sharjah-business-angels-network/
- What you get: Sharjah angel-investor network of SRTIP; funds early-stage startups.
- Who can apply: Early-stage startups, local and international, idea stage to revenue.
- Cost: Equity — angel stake
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside the UAE — source: “Access a curated pipeline of vetted local and international startups seeking early-stage funding and strategic guidance within the MENA region.” (https://srtip.ae/sharjah-business-angels-network/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Angel-investor network of the Sharjah Research, Technology & Innovation Park (SRTIP, next to University City, Sharjah). It brings together a growing community of investors focused on supporting early-stage startups and gives them a curated pipeline of vetted local and international startups seeking early-stage funding; startups reach SRTIP through the 'Launch Your Startup' enquiry on the page. Ticket sizes are not published.
- Eligibility: Early-stage startups, local and international — idea stage to revenue-generating
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://srtip.ae/sharjah-business-angels-network/ · checked October 2026

### Spade Ventures
- Type: Angel Syndicate (Angel network) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/spade-ventures/
- Website: https://spade.ventures/
- What you get: Syndicated angel tickets of $500,000–$2,000,000 via SPV.
- Who can apply: Early-stage technology companies in MENA and Pakistan.
- Cost: Equity — via SPV
- Status: Active
- Summary: Investor syndicate for early-stage technology across the Middle East, North Africa and Pakistan; investments are made through UK-based SPVs. Its syndicate page addresses investors, not founders — there is no published application route for startups.
- Eligibility: Early-stage technology companies · MENA and Pakistan
- Terms: Yes — equity via SPV
- Amount: $500,000–$2,000,000 per investment · minimum $20,000 per participating investor
- Primary source: https://spade.ventures/ · checked October 2026

### ADIB Ventures
- Type: Corporate venture capital (bank) (Corporate VC) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/adib-ventures/
- Website: https://www.adib.ae/en/adib-ventures
- What you get: Minority equity, mainly at Series A, in fintech and financial-technology companies.
- Who can apply: Tech companies past product–market fit with early but repeatable commercial traction.
- Cost: Minority equity — Sharia-compliant
- Status: Active
- Summary: Corporate venture and innovation arm of Abu Dhabi Islamic Bank (ADIB), launched in Abu Dhabi in October 2024. Its Sharia-compliant venture investment platform takes minority equity stakes in technology companies, mainly at Series A, in fintech and digital banking, payments and embedded finance, and AI and data in financial services; portfolio companies get access to ADIB’s banking infrastructure, regulatory expertise and regional network.
- Eligibility: Technology companies moving from product validation to scalable growth — clear product–market fit, early but repeatable commercial traction, a defined path to scalable growth and institutional readiness
- Terms: Minority equity, structured in line with Sharia principles
- Amount: Mainly Series A, selectively earlier or later · ticket and fund size not published
- Primary source: https://www.adib.ae/en/adib-ventures · checked October 2026

### Al Fardan Ventures
- Type: Corporate VC / family office (venture platform) (Corporate VC) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/al-fardan-ventures/
- Website: https://www.alfardanventures.com/
- Apply: https://www.alfardanventures.com/#/contact
- What you get: Direct equity investment from early stage to growth.
- Who can apply: Early-stage to growth-stage technology companies.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Family office and strategic investment arm of Al Fardan Holdings, headquartered at Innovation One in DIFC, Dubai. Identifies, incubates and scales technology-driven companies and makes direct investments from early stage to growth stage; its site reports $500M+ deployed capital and 40+ portfolio companies, among them GCC startups such as GulfHealth.care (UAE · KSA). Not the Qatari Alfardan Group.
- Eligibility: Early-stage to growth-stage technology companies
- Terms: Equity — direct investments; terms not published
- Amount: $500M+ deployed capital (own site) · ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.alfardanventures.com/ · checked October 2026

### CBIx
- Type: Corporate venture capital (bank) (Corporate VC) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/cbix/
- Website: https://cbix.ae/
- What you get: Bank-backed ventures arm investing in a small number of AI, fintech and Web3 firms.
- Who can apply: Ventures across banking, fintech, Web3 and tokenised assets.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Innovation and ventures arm of Commercial Bank International (CBI), a Dubai-headquartered UAE bank, launched in October 2025 as an independent, wholly owned subsidiary. It invests in and builds a small number of ventures and pilots innovations in AI, fintech, Web3, tokenised assets and gaming-focused financial services; ventures it backs include Zypl.ai and Boomitra.
- Eligibility: Ventures across banking, fintech, Web3 and beyond — it invests in a small number of companies
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Ticket and fund size not published
- Primary source: https://cbix.ae/ · checked October 2026

### CE-Ventures (Crescent Enterprises)
- Type: Corporate VC (Corporate VC) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/ce-ventures-crescent-enterprises/
- Website: https://www.crescententerprises.com/what-we-do/ce-ventures/
- What you get: Corporate venture capital, early to late stage and venture funds.
- Who can apply: High-growth companies in the US, MENA, India and Southeast Asia; no sector limits.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Corporate venture capital platform of Crescent Enterprises, investing in early- to late-stage high-growth companies and venture funds globally, unbound by sector or stage. Its investment scope spans the US, MENA, India and Southeast Asia, across industries including consumer, deep tech and biotech; it backs entrepreneurs with capital, resources and a global network. Crescent Enterprises lists offices in Sharjah and at DIFC in Dubai; the portfolio shown on its page includes Kitopi, NorthLadder, Tarabut, Vezeeta and Wamda.
- Eligibility: Early- to late-stage high-growth companies and venture funds in the US, MENA, India and Southeast Asia
- Terms: Yes — venture capital
- Amount: Ticket and fund size not published
- Primary source: https://www.crescententerprises.com/what-we-do/ce-ventures/ · checked October 2026

### du Ventures
- Type: Corporate venture capital (telecom) (Corporate VC) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/du-ventures/
- Website: https://www.du.ae/about/media-centre/newsdetail/du-launches-du-ventures
- What you get: $50M corporate venture fund of telecom operator du, managed by Shorooq.
- Who can apply: Tech startups that fit du’s strategy; a significant share goes to UAE-based ventures.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: $50 million corporate venture fund launched in June 2026 by du, the UAE telecom and digital services provider, developed in partnership with and managed by Shorooq. It partners with startups and founders turning emerging technologies into real-world solutions in fintech, AI, cybersecurity, cloud, loyalty, gaming, enterprise solutions and customer experience technologies; Shorooq prioritises investments that fit du’s corporate strategy, with a significant share dedicated specifically to UAE-based ventures.
- Eligibility: Startups and founders in fintech, AI, cybersecurity, cloud, loyalty, gaming, enterprise solutions and customer experience technologies that fit du’s corporate strategy; a significant share of investments goes to UAE-based ventures
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: $50M corporate venture fund · ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.du.ae/about/media-centre/newsdetail/du-launches-du-ventures · checked October 2026

### Dubizzle Group Ventures
- Type: Corporate venture capital (Corporate VC) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/dubizzle-group-ventures/
- Website: https://www.dubizzlegroup.com/ventures/
- Apply: https://www.dubizzlegroup.com/ventures/
- What you get: Dubizzle Group's early-stage investment arm for property, auto and re-commerce startups.
- Who can apply: GCC-focused startups, Pre-Seed to Series A.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: GCC-focused startups — source: “fast-growing early stage GCC focused startups” (https://www.dubizzlegroup.com/ventures/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Early-stage investment arm of Dubizzle Group (One Central, Dubai). It invests in fast-growing early-stage GCC-focused startups — favouring Pre-Seed, Seed and Series A — that can shape the future of real estate, automotive and re-commerce, and helps them scale using the group's presence, knowledge and marketplace experience. Pitches go through the form on its ventures page.
- Eligibility: GCC-focused startups at Pre-Seed, Seed and Series A
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.dubizzlegroup.com/ventures/ · checked October 2026

### e& capital
- Type: Corporate VC (Corporate VC) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/e-and-capital/
- Website: https://www.eand.com/en/capital.html
- What you get: Equity tickets averaging USD 5–30M; around $500M under management and committed.
- Who can apply: Series A/B tech companies in verticals strategic to e&.
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- Status: Active
- Summary: Investment pillar of e& (Etisalat Group) — around $500M in assets under management, capital deployed and commitments. Invests in Series A/B companies in industries aligned with e&'s verticals, acting as a bridge between MENA and global markets — backing MENA disruptors to scale internationally and international innovators entering MENA.
- Eligibility: Series A/B tech companies in verticals strategic to e&
- Terms: Yes — equity stake
- Amount: ~$500M under management, deployed and committed · average ticket USD 5–30M
- Primary source: https://www.eand.com/en/capital.html · checked October 2026

### Emirates NBD Innovation Fund
- Type: Corporate VC (Corporate VC) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/emirates-nbd-innovation-fund/
- Website: https://www.emiratesnbd.com/en/innovation/ventures
- Apply: https://www.emiratesnbd.com/en/campaigns/innovation-fund-contact-us
- What you get: Strategic equity, early to growth stage.
- Who can apply: FinTech, banktech and enterprise-tech with strategic fit to Emirates NBD.
- Cost: Equity — strategic stake
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside the UAE — source: “Through our Corporate Venture Fund, we are continually exploring opportunities, both regionally and globally.” (https://www.emiratesnbd.com/en/campaigns/innovation-fund-contact-us)
- Status: Active
- Summary: The strategic CVC of Emirates NBD Group (Dubai, est. 2023). Invests early to growth stage in fintech, banktech and enterprise tech with strategic relevance to the Group — portfolio spans AI analytics, blockchain payments, digital asset custody and digital trade.
- Eligibility: FinTech, banktech and enterprise tech with strategic fit to Emirates NBD
- Terms: Yes — strategic equity
- Amount: Fund size not published · early to growth stage
- Primary source: https://www.emiratesnbd.com/en/innovation/ventures · checked October 2026

### Fast Foundry (FAST Ventures)
- Type: Corporate venture studio and fund (Corporate VC) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/fast-foundry-fast-ventures/
- Website: https://foundry.wearefast.io/
- Apply: https://foundry.wearefast.io/contact
- What you get: Venture studio of FAST Ventures; invests from a US$3M fund in early-stage MENA startups.
- Who can apply: Early-stage founders in Saudi Arabia and MENA building adtech, creator, AI or marketing tools.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: Early-stage startups across Saudi Arabia and MENA — source: “Fast Foundry is investing up to US$3m in early stage start ups across Saudi Arabia and MENA.” (https://foundry.wearefast.io/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Venture studio and fund of FAST, the Dubai marketing and growth group (202 Emmay Tower, Dubai Internet City). Fast Foundry invests up to US$3 million in early-stage startups across Saudi Arabia and MENA - founders building adtech, creator, AI and marketing products - and takes them through five stages from 'Foundry Fit' and a go-to-market plan to launch, growth operations and a milestone review. Founders get workspace at FAST Ventures HQ, engineering, marketing and go-to-market support from FAST's agencies, cloud credits and legal, finance and back-office help. Applications go through the 'Start Your Application' form (idea, MVP, revenue or pre-seed/seed stage); ticket size per startup and equity terms are not published.
- Eligibility: Early-stage founders across Saudi Arabia and MENA building adtech, creator, AI or marketing products · application form accepts idea, MVP, revenue and pre-seed/seed stage
- Amount: US$3 million fund · ticket size per startup not published
- Primary source: https://foundry.wearefast.io/ · checked October 2026

### G42
- Type: Corporate / Strategic Tech Group (Corporate VC) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/g42/
- Website: https://g42.ai/
- What you get: Builds and holds AI companies strategically; not an open-application funder.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Abu Dhabi AI and cloud computing group — builds and holds AI-first companies (Core42, Presight, M42).
- Amount: Strategic — builds and holds AI companies
- Primary source: https://g42.ai/ · checked October 2026

### NeoVentures (Mashreq)
- Type: Corporate Venture Capital (banking) (Corporate VC) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/neoventures-mashreq/
- Website: https://www.neoventures.vc/
- What you get: Corporate venture capital from Mashreq's fund.
- Who can apply: Fintech and technology companies; co-creation partners.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Mashreq Bank's corporate venture capital arm. Invests in fintech, incubates ventures and co-creates digital and AI-driven solutions with the broader ecosystem; portfolio includes NewBridge, NymCard, Touché and Cashew.
- Eligibility: Fintech and technology companies; co-creation partnerships
- Terms: Yes — terms not published
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://www.neoventures.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Strategic Development Fund (SDF)
- Type: Corporate VC (Corporate VC) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/strategic-development-fund-sdf/
- Website: https://sdf.ae/
- Apply: https://sdf.ae/contact-us/#pane-debt
- What you get: VC tickets of $10–35M for early- and mid-stage frontier tech; venture debt via UAE banks.
- Who can apply: Frontier-tech companies anchoring projects or growth in the UAE; UAE SMEs for venture debt.
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- From abroad: Nationals or residents of the UAE — 51% Emirati owned and managed; Defense & security, aviation, oil and gas, autonomous systems; Capex and working capital AED 10M–60M — source: “The company should be based in the UAE” (https://sdf.ae/venture-debt/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Abu Dhabi investment entity wholly owned by EDGE Group, investing in advanced technologies and building industrial capabilities in the UAE. Three avenues: venture capital - early- and mid-stage frontier-technology companies with tickets of $10-35 million, anchoring projects and growth in the UAE; venture investments and partnerships - equity stakes and joint ventures of $20-100 million; and venture debt with UAE banks for SMEs in strategic sectors. Sectors include aerospace, advanced mobility, autonomous systems, robotics and advanced manufacturing; latest announced investment: Machina Labs (December 2025).
- Eligibility: Early- and mid-stage frontier-technology companies that anchor projects or growth in the UAE · venture debt for UAE-based SMEs in strategic sectors
- Terms: Yes — equity stakes and joint ventures; venture debt through UAE banks
- Amount: VC tickets $10-35M · venture investments and partnerships $20-100M · fund size not published
- Primary source: https://sdf.ae/ · checked October 2026

### The Greenhouse — Chalhoub Group Startup Studio
- Type: Corporate venture studio (Corporate VC) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/the-greenhouse-chalhoub-group-startup-studio/
- Website: https://www.chalhoubgreenhouse.com/startup-studio
- Apply: https://www.chalhoubgreenhouse.com/build-with-us
- What you get: Chalhoub venture studio; co-builds retail-tech ventures with capital and pre-seed funding.
- Who can apply: Entrepreneurs joining the studio to co-build a venture (video required).
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026) — source: “Fill out the form to get in touch with our team.” (https://www.chalhoubgreenhouse.com/build-with-us)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Corporate venture studio of Chalhoub Group (Building 6, Dubai Design District, Dubai; second office in Riyadh) that co-builds ventures from idea to exit in retail and its adjacent tech sectors — backed by capital, hands-on support and deep industry know-how. Pre-seed ventures get early-stage funding for product development, initial marketing and team assembly; entrepreneurs apply through the 'Build with us' form (LinkedIn profile and a short video required). Ticket sizes are not published.
- Eligibility: Entrepreneurs who join the studio to co-build a venture; LinkedIn profile and a short video about yourself required
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.chalhoubgreenhouse.com/startup-studio · checked October 2026

### Emirates Growth Fund (EGF)
- Type: Government-backed growth equity fund (State equity) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/emirates-growth-fund-egf/
- Website: https://www.egf.gov.ae/en/
- Apply: https://www.egf.gov.ae/en/submit-your-application/
- What you get: AED 1bn growth equity fund backed by Emirates Development Bank; AED 10–50M tickets.
- Who can apply: UAE-HQ companies with over AED 10M revenue in manufacturing, food, health, advanced tech.
- Cost: Equity — growth equity, AED 10–50M
- From abroad: A company in the UAE is required — Headquartered in the UAE; Over AED 10 million annual revenue — source: “The company must be headquartered in the UAE and play a strategic role in the national economy.” (https://www.egf.gov.ae/en/apply-for-funding/eligibility-criteria/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: The UAE's flagship growth equity platform: an AED 1 billion fund backed by Emirates Development Bank, with an office in Addax Tower, Reem Island, Abu Dhabi. It invests AED 10–50 million of primary capital per company in UAE-headquartered SMEs that have outgrown early-stage models and generate more than AED 10 million in annual revenue — priority sectors manufacturing, food security, advanced technology and healthcare. Investments include Tarmeem Healthcare Holding and CarniStore (AED 45 million, March 2026).
- Eligibility: UAE-headquartered companies with more than AED 10 million annual revenue that have outgrown the early stage
- Terms: Growth equity
- Amount: AED 10–50M primary capital per company (AED 1bn fund)
- Primary source: https://www.egf.gov.ae/en/ · checked October 2026

### Amplify Growth Fund
- Type: Venture / growth debt (Loan) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/amplify-growth-fund/
- Website: https://www.amplifygrowth.partners/
- Apply: https://airtable.com/apppWkvMcJTpIlNj3/shrEH6z8zSKXHdb8I
- What you get: Growth loans from $3M (average $10M) over 3–4 years, with a warrant component.
- Who can apply: VC-backed tech companies with a GCC nexus, $5M+ revenue and low cash burn.
- Cost: Loan with warrants — no equity round
- From abroad: Within the region: Region: MENA with a focus on the GCC; selected global businesses expanding into the region; Preferred: GCC nexus, VC-backed, >$5M revenue — source: “Our target region is MENA with a focus on the GCC, but can selectively partner with global businesses looking to expand into our region.” (https://www.amplifygrowth.partners/growth-debt)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Growth-debt fund in DIFC, Dubai (Gate Village Building 6), registered with the DFSA, managed by Ajeej Capital (DIFC) Limited and advised by Nuwa Capital. Provides flexible, minimally dilutive debt to tech-driven, venture-backed companies — typically a 3–4 year senior loan in 2–3 tranches with a warrant component; target region MENA with a focus on the GCC. Al Faisaliah Group names it as its venture-debt platform.
- Eligibility: VC-backed tech companies with a GCC nexus, more than $5M revenue, high growth, low cash burn and a concurrent or recent equity round
- Terms: No equity round — senior loan with a warrant component
- Amount: $3M+ per loan · $10M average · 3–4 year term · fund size not published
- Primary source: https://www.amplifygrowth.partners/ · checked October 2026

### Emirates Development Bank (EDB)
- Type: Federal development bank — loans, guarantees, co-lending (Loan) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/emirates-development-bank-edb/
- Website: https://www.edb.gov.ae/en
- Apply: https://www.edb.gov.ae/en/sme-customer-application
- What you get: Up to AED 2M per startup with no assets required, tenors up to 72 months.
- Who can apply: UAE-licensed startups and SMEs in priority sectors.
- Cost: No equity — repayable finance
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Federal development bank of the UAE — AED 30 billion lending support, 13,500 companies to be supported (site). Lends to startups without collateral — up to AED 2 million on a financial and qualitative assessment, tenors up to 72 months — and offers asset-backed financing of up to 70% of the assets. Applications run through its digital platform.
- Eligibility: UAE-licensed startups and SMEs in the priority sectors; no collateral required for the startup track
- Terms: No equity — repayable finance and guarantees
- Amount: Up to AED 2M per startup without assets · tenors up to 72 months
- Primary source: https://www.edb.gov.ae/en · checked October 2026

### Khalifa Fund
- Type: Government loan programmes (Loan) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/khalifa-fund/
- Website: https://www.khalifafund.ae/
- Apply: https://www.tamm.abudhabi/en/abu-dhabi-government-entities/khalifafundforenterprisedevelopment
- What you get: Loans; amounts not published, vary by programme.
- Who can apply: Businesses 100% owned by UAE nationals, operating in Abu Dhabi, owner aged 18–65.
- Cost: No equity — loan, repayable
- From abroad: Nationals or residents of the UAE — 100% owned by UAE nationals; legally established and operating in the Emirate of Abu Dhabi — source: “Be 100% owned by UAE nationals.” (https://www.khalifafund.ae/services/funding-scheme/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Abu Dhabi government fund for Emirati entrepreneurs. Seven financing programmes incl. a First-time Founders Loan; loan amounts not published. National cybersecurity accelerator with the UAE Cyber Security Council. No equity taken.
- Eligibility: Businesses 100% owned by UAE nationals, legally established and operating in Abu Dhabi; owner/partner aged 18–65 (site)
- Terms: No equity
- Amount: Programme-dependent; loan amounts not published
- Primary source: https://www.khalifafund.ae/ · checked October 2026

### MBRIF
- Type: Government loan guarantee + accelerator (Loan) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/mbrif/
- Website: https://mbrif.ae/
- Apply: https://mbrif.acceleratorapp.co/apply/program/guarantee-scheme
- What you get: Government-backed bank-loan guarantees.
- Who can apply: Innovative companies in the UAE, or planning to establish, in priority sectors.
- Cost: No equity — loan guarantee
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Company must be UAE-based or willing to become UAE-based; Guarantee Scheme states it allows applications from any nationality — source: “All innovative companies that are UAE-based or willing to be based in the UAE and want to create businesses of the future should apply!” (https://mbrif.ae/faq-2/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Mohammed Bin Rashid Innovation Fund — federal programme sponsored by the UAE Ministry of Finance. Provides government-backed loan guarantees via partner banks at favourable terms — not outright cash grants. Accelerator track = mentorship only, no cash.
- Eligibility: Innovative companies in UAE (or planning to establish); priority sectors per UAE National Innovation Strategy
- Terms: No equity
- Amount: Government-backed bank-loan guarantees — terms not published
- Primary source: https://mbrif.ae/ · checked October 2026

### Mohammed Bin Rashid Fund for SME (The Fund)
- Type: Loan fund — interest-free and bank-guaranteed loans (Loan) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/mohammed-bin-rashid-fund-for-sme-the-fund/
- Website: https://thefund.ae/
- Apply: https://thefund.ae/profile/intro
- What you get: Interest-free loans up to AED 1M; bank-guaranteed loans above AED 1M up to AED 3M.
- Who can apply: Dubai-based projects 100% owned and managed by UAE nationals.
- Cost: No equity — interest-free loan
- From abroad: Nationals or residents of the UAE — 100% UAE-national ownership and management; The project should be based in Dubai.; Applicant should be +21 years old.; Minimum 20% financial contribution by the applicant — source: “Projects/businesses should be 100% owned and managed by UAE national(s).” (https://thefund.ae/funding-criteria)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Dubai fund that finances innovative small and medium projects of Emirati investors: interest-free loans of up to AED 1 million, and credit loans of more than AED 1 million up to AED 3 million through a bank guarantee from Dubai SME's partner banks and financial institutions. Grace period of up to 24 months and five years to repay; funding consultation on the business plan and cash flow.
- Eligibility: 100% owned and managed by UAE nationals; project based in Dubai; applicant aged 21+
- Terms: No equity — loans; grace period up to 24 months, 5-year repayment
- Amount: Interest-free loans up to AED 1M · bank-guaranteed credit loans above AED 1M up to AED 3M
- Primary source: https://thefund.ae/ · checked October 2026

### Partners for Growth (PFG)
- Type: Growth debt / venture debt (Loan) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/partners-for-growth-pfg/
- Website: https://www.pfgrowth.com/
- What you get: Growth debt: loans of $1M–50M for post-revenue companies (global range).
- Who can apply: Growth-stage fintech, healthtech, insurtech, proptech and related tech firms.
- Cost: Loan — repayable
- Status: Active
- Summary: Growth-debt and asset-backed lender to technology companies at an inflection point, with a Dubai office at One Central (Dubai World Trade Centre) alongside Tiburon, Boston, Miami, Sydney and São Paulo. First GCC investment in 2020. GCC borrowers named on the site: Tabby, TruKKer, Bayzat, Syarah, Huspy, Ejari, Silkhaus, Comfi, Opontia and Rize.
- Eligibility: Growth-stage technology companies seeking flexible, customised financing — FinTech, HealthTech, InsurTech, PropTech, SME digital finance and SpaceTech named for the DIFC partnership
- Terms: Debt financing (no equity terms stated)
- Amount: Loans of $1M–50M (global range) for post-revenue companies with $5M–150M revenue or asset portfolios of $5M+
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://www.pfgrowth.com/ · checked October 2026

### Ruwad — Sharjah Foundation to Support Pioneering Entrepreneurs
- Type: Interest-free loans and bank Murabaha financing (Loan) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/ruwad-sharjah-foundation-to-support-pioneering-entrepreneurs/
- Website: https://ruwad.ae/ar/
- Apply: https://digital.sedd.gov.ae/digital/login
- What you get: Interest-free loans up to AED 400,000; bank Murabaha financing up to AED 2M.
- Who can apply: Emirati entrepreneurs with projects in the emirate of Sharjah.
- Cost: No equity — interest-free loan
- From abroad: Nationals or residents of the UAE — Project wholly owned by UAE nationals; Project based in the emirate of Sharjah; Project not older than 3 years — source: “أن يكون المشروع مملوكاً بالكامل لمواطني دولة الإمارات العربية المتحدة.” (https://ruwad.ae/ar/financing-program)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Sharjah foundation, established in 2005, that finances small and medium projects of Emirati entrepreneurs in the emirate of Sharjah: direct interest-free financing of up to AED 400,000, and indirect Murabaha financing through banks of up to AED 2 million. It takes no share of the projects' profits; member projects are exempt from a list of transaction fees.
- Eligibility: Emirati citizens; projects located in the emirate of Sharjah
- Terms: No equity — takes no share of profits
- Amount: Direct: up to AED 400,000 interest-free · via banks: up to AED 2M Murabaha
- Primary source: https://ruwad.ae/ar/ · checked October 2026

### Ruya Partners
- Type: Private credit (Loan) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/ruya-partners/
- Website: https://ruyapartners.com/
- What you get: Private credit deals of $15M to $25M.
- Who can apply: Mid-market, cash-generating private companies in MENA.
- Cost: Loan — private credit, repayable
- Status: Active
- Summary: Abu Dhabi private-credit manager (Al Sarab Tower, ADGM Square — regulated by the ADGM FSRA) lending to mid-market private companies in MENA with consistent cash-flow generation: growth and expansion, acquisitions, long-term working capital, recapitalisations and shareholder realignments. Jada Fund of Funds invested in its $250 million (SAR 938 million) fund in December 2023. Deals on the site: GymNation SAR 94M / $25M (exited May 2026 after a $100M HPS refinancing), Energia SAR 75M / $20M (Saudi Arabia), Epik Foods $15.5M, TruKKer, and Whiteshield $15M (June 2026).
- Eligibility: Mid-market, cash-generating private companies in MENA with experienced management — business owners, family offices, financial sponsors and management teams
- Terms: No equity — private credit
- Amount: Deal sizes on the site $15M to $25M
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://ruyapartners.com/ · checked October 2026

### Stride Ventures
- Type: Venture debt (Loan) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/stride-ventures/
- Website: https://strideventures.global/
- Apply: mailto:pitch@strideventures.in
- What you get: Venture debt averaging $4M, repayable over 6 to 18 months.
- Who can apply: Series A+ companies that have raised or plan to raise venture capital.
- Cost: Loan — repayable, 6 to 18 months
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture debt firm founded in 2019, with an ADGM-incorporated entity, Stride Ventures Limited, regulated by the FSRA under Financial Services Permission No. 220154 (Al Khatem Tower, Abu Dhabi), and a Riyadh office at The Garage (KACST). Over $2 billion in credit enabled globally across 7 funds, 220+ portfolio companies (site). Backed by Jada Fund of Funds (March 2026). In August 2026 it announced its evolution into a multi-strategy alternative asset management platform.
- Eligibility: Companies from Series A onwards that have raised venture capital or plan to; industry-agnostic
- Terms: No equity — venture debt
- Amount: Average ticket $4M · repayment 6 to 18 months · $2B+ credit enabled
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds
- Primary source: https://strideventures.global/ · checked October 2026

### Tenami Capital
- Type: Revenue-based investment (Loan) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/tenami-capital/
- Website: https://tenami.capital/
- What you get: Revenue-based growth capital for founder-led tech companies, from DIFC Dubai.
- Who can apply: Companies with $5M+ revenue, 20–30% growth and their own technology.
- Cost: Capped return, bought back from revenue
- Status: Active
- Summary: Revenue-based investor in DIFC, Dubai, that funds fast-growing, founder-led companies with growth capital: a callable instrument (equity or convertible note) with a capped return, which the company buys back from a fixed share of its revenue. It looks for $5M+ revenue and 20–30% growth; investments include Ogram ($3M, January 2025), Golden Scent and Hyperspace.
- Eligibility: Minimum LTM revenue $5M · 20–30% growth · funded or runway to profitability · own technology · audited financials
- Terms: Callable equity or convertible note with a capped return; bought back from revenue
- Amount: Published tickets: $3M (Ogram 2025, YOUGotaGift 2023)
- Primary source: https://tenami.capital/ · checked October 2026

### Dubai Future District Fund
- Type: Sovereign Fund of Funds + Direct VC (Fund of funds) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/dubai-future-district-fund/
- Website: https://www.dfdf.vc/
- What you get: Commits LP capital to VC funds and also makes direct equity tickets.
- Who can apply: Local, regional and international VC funds in D33 sectors, and startups in their portfolios.
- Cost: Indirect — via funds, plus some direct equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Dubai's venture capital fund of funds and investments platform (founding shareholders DIFC and Dubai Future Foundation) — invests into VC funds and alongside them in future-economy startups. AED 1 billion fund size; 20 fund-of-funds investments and 22 direct startup investments (September 2026). $1.65B in capital commitments catalysed, 190+ startups supported (June 2025 review). 2026 fund commitments include US PropTech firm Camber Creek and a global growth fund managed by UK-headquartered Nordstar Partners (Sep 2026); Emirates NBD partnership (Aug 2026) gives portfolio startups fintech/AI deployment routes. Emerging-fund-manager programme announced for 2026.
- Eligibility: Local, regional and international VC funds in sectors aligned with Dubai’s D33 Economic Agenda, and startups in their portfolios
- Terms: Yes — via funds and direct
- Amount: Fund LP commitments + direct tickets
- Also backs (named on its own site; no GCC base, so not on the map): Arbor Ventures, Camber Creek, E14 Fund, Matter Venture Partners, MetaProp, Nordstar Partners, Red Glass Ventures
- Primary source: https://dfdf.vc/ · checked October 2026

### AstroLabs
- Type: Expansion platform & managed accelerator (Support) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/astrolabs/
- Website: https://astrolabs.com/
- What you get: UAE/Saudi setup, licensing and coworking services; no direct funding.
- Who can apply: Companies expanding into the UAE or Saudi Arabia.
- Cost: Service-based; cost not published
- Status: Active
- Summary: Gulf business-expansion platform (Dubai + Riyadh, since 2013). Market entry into the UAE and Saudi Arabia, coworking, and managed innovation programmes for corporates and governments. 2,000+ companies supported.
- Eligibility: Companies expanding into the UAE / Saudi Arabia; corporates & governments running programmes
- Amount: Service-based
- Primary source: https://astrolabs.com/ · checked October 2026

### Dtec (Dubai Silicon Oasis)
- Type: Tech hub + free zone campus (Support) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/dtec-dubai-silicon-oasis/
- Website: https://dtec.ae/
- Apply: https://www.sandboxaccelerator.com/
- What you get: One-stop free zone setup plus access to Oraseya Capital and accelerators.
- Who can apply: Tech startups and SMEs.
- Cost: SAFE — $150,000 via Sandbox ($110K cash + $40K fee)
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Largest tech startup coworking campus in the Middle East, an initiative of Dubai Silicon Oasis Authority in Dubai's technology free zone — 1,000 startups from 70 nationalities across Technohub 1 and 2 and Dubai Digital Park. Home to Oraseya Capital (funding arm), the Sandbox programme and the Intel Innovation Center.
- Eligibility: Tech startups and SMEs; one-stop free zone company setup via DSOA
- Terms: Convertible — Sandbox invests $150,000 via SAFE note ($110,000 cash + $40,000 programme fee)
- Amount: Access to Oraseya Capital · accelerator programmes
- Primary source: https://dtec.ae/ · checked October 2026

### Endeavor MENA + Catalyst
- Type: Founder Community + Co-investment Fund (Support) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/endeavor-mena-catalyst/
- Website: https://uae.endeavor.org/
- Apply: https://endeavor.org/entrepreneur-experience/apply/
- What you get: Catalyst co-investment plus a global mentor network.
- Who can apply: Scale-ups with product-market fit; main operations or HQ in an Endeavor market.
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Main operations or HQ must be based in an Endeavor market; Diaspora members of an Endeavor market are also invited to connect — source: “Your main operations or HQ are based out of an Endeavor market.” (https://endeavor.org/entrepreneur-experience/apply/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Global community of high-impact entrepreneurs with a UAE office. Endeavor Catalyst — its rules-based co-investment fund — has $540M+ AUM across four funds and 405+ investments in 35+ markets.
- Amount: Catalyst co-investment + global mentor network
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://uae.endeavor.org/ · checked October 2026

### VentureOne
- Type: Deep tech venture builder (Support) · Country: UAE
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/ventureone/
- Website: https://www.ventureone.ae/
- What you get: Government-backed venture building.
- Who can apply: Partners with researchers and industry on validated problems.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture builder and commercialisation arm of Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Technology Research Council (ATRC). Turns applied research from the Technology Innovation Institute (TII) into standalone deep tech companies — spin-outs include SteerAI (autonomous mobility) and QuantumGate (post-quantum cryptography). Builds from validated problems.
- Eligibility: Partners with researchers and industry on validated problems
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://www.ventureone.ae/ · checked October 2026

## Qatar — 65 programmes

### Alchemist Doha
- Type: Accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/alchemist-doha/
- Website: https://www.alchemistaccelerator.com/doha
- Apply: https://www.alchemistaccelerator.com/apply
- What you get: Investment support; amount not published (one portfolio firm raised $1M).
- Who can apply: Enterprise tech startups across Qatar, the MENA region and emerging markets.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Qatar — source: “Alchemist Doha supports enterprise tech startups across Qatar, the MENA region, and emerging markets worldwide—helping founders use Doha as a launch pad while tapping Alchemist's global network.” (https://www.alchemistaccelerator.com/doha)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Alchemist Accelerator's Doha programme, integrated with Qatar's innovation ecosystem through the QRDI Council and its Innolight platform. Supports enterprise tech startups across Qatar, the MENA region and emerging markets, using Doha as a launch pad, with founder-friendly investment and permanent access to Alchemist's global network of mentors, investors and alumni.
- Eligibility: Enterprise tech startups across Qatar, the MENA region and emerging markets worldwide
- Terms: Yes — terms not published
- Amount: Investment amount not published — one portfolio company is cited as having raised $1M from Alchemist Doha, which is a single outcome, not a stated programme ceiling
- Primary source: https://www.alchemistaccelerator.com/doha · checked October 2026

### CDL-Doha
- Type: Deep-Tech Mentorship Programme (Accelerator) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/cdl-doha/
- Website: https://creativedestructionlab.com/locations/doha/
- Apply: https://creativedestructionlab.com/application-triage/
- What you get: Non-dilutive mentorship, with investor access via the CDL network.
- Who can apply: Science- and deep-tech ventures.
- Cost: No equity for participation
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Qatar — source: “Companies from around the world can apply to any of CDL's 17 locations across 10 countries.” (https://creativedestructionlab.com/application-triage/)
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Creative Destruction Lab’s first site in the GCC — science-driven, objectives-based mentorship for deep-tech ventures, operated by ESMT Berlin with HEC Paris. Deep-tech streams in artificial intelligence, health, and agriculture & food; CDL-Doha is to support more than 150 ventures over three years. CDL charges no fees and takes no equity.
- Eligibility: Science- and deep-tech ventures
- Terms: No equity for participation
- Amount: Non-dilutive mentorship — investor access via the CDL network
- Primary source: https://creativedestructionlab.com/locations/doha/ · checked October 2026

### DEEP Pioneers (QRDI)
- Type: University spin-off venture builder (Accelerator) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/deep-pioneers-qrdi/
- Website: https://innolight.qrdi.org.qa/en/opportunities/p/179
- Apply: https://airtable.com/appSJIpM1Sgsmo4WU/pag09ngxNSINiXcAJ/form
- What you get: Venture-building support; no funding figure published.
- Who can apply: Scientists, researchers and university Technology Transfer Offices in priority science and health fields.
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: QRDI Council venture-building programme that turns university research into spin-off companies: scouting of research institutes and entrepreneurs, a two-day matching workshop in Doha to form founding teams, six months of hybrid coaching, then support with legal company formation and IP deal structuring. First cycle September 2026 – March 2027, complemented by capacity building for university Technology Transfer Offices. Listed as Open on Innolight (checked September 2026).
- Eligibility: Scientists and researchers with promising technologies, and university Technology Transfer Offices; priority areas natural sciences, engineering and technology, medical and health sciences, agricultural sciences
- Terms: Not stated
- Amount: Venture-building support — no funding figure published
- Primary source: https://innolight.qrdi.org.qa/en/opportunities/p/179 · checked October 2026

### Digital & Beyond (Ooredoo × QBIC)
- Type: Corporate-powered incubator (Ooredoo) (Accelerator) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/digital-and-beyond-ooredoo-qbic/
- Website: https://www.qdb.qa/en/develop-your-business/incubation-hub
- What you get: Incubator becoming a QDB–Ooredoo investment platform (MoU Feb 2026).
- Who can apply: Tech startups and SMEs in Qatar, and growing tech businesses wanting to soft-land in Qatar.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Specialised incubator powered by Ooredoo, listed on Qatar Development Bank’s Incubation Hub page: it develops and accelerates promising technology-focused startups and SMEs based in Qatar and fast-growing tech businesses looking to soft-land in Qatar, via a holistic range of support and funding solutions. Its former page on qbic.qa now forwards to that QDB page. In February 2026 QDB and Ooredoo signed an MoU to turn Digital & Beyond into a jointly owned investment platform, “Digital & Beyond Ventures”, for Qatar-based startups in advanced technology sectors, aiming to invest in about 10 startups a year; since 2016 the incubator has supported more than 35 startups with QAR 4 million in investment and in-kind support.
- Eligibility: Technology-focused startups and SMEs based in Qatar, and fast-growing tech businesses looking to soft-land in Qatar
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Incubation and acceleration — funding figures not published
- Primary source: https://www.qdb.qa/en/develop-your-business/incubation-hub · checked October 2026

### Digital Incubation Center
- Type: Government incubator (Accelerator) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/digital-incubation-center/
- Website: https://dic.mcit.gov.qa/
- What you get: MCIT's digital incubator; programme details not currently published.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Digital Incubation Center of Qatar's Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT); its website is under construction (checked October 2026).
- Eligibility: Not published
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://dic.mcit.gov.qa/ · checked October 2026

### HBKU Entrepreneurship
- Type: University incubator (Accelerator) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/hbku-entrepreneurship/
- Website: https://innovation.hbku.edu.qa/innovation-funds/IFO
- Apply: https://innovation.hbku.edu.qa/e-services
- What you get: Four funds: IBDA up to QAR 250K, IIF up to QAR 200K, SOCIF up to QAR 100K, SIF up to QAR 30K.
- Who can apply: HBKU students, faculty and researchers; IBDA is for start-ups founded by QF members.
- Cost: Terms not published
- From abroad: A company in Qatar is required — Established in Qatar or in the process of registration; open to QF members, priority for companies founded or led by Qatari nationals — source: “Open to QF members, with priority for companies founded or led by Qatari nationals. Companies must be established in Qatar or in the process of registration.” (https://innovation.hbku.edu.qa/innovation-funds/innovative-business-discovery-acceleration)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Hamad Bin Khalifa University's innovation ecosystem, run through its Innovation Funds Office. Four funds are documented on HBKU's own pages: SIF for students, IIF for academia-industry collaboration, SOCIF for faculty and researchers, and IBDA — a two-year programme of up to QAR 250,000 for young start-ups founded by Qatar Foundation members. The same office also lists QRDI's Open Innovation and Knowledge Transfer Partnership programmes.
- Eligibility: HBKU students (SIF) · HBKU faculty, researchers, scientists and staff (SOCIF) · academia-industry projects with an industry partner (IIF) · start-ups founded by Qatar Foundation members, established in Qatar or in the process of registration, with priority for companies founded or led by Qatari nationals (IBDA)
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: IBDA: up to QAR 250,000 over two years · IIF: up to QAR 50,000 with in-kind co-funding, or up to QAR 200,000 (matched 100% by HBKU) with cash co-funding from an industry partner · SOCIF: up to QAR 50,000, or up to QAR 100,000 for two or more faculty members from different HBKU colleges · SIF: up to QAR 15,000 (single student) or up to QAR 30,000 (two or more students from different HBKU colleges), max 8 months
- Primary source: https://innovation.hbku.edu.qa/innovation-funds/IFO · checked October 2026

### Nama Center — Social Incubator
- Type: Social incubator (Accelerator) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/nama-center-social-incubator/
- Website: https://www.nama.org.qa/en/node/376
- Apply: https://www.research.net/r/NAMAFORM
- What you get: Incubation and training support; no funding figure published.
- Who can apply: Qatari nationals and residents with an existing project capable of growth.
- From abroad: Nationals or residents of Qatar — Qatari nationals and residents of Qatar (translation of the Arabic target-group line) — source: “رواد الأعمال الفعليون والمحتملون (قطري ومقيم)، من أصحاب المشاريع (الاقتصادية والاجتماعية ) ومن الجنسين.” (https://www.nama.org.qa/en/node/376)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Social Development Center (Nama), affiliated with the Qatar Social Work Foundation — not with Qatar Foundation, a separate and much larger Doha institution with a similar name. Its Social Incubator takes creative ideas on two tracks, economic and social, and accompanies them through a structured incubation period built on learning, participation and hands-on support. Application is online and currently open.
- Eligibility: Actual and prospective entrepreneurs, Qatari nationals and residents, all genders · an existing project capable of development and growth · creative and production skills · strong motivation and commitment
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Incubation and training — no funding figure published
- Primary source: https://www.nama.org.qa/en/node/376 · checked October 2026

### Qatar FinTech Hub Accelerator
- Type: Accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qatar-fintech-hub-accelerator/
- Website: https://fintech.qa/
- Apply: https://www.f6s.com/qfth-wave-8-program/about
- What you get: Pre-Acceleration and Acceleration programmes for fintechs.
- Who can apply: Early-stage fintechs validating MVPs and scaling fintechs; local and international startups.
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Qatar — source: “Looking for companies: in Emerging Technologies, Digital Lending, FinTech, InsurTech, WealthTech, Open Banking located in Africa, Antarctica, Asia, Australia/NZ, Caribbean, Eastern Europe, Europe, Middle East, North America, South America” (https://www.f6s.com/qfth-wave-8-program/about)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Pre-Acceleration and Acceleration waves for FinTech startups, run by Qatar FinTech Hub and powered by Qatar Development Bank. The programmes include regulatory support and help preparing regulatory licensing applications — QFTH does not itself grant Qatar Central Bank sandbox access.
- Eligibility: Early-stage fintechs validating MVPs (Pre-Acceleration) · fintechs scaling through go-to-market, regional expansion and localization (Acceleration) · both open to local and international startups
- Amount: Not published on fintech.qa
- Primary source: https://fintech.qa/ · checked October 2026

### QBIC
- Type: Business incubator (Accelerator) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qbic/
- Website: https://www.qdb.qa/en/develop-your-business/incubation-hub
- What you get: Business incubation support.
- Who can apply: Entrepreneurs with a business idea, and companies that want to grow.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Qatar Business Incubation Center, listed on Qatar Development Bank’s Incubation Hub page as a mixed-use business incubation center that supports entrepreneurs and companies with an idea to start a business or an existing business to grow, through its programmes. QBIC’s own website now forwards to that QDB page, which names no programme dates, amounts or application form; the Pre-Accelerator and Accelerator programmes listed on qbic.qa earlier are no longer shown.
- Eligibility: Entrepreneurs with an idea to start a business, and companies that want to grow an existing business
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Not published — QDB’s Incubation Hub page names no amounts
- Primary source: https://www.qdb.qa/en/develop-your-business/incubation-hub · checked October 2026

### QDB Pre-Accelerator 2026
- Type: Pre-Accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qdb-pre-accelerator-2026/
- Website: https://www.qdb.qa/
- What you get: Closed — the 2026 cycle's terms are no longer published.
- Status: Closed
- Primary source: https://www.qdb.qa/ · checked October 2026

### QSTP Incubation
- Type: Free zone incubator (Accelerator) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qstp-incubation/
- Website: https://qstp.qa/programs/incubate/
- Apply: https://forms.gle/XUEcVqUL7ofV6N9t6
- Closes: 1 Nov 2026
- What you get: In-kind support: Doha workspace and housing for a four-week Sprint, talent and investor access.
- Who can apply: Local and international science/tech entrepreneurs with a prototype, MVP or validated business model.
- Cost: Equity — 1.5% deferred SAFE-style stake
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Must conduct R&D and product development at QSTP (Qatar); Sprint track requires roughly 4 weeks of in-person participation in Doha (accommodation and workspace provided) — source: “Local or international science and technology companies” (https://qstp.qa/programs/incubate/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Free-zone incubation at Qatar Science & Technology Park (Qatar Foundation). A four-week Sprint in Doha, followed by an eight-week Incubation for those selected, for which QSTP takes 1.5% equity in exchange for its in-kind services. Relaunched as a revamped programme with the Fall 2026 cohort, which started on 1 September 2026 with 52 startups (25 local, 27 international) across 19 sectors.
- Eligibility: Local and international science and technology companies with a prototype, MVP or technically validated product direction and a clearly defined, scalable business model (Sprint) · Incubation is by selection from Sprint graduates
- Terms: 1.5% equity on entering the Incubation phase - deferred, SAFE-style structure, stated on the programme page and the application form
- Amount: In-kind package, no cash grant: accommodation and workspace in Doha for the four-week Sprint, university talent access, investor and partner introductions, company registration support · 1.5% deferred SAFE-style equity on entering Incubation
- Primary source: https://qstp.qa/programs/incubate/ · checked October 2026

### Scale Now (MCIT)
- Type: Government Accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/scale-now-mcit/
- Website: https://www.mcit.gov.qa/en/initiatives/scale-now
- What you get: Non-financial capability building and market access support.
- Who can apply: Qatar-registered companies with a market-ready digital product and plans to expand.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Growth programme of Qatar’s Ministry of Communications and Information Technology (MCIT) for the country’s digital entrepreneurs — capability building and mentorship, local go-to-market support and expansion readiness, delivered with the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, QDB, QRDI and Invest Qatar. Launched in February 2025; in August 2026 ten companies graduated from the third cohort and a fourth cohort of twelve began, bringing the alumni community to 29 companies.
- Eligibility: A company registered in Qatar with a digital product or service ready for the market · financial and operational stability · a clear vision for regional and global expansion · competitive selection
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Non-financial — capability building and market access
- Primary source: https://www.mcit.gov.qa/en/initiatives/scale-now · checked October 2026

### Scale7 — Creative and Cultural Industries Hub
- Type: Creative industries platform — four tracks (Accelerator) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/scale7-creative-and-cultural-industries-hub/
- Website: https://scale7.qdb.qa/
- Apply: https://scale7.qdb.qa/en/programs
- What you get: Over QAR 13.5M in support provided to date across 88 startups.
- Who can apply: Creative-sector startups from pre-MVP (Hackathon) to MVP-ready and market-ready (accelerators).
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Must be established or plan to be established as a Qatari entity during the program (stated for both the Pre-Acceleration Program and the Acceleration Program) — source: “Must be established or plan to be established as a Qatari entity during the program.” (https://scale7.qdb.qa/en/programs)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Run by Qatar Development Bank; repositioned on 8 December 2025 into the Creative and Cultural Industries Hub, a national platform for six creative sectors. Track record to date: 88 startups, 80+ advisors, over QAR 13.5 million in investment, advisory and in-kind support.
- Amount: Over QAR 13.5M in support provided to date across 88 startups
- Primary source: https://scale7.qdb.qa/ · checked October 2026

### Snoonu Startup Factory
- Type: Corporate venture programme (two tracks) (Accelerator) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/snoonu-startup-factory/
- Website: https://startups.snoonu.com/
- Apply: https://startups.snoonu.com/
- What you get: Early Stage funding up to $50K; Growth Stage funding up to $100K.
- Who can apply: GCC-registered (or willing) tech startups with an MVP or early users; teams of 2+ preferred.
- Cost: Convertible loan — converts at 15–20% discount or cap
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Register an entity anywhere in the GCC, or be willing to; In person at Snoonu HQ in Doha full-time ("Do I need to be in Doha full-time? Yes. The program is in-person at the Snoonu HQ. We help with relocation logistics.") — source: “Registered or willing to register your entity anywhere in the GCC.” (https://startups.snoonu.com/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Corporate venture programme of Qatar super app Snoonu. Two tracks: Early Stage up to $50K, Growth Stage up to $100K, both as convertible loans. Founders must be full-time at Snoonu HQ in Doha. Convertible loans convert at the next round at a 15–20% discount or valuation cap (site FAQ).
- Eligibility: Teams of 2+ strongly preferred, with at least one full-time technical co-founder · working MVP or early users · registered or willing to register anywhere in the GCC · full-time presence at Snoonu HQ Doha required · no application fee
- Terms: No upfront equity — convertible loan, converts at next round at 15–20% discount or valuation cap
- Amount: Early Stage up to $50K · Growth Stage up to $100K
- Primary source: https://startups.snoonu.com/ · checked October 2026

### TASMU Accelerator
- Type: Accelerator — pre-acceleration plus six-month acceleration (Accelerator) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/tasmu-accelerator/
- Website: https://accelerator.tasmu.gov.qa/
- What you get: QAR 200,000 (about $55,000) cash prize to top cohort startups, plus a virtual programme.
- Who can apply: Global startups in transport/logistics, healthcare, environment or smart cities.
- Cost: No equity — 100% founder ownership retained
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Accelerator launched by the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology as part of its flagship TASMU Smart Qatar programme. Runs on a virtual acceleration platform, so global startups can take part remotely. Third cohort graduated with a cumulative portfolio value of more than QAR 4 billion. Fourth cohort is under way: registration ran March to May 2026, screening June, pre-acceleration June to July, acceleration July to December 2026, support programme from December onwards.
- Eligibility: Startups in transportation and logistics, healthcare, environment and smart cities · global applicants welcome, participation is virtual
- Terms: 0% — the programme states 100% enablement, 0% equity taken; founders retain full ownership
- Amount: QAR 200,000 (about $55,000) cash prize each to the top startups of the cohort
- Primary source: https://accelerator.tasmu.gov.qa/ · checked October 2026

### The Utopia Studio
- Type: AI venture studio (co-build model) (Accelerator) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/the-utopia-studio/
- Website: https://www.utopia-studio.co/
- Apply: https://www.utopia-studio.co/apply
- What you get: USD 7,000 stipend plus up to USD 2,000 compute; co-build in product, tech and growth.
- Who can apply: Individuals joining as Co-Build Fellows, not incorporated startups.
- Cost: Bespoke equity; stipend and compute are not salary
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — The minimum in-person commitment in Doha is small — source: “We accept applications from anywhere in the world.” (https://www.utopia-studio.co/faq)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Doha-based AI venture studio — co-builds AI companies with domain experts. Part of the Utopia group: its own site lists Qatar Development Bank as ecosystem partner and links its sister fund A-typical Ventures. 14 fellows across 6 opportunity spaces (Oct 2026).
- Eligibility: Individuals join as Co-Build Fellows rather than incorporated startups · selection emphasises domain fluency, pattern recognition, bias to action, trust capital and collaboration instinct · apply via the embedded Ashby form on the studio site
- Terms: Yes — bespoke equity percentage per Fellowship Summary Sheet; housing offered on a best-endeavours basis, not guaranteed
- Amount: USD 7,000 stipend plus up to USD 2,000 for compute and tooling (non-repayable, not salary) · co-build support in product, AI-native engineering, capital and go-to-market
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): QIA Fund of Funds
- Primary source: https://www.utopia-studio.co/ · checked October 2026

### WISE EdTech Accelerator
- Type: Accelerator (year-long, Local and International Track) (Accelerator) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/wise-edtech-accelerator/
- Website: https://www.wise-qatar.org/innovation/edtech-accelerator
- Apply: https://wise-qatar.awardsplatform.com
- Closes: 31 Oct 2026
- What you get: Year-long coaching, masterclasses and investor network; no cash amount published.
- Who can apply: For-profit edtech startups beyond MVP with traction and sales; typically seed to pre-Series A.
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Qatar — source: “The Accelerator is agnostic to geography, with past cohorts including ventures from both developed and developing countries.” (https://www.wise-qatar.org/innovation/edtech-accelerator)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Year-long edtech accelerator run by WISE (Qatar Foundation): one-to-one coaching, masterclasses with industry experts and access to a global network of investors and education specialists - 100+ hours of coaching and three in-person bootcamps at major education conferences. Two tracks: a Qatar-focused Local Track with partners including QSTP and QRDI, and an International Track for startups from across the globe. 4-6 startups per cohort at a 5% acceptance rate; the cohort presents at the WISE 13 Summit in Doha. Applications open 28 September 2026 and close 31 October 2026 (hard deadline), submitted through the Awards Force platform.
- Eligibility: For-profit edtech startups beyond MVP with traction and sales · typically seed to pre-Series A with less than $500,000 raised · geography-agnostic · preference for co-founder teams · NGOs and nonprofits not eligible
- Amount: Programme support - no cash amount published; Local Track offers access to local funding and grants via partners
- Primary source: https://www.wise-qatar.org/innovation/edtech-accelerator · checked October 2026

### A-typical Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/a-typical-ventures/
- Website: https://a-typicalventures.com/
- Apply: https://p0mbp38n126.typeform.com/to/H11AB7ft
- What you get: Equity investment from Pre-Seed to Series A; tickets US$150k–750k by stage.
- Who can apply: Early-stage founders in the GCC, Levant, Türkiye and Pakistan.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: GCC, Levant, Türkiye and Pakistan — source: “Headquartered in Qatar, we invest across the GCC, Levant, Türkiye and Pakistan” (https://a-typicalventures.com/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: QFC-domiciled Middle East fund & venture studio by Utopia (QIA + QDB backed). Backs atypical founders across the region.
- Amount: Pre-Seed US$150k–350k · Seed US$350k–500k · Pre-Series A US$350k–750k
- Primary source: https://a-typicalventures.com/ · checked October 2026

### B Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (multi-stage) (VC fund) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/b-capital/
- Website: https://b.capital/
- Apply: https://gateway.invest.qa/user/venture-capital-funding
- What you get: $12+ billion under management, investing from early to late stage.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Qatar — source: “We empower entrepreneurs to think bigger. Scale faster. Grow global.” (https://b.capital/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Global multi-stage firm with a strategic partnership with Boston Consulting Group. Named in the QIA Fund of Funds in February 2025, when QIA said the firm would open a regional headquarters in Doha in 2025; b.capital now lists a Doha office at The Pearl alongside Los Angeles, San Francisco, New York, Austin, Hong Kong and Singapore. Accepts startup pitches through the VC funding module on the Invest Qatar Gateway — free account required.
- Terms: Yes — equity
- Amount: $12+ billion under management · early to late stage
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): QIA Fund of Funds, Sanabil Investments
- Primary source: https://b.capital/ · checked October 2026

### Builders VC
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/builders-vc/
- Website: https://www.builders.vc/
- Apply: https://gateway.invest.qa/user/venture-capital-funding
- What you get: Early-stage equity investment.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: San Francisco early-stage VC — the firm does not describe itself as deep tech. QIA Fund of Funds partner with a Doha office announced February 2025. Accepts startup pitches through the VC funding module on the Invest Qatar Gateway — free account required.
- Amount: Early stage — no specific range published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): QIA Fund of Funds
- Primary source: https://www.builders.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Deerfield Management
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/deerfield-management/
- Website: https://deerfield.com/
- Apply: https://gateway.invest.qa/user/venture-capital-funding
- What you get: Invests across the capital structure, startup to mature company.
- Cost: Across the capital structure
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: An investment firm dedicated to advancing healthcare (more than $16 billion under management, Dec 2025). QIA Fund of Funds partner; announced a regional office in Doha (Deerfield, February 2025); QIA said Deerfield will direct a healthcare startup accelerator run virtually and on the ground in Doha (QIA, February 2025). Accepts startup pitches through the VC funding module on the Invest Qatar Gateway — free account required.
- Amount: Early-stage to growth (all stages)
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): QIA Fund of Funds
- Primary source: https://deerfield.com/ · checked October 2026

### Doha Venture Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/doha-venture-capital/
- Website: https://dvc.qa/
- What you get: Growth-stage equity investment.
- Who can apply: Companies with a proven concept, attractive business model, scalability and a global edge.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: State-linked Qatar vehicle for growth-stage companies, chaired by the Minister of Commerce and Industry with the CEO of the Qatar Investment Authority as Vice Chairman; Mohammed Al-Abdulla is Chief Executive Officer. No portfolio, application route or dated activity published.
- Amount: Growth stage
- Primary source: https://dvc.qa/ · checked October 2026

### Founders Circle Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/founders-circle-capital/
- Website: https://www.founderscircle.com/
- Apply: https://gateway.invest.qa/user/venture-capital-funding
- What you get: Growth-stage equity in scaled, venture-backed businesses.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: San Francisco growth-stage VC with $1.6B+ assets under management. QIA announced on 9 December 2025 that the firm will open its first international office in Doha as its MENA regional headquarters — opening not yet confirmed. Accepts startup pitches through the VC funding module on the Invest Qatar Gateway — free account required.
- Amount: Growth stage — scaled, venture-backed businesses (QIA); ticket size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): QIA Fund of Funds
- Primary source: https://www.founderscircle.com/ · checked October 2026

### Golden Gate Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/golden-gate-ventures/
- Website: https://www.goldengate.vc/
- What you get: Equity investment; the firm reports US$300M+ AUM and 150+ companies funded (site).
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: USD 100 million MENA fund of the Singapore firm Golden Gate Ventures. Doha office at Tornado Tower, West Bay (site); the firm reports over US$300M AUM and more than 150 companies funded.
- Amount: US$300M+ AUM · 150+ companies funded (site)
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Oman Investment Authority (OIA)
- Primary source: https://www.goldengate.vc/ · checked October 2026

### Greycroft
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/greycroft/
- Website: https://www.greycroft.com/
- Apply: https://gateway.invest.qa/user/venture-capital-funding
- What you get: Multi-stage equity investment.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: New York, Los Angeles and San Francisco venture firm, named partner in the Qatar Investment Authority Fund of Funds. QIA expanded that programme to $3 billion on 1 February 2026 across 12 fund managers; partners are encouraged to have portfolio companies set up regional HQs in Doha, and Qatar-based portfolio companies can draw on the programme compute offering. Accepts startup pitches through the VC funding module on the Invest Qatar Gateway — free account required.
- Amount: Multi-stage — ticket size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): QIA Fund of Funds
- Primary source: https://www.greycroft.com/ · checked October 2026

### GrowthX Capital
- Type: Venture investment hub — direct and fund LP (VC fund) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/growthx-capital/
- Website: https://www.growthx-capital.com/
- What you get: Equity investment from a $150M fund, pre-seed to Series A.
- Who can apply: Pre-seed to Series A startups across the GCC and MENA.
- Cost: Equity — direct investment stake
- Status: Active
- Summary: Doha venture investment hub founded by Hamad Al-Hajri, Founder & CEO of Snoonu. Dual mandate: direct pre-seed to Series A investments across GCC and MENA, and LP positions in venture funds. The site lists Snoonu (Qatar's first unicorn) and GRO Solutions, an AI-powered fintech, among its direct investments.
- Eligibility: Pre-Seed to Series A across GCC and MENA for direct investments; also invests as LP in early and growth stage VC funds
- Terms: Yes — equity on direct investments
- Amount: $150M fund size (own site)
- Primary source: https://www.growthx-capital.com/ · checked October 2026

### Human Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/human-capital/
- Website: https://human.capital/
- Apply: https://gateway.invest.qa/user/venture-capital-funding
- What you get: Equity investment.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Multi-stage VC that also helps founders recruit and assemble their teams. Doha announced in February 2025 as the first of its international offices under the QIA Fund of Funds; no confirmation found that it has opened. Not to be confused with Human Capital Group WLL, an unrelated Doha recruitment firm. Accepts startup pitches through the VC funding module on the Invest Qatar Gateway — free account required.
- Amount: Not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): QIA Fund of Funds, Sanabil Investments
- Primary source: https://human.capital/ · checked October 2026

### Ion Pacific
- Type: Structured secondaries / special situations (VC fund) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/ion-pacific/
- Website: https://ionpacific.com/
- Apply: https://gateway.invest.qa/user/venture-capital-funding
- What you get: Structured secondaries and special-situations deals.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture capital structured secondaries and special-situations manager, founded 2015, unlocking liquidity for founders, GPs and LPs. QIA Fund of Funds partner. Has a Doha office — its own team page lists investment staff based there; the firm describes itself as having offices across the US, Europe and Asia. Accepts startup pitches through the VC funding module on the Invest Qatar Gateway — Gateway membership required.
- Amount: Assets under management not published · secondaries and special situations
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): QIA Fund of Funds
- Primary source: https://ionpacific.com/ · checked October 2026

### Liberty City Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/liberty-city-ventures/
- Website: https://libertycityventures.com/
- Apply: https://gateway.invest.qa/user/venture-capital-funding
- What you get: Equity investment from seed through Series C and beyond, per QIA.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: NYC venture capital firm. QIA Fund of Funds partner. Accepts startup pitches through the VC funding module on the Invest Qatar Gateway — account required.
- Amount: Seed through Series C+ per QIA
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): QIA Fund of Funds
- Primary source: https://libertycityventures.com/ · checked October 2026

### QSTP Tech Venture Fund
- Type: Venture Fund (co-investment only) (VC fund) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qstp-tech-venture-fund/
- Website: https://qstp.qa/community/tech-venture-fund/
- Apply: https://forms.gle/hyFPg2xsF2cdtrZ56
- What you get: $30M fund; Pre-Seed, Seed and Series A follow-ons; cheque size set case by case.
- Who can apply: Qatar-headquartered startups with measurable social or climate impact and a lead co-investor VC.
- Cost: Equity — co-investment alongside lead VC
- From abroad: A company in Qatar is required — Headquartered in Qatar, with a core part of the operation, leadership team and workforce based locally — source: “Startup must be headquartered in Qatar with a core part of the operation, leadership team, and workforce based locally.” (https://qstp.qa/community/tech-venture-fund/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: $30M deep tech fund of Qatar Science & Technology Park (Qatar Foundation), building on a first fund that deployed $20M+ across more than 150 startups. Invests only alongside a lead or co-investor VC — the fund does not lead rounds.
- Eligibility: Headquartered in Qatar with a core part of the operation, leadership team and workforce based locally · measurable social or climate impact · REQUIRES an active lead or co-investor VC in the same round · apply via QSTP form, no stated deadline
- Terms: Yes — equity co-investment
- Amount: $30M fund · Pre-Seed, Seed and Series A follow-ons · cheque size set case by case from capital needs, lead investor terms and strategic fit
- Primary source: https://qstp.qa/community/tech-venture-fund/ · checked October 2026

### Rasmal Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/rasmal-ventures/
- Website: https://www.rasmalventures.com/en/about
- Apply: https://www.rasmalventures.com/en/contact
- What you get: Equity investment from Pre-Series A to Series B.
- Who can apply: Technology companies at Series A–B, selectively pre-Series A.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Qatar’s first governed investment firm, trusted by sovereign wealth funds including Qatar Investment Authority. Backs technology companies at Series A and B, with selective pre-Series A; six investments live. Founders submit pitch decks on its contact page.
- Amount: Series A and B · selective pre-Series A
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): QIA Fund of Funds
- Primary source: https://www.rasmalventures.com/en/about · checked October 2026

### Speedinvest
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/speedinvest/
- Website: https://www.speedinvest.com/
- Apply: https://gateway.invest.qa/user/venture-capital-funding
- What you get: Inception to Seed €250K–€5M; Series B to Pre-IPO €5M–€30M.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Qatar — source: “Across the Middle East, Africa, and beyond, we partner with bold, mission-driven entrepreneurs transforming how people and businesses access financial services and harness them to solve complex challenges across other vital sectors.” (https://www.speedinvest.com/middle-east-africa-and-beyond)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Vienna-headquartered pan-European VC with sector-specialist teams (400+ investments; 6 offices incl. Abu Dhabi, per site). QIA Fund of Funds partner; dedicated Middle East, Africa & Beyond team. Accepts startup pitches through the VC funding module on the Invest Qatar Gateway — free account required.
- Amount: Pre-Seed to Growth · Inception to Seed €250K–€5M, Series B to Pre-IPO €5M–€30M
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): QIA Fund of Funds
- Primary source: https://www.speedinvest.com/ · checked October 2026

### The Radical Fund
- Type: Venture Capital — climate adaptation and mitigation (VC fund) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/the-radical-fund/
- Website: https://www.theradicalfund.com/
- Apply: https://p0mbp38n126.typeform.com/to/iqA7omhe
- What you get: Early-stage equity cheques.
- Who can apply: Early-stage founders building climate resilience products for Southeast Asian markets.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: Southeast Asia — fund materials name Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia — source: “We are an early-stage VC fund, investing in founders who are delivering climate resilience for Southeast Asia.” (https://www.theradicalfund.com/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Early-stage VC investing in founders delivering climate resilience across Southeast Asia — Vietnam, Indonesia, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Malaysia. Qatar presence documented by Invest Qatar, which lists the fund among the participating funds of the Gateway VC funding module (June 2026); The Utopia Studio in Doha lists it alongside A-typical Ventures among its partners. Direct founders form on the fund site; pitches also accepted through the VC funding module on the Invest Qatar Gateway — free account required.
- Eligibility: Early-stage founders building climate resilience products for Southeast Asian markets · pitch via the founders form on the fund site, or through the Invest Qatar Gateway VC module
- Terms: Yes — early-stage equity
- Amount: Early-stage cheques — ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.theradicalfund.com/ · checked October 2026

### FinTech Development Grant (QFTH)
- Type: Co-funding grant (milestone-linked) (Grant) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/fintech-development-grant-qfth/
- Website: https://fintech.qa/
- Apply: https://forms.qdb.qa/fdg
- What you get: Milestone-linked co-funding of up to QAR 1.5M per company (QDB, Dec 2025).
- Who can apply: FinTech startups in Qatar.
- Cost: No equity — co-funding
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Milestone-linked co-funding from Qatar FinTech Hub, the QDB fintech programme, for FinTech companies working towards regulatory and market readiness. The application form describes it as a grant with a co-funding model; QDB announced in December 2025 that the grant, provided by Qatar Central Bank through QFTH, offers co-funding of up to QAR 1.5 million per company, linked to key milestones. Separate from the QFTH Incubator and Accelerator waves, which are an investment rather than a grant.
- Eligibility: FinTech startups in Qatar
- Terms: No equity — co-funding, not an investment
- Amount: Co-funding of up to QAR 1.5 million per company, linked to milestones (QDB, December 2025)
- Primary source: https://fintech.qa/ · checked October 2026

### Innovation Coupon (Qatar Foundation RDI)
- Type: Grant — three-tier innovation coupon (Grant) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/innovation-coupon-qatar-foundation-rdi/
- Website: https://www.qf.org.qa/innovation-coupon
- What you get: Grants of up to QAR 50,000, 100,000 or 200,000 in three tiers.
- Who can apply: Qatar-based startups and SMEs (20% Qatari-owned) and Qatari or resident individuals.
- Cost: Grant — startups/SMEs: 25% matching at Tier 2, 50% at Tier 3
- Status: Active
- Summary: Grant from Qatar Foundation's Research, Development and Innovation (RDI) division that helps individuals and start-ups formulate their ideas, in three time-limited tiers that take an idea step by step to market. Tier 1, Developing Proof-of-Concept, is for individual applicants with an idea (up to QAR 50,000); Tier 2, Idea Design and Development, is for individuals, startups and SMEs exploring their business plan and value proposition (up to QAR 100,000; startups and SMEs need 25 percent matching funds); Tier 3, Path to Market, is for applicants with a demo product (up to QAR 200,000; startups and SMEs need 50 percent matching funds).
- Eligibility: Startups and SMEs: registered and based in Qatar, at least 20 percent owned by a Qatari individual or entity, no more than 100 staff, not 50 percent or more owned by large companies or government entities, not listed on the QSE · individuals: Qatari nationals or residents of Qatar · not enrolled in another Qatar Foundation fund or grant agreement · not representing a government authority, entity or institute
- Amount: Up to QAR 50,000 (Tier 1) · up to QAR 100,000 (Tier 2) · up to QAR 200,000 (Tier 3)
- Primary source: https://www.qf.org.qa/innovation-coupon · checked October 2026

### Qatar–Spain Innovation Program (QASIP)
- Type: Non-dilutive bilateral R&D co-funding grant (Grant) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qatar-spain-innovation-program-qasip/
- Website: https://innolight.qrdi.org.qa/en/opportunities/p/30
- What you get: Co-funding up to QAR 1.5M for 1–3 year bilateral Qatar–Spain R&D projects.
- Who can apply: One company registered in Qatar paired with one registered in Spain.
- Cost: No equity — grant
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Joint call by the QRDI Council and Spain's CDTI for innovation projects between a company registered in Qatar and a company registered in Spain. The Qatari awardee receives a non-dilutive co-funding grant from QRDI, the Spanish partner is funded by CDTI; RDI work must take place in both countries. Innolight lists QAR 1.5M funding, projects of one to three years and three cycles so far; the 2025 call ran 25 February to 3 July 2025 with awards estimated for February 2026 (checked September 2026).
- Eligibility: At least one company registered in Qatar and one registered in Spain, independent of each other, each with the technical and financial capacity for the project; partner search and application via Innolight registration
- Terms: No equity taken
- Amount: QAR 1.5M · 1–3 year projects · co-funding, support level per Annex 5
- Primary source: https://innolight.qrdi.org.qa/en/opportunities/p/30 · checked October 2026

### QRDI Qatar Open Innovation (QOI)
- Type: Non-dilutive challenge grant (pilot funding) (Grant) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qrdi-qatar-open-innovation-qoi/
- Website: https://innolight.qrdi.org.qa/en/opportunities/p?funding-types=all&tab=business-innovation
- Apply: https://qoi.qrdi.org.qa/web/en/challenges
- What you get: Mostly QAR 365K per challenge (some QAR 474K) for a one-year pilot.
- Who can apply: Startups, SMEs and corporates with a commercial registration.
- Cost: Funding per challenge — equity terms not published
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Challenge-based pilot funding run by the QRDI Council on its Innolight platform with government and corporate challenge owners (e.g. the Ministry of Environment and Climate Change, KAHRAMAA). Each challenge invites startups, SMEs and corporates to propose a technology for a stated problem; awardees run a funded proof of concept or pilot with a path to scale-up, joint development, supplier agreement or licensing. Innolight lists 86 challenges, mostly QAR 365K each (seven at QAR 474K) over one year; all are marked Closed (checked October 2026). The latest wave closed in April 2026 with awards announced in August 2026.
- Eligibility: Start-ups, SMEs and corporates with a commercial registration; more than one proposal per organisation allowed; employees of QRDI and the challenge owner excluded (challenge page)
- Amount: QAR 365K per challenge (some QAR 474K) · 1 year
- Primary source: https://innolight.qrdi.org.qa/en/opportunities/p?funding-types=all&tab=business-innovation · checked October 2026

### QRDI SBIG
- Type: Non-dilutive grant (Grant) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qrdi-sbig/
- Website: https://innolight.qrdi.org.qa/en/opportunities/p/101
- What you get: Grants up to QAR 3M over 3 years, or phased QAR 800K–2.2M funding.
- Who can apply: Qatar-based holding firms majority-owned by citizens/residents; <250 staff, <QAR 100M revenue.
- Cost: No equity — grant
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Non-dilutive R&D grant for SMEs in Qatar, run on QRDI's Innolight portal — QAR 3M funding over 3 years, one cycle (Innolight). The RFA splits it into Phase I up to QAR 800K (6–12 months) and Phase II up to QAR 2.2M (12–24 months). Note: QAR 10M is the separate TDG (Technology Development Grant).
- Eligibility: Holding company based in Qatar with majority ownership by Qatari citizens or residents · fewer than 250 employees · annual revenue below QAR 100M (Innolight)
- Terms: No equity taken
- Amount: QAR 3M over 3 years (Innolight) · Phase I up to QAR 800K · Phase II up to QAR 2.2M (RFA)
- Primary source: https://innolight.qrdi.org.qa/en/opportunities/p/101 · checked October 2026

### QRDI Technology Development Grant (TDG)
- Type: Non-dilutive R&D co-funding grant (Grant) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qrdi-technology-development-grant-tdg/
- Website: https://innolight.qrdi.org.qa/en/opportunities/p/54
- What you get: Co-funding up to QAR 10M per project; the company also carries a funding share.
- Who can apply: Companies incorporated in Qatar, including SMEs, startups and multinationals.
- Cost: No equity — co-funding, not an investment
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Non-dilutive R&D instrument run by the Qatar Research, Development and Innovation Council. Co-funds a company's own R&D project towards a new product, process or service over up to three years. Cycle 3 ran from 15 January to 20 September 2025 (Innolight: three cycles so far, currently closed). Co-funds manpower, capex and operating expenses; the support level depends on company type (SME, LLE, MNC).
- Eligibility: Any company incorporated in Qatar — SMEs, startups, large local enterprises and multinationals. Companies based outside Qatar may apply undertaking to register a Qatari company to carry out the project if awarded. Six-step process starting with an expression of interest
- Terms: No equity — co-funding, not an investment
- Amount: Up to QAR 10M per project · co-funding, the company carries a share itself
- Primary source: https://innolight.qrdi.org.qa/en/opportunities/p/54 · checked October 2026

### ROWAD Awards
- Type: Business awards (Grant) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/rowad-awards/
- Website: https://www.qdb.qa/events-and-trainings/awards/rowad-qatar
- What you get: Business award incentives.
- Who can apply: Qatari-majority-owned businesses with 500 or fewer employees.
- Cost: No equity — grant
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Qatar Development Bank awards recognising Qatari entrepreneurs and their businesses. Do not confuse with the Rowad Entrepreneurship Conference, which last ran in November 2025 (11th edition) — the Awards' last confirmed edition was the fourth, in 2023.
- Eligibility: Majority ownership must be held by Qatari nationals (not Qatari-only) · workforce of 500 employees or fewer, at most 15% on temporary contracts · holding companies and foreign companies with branches in Qatar cannot apply · one standard application form, no category choice
- Amount: Incentives not published on the awards page
- Primary source: https://www.qdb.qa/events-and-trainings/awards/rowad-qatar · checked October 2026

### Stars of Science (Qatar Foundation)
- Type: Prize competition (TV programme) (Grant) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/stars-of-science-qatar-foundation/
- Website: https://www.starsofscience.com/
- What you get: Qatar Foundation TV innovation competition; its FAQ lists a $300,000 first prize.
- Who can apply: Arab nationals or of Arab origin who speak Arabic, aged 18–35.
- Cost: Prize money
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Pan-Arab edutainment TV programme by Qatar Foundation, established in 2009, for aspiring science and technology entrepreneurs. Its FAQ lists $400,000 in prizes — $300,000 first prize, $100,000 second prize — without naming a season. The Season 18 call (applications closed 10 July 2026) says winners get access to equity investment and fast-tracked entry into QSTP's 12-month incubation program and must be able to relocate to Doha; candidates selected to pitch to the jury have travel and accommodation covered.
- Eligibility: Arab nationals or applicants of Arab origin who speak Arabic, aged 18–35 · Season 18 winners must be able to relocate to Doha
- Amount: $300,000 first prize · $100,000 second prize (FAQ, season not stated)
- Primary source: https://www.starsofscience.com/ · checked October 2026

### WISE Prize for Education
- Type: Competition prize + accelerator (Grant) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/wise-prize-for-education/
- Website: https://www.wise-qatar.org/
- What you get: Share of a $1M prize pool; finalists get $100,000–125,000 each to build an MVP in 12 months.
- Who can apply: Applicants with a demonstrated track record on the challenge they address.
- Cost: No equity — grant
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Qatar Foundation's global education innovation prize. A $1M prize pool is split across the top three winners at WISE 13; each finalist receives $100,000–125,000 to build a minimum viable product over 12 months. In the 2024–2025 cycle first place received $500,000.
- Eligibility: Applicants with a demonstrated track record that supports their ability to address the challenge
- Terms: No
- Amount: $1M prize pool for the top three · $100,000–125,000 per finalist over twelve months
- Primary source: https://www.wise-qatar.org/ · checked October 2026

### Invest Qatar
- Type: Investment Promotion Agency (Government) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/invest-qatar/
- Website: https://www.invest.qa/
- Apply: https://gateway.invest.qa/user/venture-capital-funding
- What you get: FDI facilitation, stakeholder introductions and direct pitching to VC funds via Gateway.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Investment Promotion Agency Qatar. Information requests, stakeholder introductions, partner search and business-setup support for international investors and corporates. Runs the Invest Qatar Gateway, its investor platform; since 23 June 2026 the Gateway hosts a VC funding module, developed with QIA, where startups review the participating VC funds (15 at launch) and pitch fund managers directly — Gateway membership required.
- Amount: FDI facilitation · Stakeholder introductions · Gateway VC module: pitch participating funds directly
- Primary source: https://www.invest.qa/ · checked October 2026

### Media City Qatar
- Type: Media hub (regulator, developer and investor) (Government) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/media-city-qatar/
- Website: https://mediacity.qa/en/
- Apply: https://mediacity.qa/en/gaming-incentive-application/
- What you get: Gaming and screen incentive programmes; licensing with 100% foreign ownership.
- Who can apply: Entities licensed by Media City Qatar; the screen incentive is for Qatari entities only.
- Cost: No equity — incentives for licensed entities
- From abroad: A company in Qatar is required — Entity must hold a Media City Qatar licence; the licence itself allows 100% foreign ownership; The Qatar Screen Incentive is limited to Qatari entities (including SPVs) licensed by Media City Qatar — source: “The incentive program is applicable only to entities licensed by Media City Qatar.” (https://mediacity.qa/en/gaming-incentive-application/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Doha media hub established by Decree No. (13) on 30 May 2019 as cluster regulator, developer and investor, located in Msheireb Downtown Doha. It licenses media companies, digital startups and content creators with 100% foreign ownership through a digital one-stop platform, and lists incubation programmes and business acceleration initiatives among its services. Two incentive programmes take online applications: a Gaming incentive for entities licensed by Media City Qatar, and the Qatar Screen Incentive - a rebate on qualifying spend, run with the Film Committee - for Qatari entities (including SPVs) licensed by it. Applying does not guarantee approval.
- Eligibility: Entities licensed by Media City Qatar (Gaming incentive) · Qatari entities, including SPVs, licensed by Media City Qatar (Screen incentive)
- Terms: No
- Amount: Incentive programmes for licensed entities - rates not published on the application pages
- Primary source: https://mediacity.qa/en/ · checked October 2026

### Qatar Development Bank
- Type: Development Bank (Government) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qatar-development-bank/
- Website: https://www.qdb.qa/
- Apply: https://www.qdb.qa/en/data/ossform
- What you get: Backing via Startup Qatar, targeting a QAR 1 billion portfolio by 2030.
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: The primary funding and development institution for startups in Qatar. Runs the Startup Qatar Investment Program (START and GROW), Ithmar, the ROWAD Awards and QBIC. Its Startup Qatar Investment Program (2024) has backed 40+ startups from 15 countries — most recently joining Multiverse Computing’s €500M Series C (€1.5B valuation), bringing the AI unicorn’s regional HQ to Doha (Aug 2026); target portfolio QAR 1B by 2030.
- Amount: More than 40 startups from 15 countries backed via Startup Qatar since 2024 · target portfolio QAR 1 billion by 2030
- Primary source: https://www.qdb.qa/ · checked October 2026

### Qatar Financial Centre (QFC)
- Type: Onshore business hub / own jurisdiction (Government) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qatar-financial-centre-qfc/
- Website: https://www.qfc.qa/
- Apply: https://eservices.qfc.qa/register/
- What you get: Business licensing; its Feb 2026 package waives registration and renewal fees for three years.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Qatar — source: “companies from across the globe have chosen QFC as their preferred platform to establish their presence in the Middle East and drive global impact.” (https://www.qfc.qa/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Onshore business and financial centre with its own common-law jurisdiction. 100% foreign ownership, profits fully repatriable.
- Amount: Licensing platform · incentives package introduced at Web Summit Qatar, February 2026: registration and annual renewal fees waived for the first three years (QFC press release)
- Primary source: https://www.qfc.qa/ · checked October 2026

### Qatar Free Zones Authority (QFZ)
- Type: Free Zone Authority (Government) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qatar-free-zones-authority-qfz/
- Website: https://qfz.gov.qa/
- Apply: https://investors.qfz.qa/anonymous/registration/
- What you get: Free zone investment incentives and benefits.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Strategic free zones for tech and industrial companies.
- Amount: Investment incentives + free zone benefits
- Primary source: https://qfz.gov.qa/ · checked October 2026

### QCB FinTech Regulatory Sandbox
- Type: Regulatory Sandbox (Government) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qcb-fintech-regulatory-sandbox/
- Website: https://www.qcb.gov.qa/en/Pages/FinancialTechnology.aspx
- Apply: https://sandbox.qcb.gov.qa/LSMSAppPortal/
- What you get: Live testing of fintech under QCB supervision for up to 12 months; Express 3–6 months.
- Who can apply: Fintech start-ups and firms with an MVP whose activity QCB regulates or may regulate.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — To operate in Qatar after the test, a QCB licence within three months — source: “Graduated successfully from a Regulatory Sandbox in another jurisdiction. Licensed in a different jurisdiction.” (https://www.qcb.gov.qa/Documents/SandBox_FAQ_Eng_Final%20_NS%20(002).pdf)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Qatar Central Bank framework for live testing of innovative financial technology in a controlled environment, for up to 12 months; an Express Sandbox offers an expedited 3–6-month test for solutions that show readiness. Applications are accepted year-round through QCB’s sandbox portal, with no administrative charges. Successful participants that want to operate in Qatar must obtain a QCB licence within three months.
- Eligibility: Financial institutions, start-ups and technology companies whose activity is or may be regulated by QCB, with an MVP ready for testing · Express Sandbox: licensed in Qatar, applying jointly with a QCB-licensed entity, graduated from another jurisdiction’s sandbox, or licensed elsewhere
- Terms: No equity — regulatory permission to test, no administrative charges
- Amount: Regulatory permission to test
- Primary source: https://www.qcb.gov.qa/Documents/SandBox_FAQ_Eng_Final%20_NS%20(002).pdf · checked October 2026

### QFC Digital Assets Lab
- Type: Regulator innovation programme (QFC Authority) (Government) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qfc-digital-assets-lab/
- Website: https://www.qfc.qa/en/digital-assets-lab
- Apply: https://form.jotform.com/232970524087056
- What you get: Regulatory pathway to QFC licences; no funding stated.
- Who can apply: Local and international firms working on blockchain, tokenisation and digital assets.
- Cost: No equity — regulatory pathway
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Qatar — source: “a virtual environment where forward-thinking local and international firms come together to explore blockchain, tokenisation and digital asset innovation” (https://www.qfc.qa/en/digital-assets-lab)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Qatar Financial Centre Authority programme for blockchain, tokenisation and digital-asset firms. QFC describes it as a virtual environment for research, development and real-world experimentation across digital assets and Distributed Ledger Technology, and as a guided pathway towards the appropriate licences. Backed by the QFC Digital Assets Framework 2024.
- Eligibility: Local and international firms working on blockchain, tokenisation and digital assets
- Terms: No equity
- Amount: No funding stated — a regulatory pathway to QFC licences
- Primary source: https://www.qfc.qa/en/digital-assets-lab · checked October 2026

### Startup Qatar
- Type: Startup Platform · QDB-Powered Investment Program (Government) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/startup-qatar/
- Website: https://startupqatar.qa/en
- Apply: https://www.f6s.com/sqinvestmentprogram
- What you get: Invest Qatar platform routing founders to the QDB-powered Investment Program.
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Establish or expand operations in Qatar — source: “START: Startups launching in Qatar: This category targets entrepreneurs with a Proof of Concept (PoC) or Minimum Viable Product (MVP) who seek funding to establish operations in Qatar” (https://startupqatar.qa/en/investment-program)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Platform for startups in Qatar. Initiative by Invest Qatar, launched at Web Summit Qatar 2024. Aggregates funding, incubation, visas, fee waivers and office space across QFC, QDB, QFZ, QSTP and others.
- Amount: Platform — the investment itself runs through the Startup Qatar Investment Program (own card)
- Primary source: https://startupqatar.qa/en · checked October 2026

### Doha Tech Angels
- Type: Angel Network (Angel network) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/doha-tech-angels/
- Website: https://dta.qa/
- Apply: https://dta.qa/apply/
- What you get: Angel investment, seed to Series A.
- Who can apply: Tech startups with a product in the market, traction and an initial round already raised.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Qatar's first and most active private investment club. Its About page names seed to Series A startups with customer traction; the application form asks for a product in the market, commercial traction and an initial funding round already raised. Note: the frequently repeated claim that DTA is QFC-registered is not supported by any public source.
- Eligibility: Technology or technology-enabled startup · fully developed product in the market · commercial traction in revenue or users · more than one full-time team member · an initial funding round already raised
- Amount: Angel rounds — seed to Series A per its own site
- Primary source: https://dta.qa/ · checked October 2026

### Finjan Investments
- Type: Angel investor network (Angel network) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/finjan-investments/
- Website: https://finjan.vc/
- Apply: https://finjan.vc/apply
- What you get: Qatar angel network backing high-scale startups across MENA.
- Who can apply: MENA startups; pitch deck through the online form.
- Cost: Equity — angel stake
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026) — source: “Country or Region * Select Country” (https://finjan.vc/apply)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Qatar's angel investors network, based in Doha (Manarat Lusail), backing high-scale startups across MENA. Portfolio includes SkipCash, PayLater, Madak, UniPal and Malaa; startups submit their pitch through an online form.
- Primary source: https://finjan.vc/ · checked October 2026

### MBK Holding (M³ Ventures)
- Type: Holding company — investment arm M³ Ventures (Corporate VC) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/mbk-holding-m-ventures/
- Website: https://mbkholding.qa/
- What you get: Doha holding investing in operating and growth-stage tech companies via M³ Ventures.
- Who can apply: Growth-stage tech companies (portfolio: Snoonu, Cwallet, Qewam).
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Doha holding company whose investment arm M³ Ventures holds a concentrated portfolio of operating companies; the holding also spans growth-stage portfolio companies such as Snoonu, Cwallet and Qewam. It describes itself as a partner to entrepreneurs rather than a typical venture capitalist.
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://mbkholding.qa/ · checked October 2026

### QIC Digital Venture Partners
- Type: Corporate VC (Corporate VC) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qic-digital-venture-partners/
- Website: https://qic-digitalventures.com/
- Apply: https://qic-digitalventures.com/#contactus
- What you get: Equity tickets of USD 100–500K; 5 to 10 investments a year.
- Who can apply: Pre-Series A insurtech and insurance-adjacent startups across MENA (Morocco to Oman).
- Cost: Equity — 5 to 15% ownership target
- From abroad: Within the region: MENA from Morocco to Oman; occasionally Africa, Europe, US and Asia when it fits the strategy — source: “We cover MENA from Morocco to Oman, but are open occasionally to Africa, Europe, US and Asia, when it fits our strategy.” (https://qic-digitalventures.com/cvc/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Corporate venture arm of Qatar Insurance Group (QIC), Doha — invests in early-stage insurtech and insurance-adjacent startups (health, mobility, finance, cyber, embedded) across MENA from Morocco to Oman, occasionally beyond. 5 to 10 investments a year at USD 100–500K, targeting 5–15% ownership and co-investing with the MENA VC network; also an LP in selected insurtech funds.
- Eligibility: Pre-Series A insurtech and insurance-adjacent startups (post-Series A case by case) — MENA from Morocco to Oman
- Terms: Yes — 5 to 15% ownership target
- Amount: USD 100–500K per ticket · 5 to 10 investments a year
- Primary source: https://qic-digitalventures.com/cvc/ · checked October 2026

### QDB Istithmar - SME Equity
- Type: Direct equity investment (QDB Investment) (State equity) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qdb-istithmar-sme-equity/
- Website: https://www.qdb.qa/en/financing-and-funding/equity-and-investment
- Apply: https://www.qdb.qa/en/data/ossform
- What you get: Tickets QAR 1.5–7M for small enterprises, QAR 3.5–18M for medium enterprises; equity under 50%.
- Who can apply: Qatari-owned operational companies with active Qatari management, under 250 staff, revenue under QAR 100M.
- Cost: Equity — QDB takes under 50% stake
- From abroad: Nationals or residents of Qatar — Qatari-owned operational company with active Qatari involvement in management — source: “Qatari-owned operational company; Active Qatari involvement in management” (https://www.qdb.qa/en/financing-and-funding/equity-and-investment)
- Status: Active
- Summary: The direct equity programme of Qatar Development Bank for innovative small and growing medium enterprises in Qatar - separate from Ithmar, which is the seed tier. QDB publishes no dedicated product page: the terms sit in the FAQ of its Investment page, and QDB's application form lists it as SME Equity.
- Eligibility: Qatari-owned operational company with active Qatari involvement in management - under 250 employees - revenue under QAR 100M - assets under QAR 50M - innovative small enterprises under 3 years of operations, growing medium enterprises at least 3 years of financial statements
- Terms: Yes - less than 50% stake
- Amount: Fund size QAR 365M - tickets QAR 1.5-7M for innovative small enterprises and QAR 3.5-18M for growing medium enterprises - less than 50% stake - 8-10 year horizon (5 years deployment, 3-5 years holding)
- For your investors: Through its Co-Investment Program QDB co-invests up to QAR 11 million per deal alongside a certified investor; its Partial Guarantee Program covers up to QAR 1.825 million (USD 500,000) per investment round for accredited individual investors, investor groups and investment clubs registered in Qatar. The investor applies, not the startup.
- Primary source: https://www.qdb.qa/en/financing-and-funding/equity-and-investment · checked October 2026

### QDB Ithmar
- Type: Islamic equity programme (convertible Musharaka) (State equity) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qdb-ithmar/
- Website: https://www.qdb.qa/en/financing-and-funding/equity-and-investment/capital-seed-funding-program
- Apply: https://www.qdb.qa/en/data/ossform
- What you get: Seed equity via convertible Musharaka, up to QAR 1.825M per startup; founder adds at least 10%.
- Who can apply: Qatari-based companies or teams with active Qatari involvement; founders over the age of 18.
- Cost: Convertible — Musharaka converts into shares
- From abroad: Nationals or residents of Qatar — Qatari-based companies, Qatari individuals and teams with active Qatari involvement — source: “Ithmar supports Qatari-based companies, Qatari individuals, teams with active Qatari involvement, and founders, who should be over the age of 18” (https://www.qdb.qa/en/financing-and-funding/equity-and-investment/capital-seed-funding-program)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Shari’a-compliant seed equity programme of Qatar Development Bank. QDB funds up to 90% of the funding round, up to QAR 1.825 million per startup; the entrepreneur contributes a minimum of 10% of the total investment capital, through a convertible Musharaka agreement that can later convert into shares.
- Eligibility: Qatari-based companies, Qatari individuals, or teams with active Qatari involvement · founders must be over the age of 18
- Terms: Yes — convertible Musharaka, convertible into shares
- Amount: Seed equity via convertible Musharaka · up to QAR 1.825M per startup (QDB funds up to 90% of the round) · minimum 10% founder contribution
- Primary source: https://www.qdb.qa/en/financing-and-funding/equity-and-investment/capital-seed-funding-program · checked October 2026

### QDB Pre-seed Investment
- Type: Pre-seed convertible investment (QDB) (State equity) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qdb-pre-seed-investment/
- Website: https://www.qdb.qa/financing-and-funding/equity-and-investment/pre-seed-funding
- What you get: Up to QAR 250K (100K cash, 150K in kind); QDB announced QAR 730K per company in Dec 2025.
- Who can apply: QDB portfolio companies, entrepreneurs and graduates of QDB incubation programmes.
- Cost: Convertible — converts at a QAR 2.5–3.57M cap
- Status: Active
- Summary: Convertible pre-seed investment of Qatar Development Bank for companies in its incubation and acceleration portfolio, other early-stage companies, and graduates of its incubation and acceleration programmes — entrepreneurs past the ideation stage whose business is Shariah-compliant. The product page sets the limit at QAR 250,000 (up to QAR 100K in cash and up to QAR 150K in kind), converting into shares at a valuation cap of QAR 2.5–3.57 million; in December 2025 QDB announced an updated model raising direct investment to QAR 730,000 (USD 200,000) per company for early-stage companies and graduates of QFTH programmes.
- Eligibility: Early-stage companies in QDB’s portfolio, entrepreneurs starting or expanding a venture, and graduates of QDB’s incubation and acceleration programmes; the business must be Shariah-compliant
- Terms: Convertible note — converts into shares at a valuation cap of QAR 2.5–3.57M
- Amount: Up to QAR 250,000 per the product page (QAR 100K cash + QAR 150K in kind) · QDB announced QAR 730,000 (USD 200,000) per company under an updated model in December 2025
- Primary source: https://www.qdb.qa/financing-and-funding/equity-and-investment/pre-seed-funding · checked October 2026

### Startup Qatar Investment Program
- Type: Equity and investment programme (QDB) (State equity) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/startup-qatar-investment-program/
- Website: https://www.qdb.qa/Financing-And-Funding/Equity-And-Investment/Startup-Qatar-Investment-Program
- Apply: https://www.f6s.com/sqinvestmentprogram
- What you get: START up to $1.1M, GROW up to $5.5M, released in tranches against milestones.
- Who can apply: START: startups launching in Qatar; GROW: startups 3+ years old expanding to Qatar.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Must establish or expand operations in Qatar — source: “The Startup Qatar Investment Program, powered by QDB, aims to attract tech startups to establish or expand operations in Qatar.” (https://www.qdb.qa/Financing-And-Funding/Equity-And-Investment/Startup-Qatar-Investment-Program)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: The startup investment programme of Startup Qatar, the Invest Qatar initiative, powered by Qatar Development Bank. Two tiers: START, up to $1.1M for startups launching in Qatar; GROW, up to $5.5M for established startups expanding to Qatar with at least three years of operations. qdb.qa and startupqatar.qa show the same pair (re-checked October 2026). Funding is released in tranches against mutually agreed milestones, not in one payment.
- Eligibility: START: startups launching in Qatar · validated concept addressing an unmet market need, with a clear objective and execution plan backed by a detailed technology roadmap · market readiness supported by research, a sound business model and a monetisation strategy. GROW: established operations for at least three years under a qualified management team, with a positive growth outlook and financial stability. Apply via the F6S form linked from the QDB page, no stated deadline
- Terms: Equity — QDB invested through this programme in the €500M Series C of Multiverse Computing (QDB newsroom and QNA, 5 Aug 2026). The stake taken and the standard terms are not published
- Amount: START up to $1.1M · GROW up to $5.5M — identical on qdb.qa and startupqatar.qa (re-checked September 2026). Released in tranches against mutually agreed milestones
- Primary source: https://www.qdb.qa/Financing-And-Funding/Equity-And-Investment/Startup-Qatar-Investment-Program · checked October 2026

### QDB Credit Guarantee Program (formerly Al-Dhameen)
- Type: Loan guarantee via partner financial institutions (Loan) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qdb-credit-guarantee-program-formerly-al-dhameen/
- Website: https://www.qdb.qa/financing-and-funding/credit-guarantees
- Apply: https://www.nfg.qa/
- What you get: QDB partial guarantee on bank financing, typically up to 50% (70% for small tickets).
- Who can apply: Qatar-based companies with a commercial licence, startups included.
- Cost: No equity — loan guarantee
- From abroad: A company in Qatar is required — Qatari-registered or Qatar-based company — source: “The application must be submitted under a Qatari-registered or Qatar-based company.” (https://www.qdb.qa/financing-and-funding/credit-guarantees)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Qatar Development Bank programme, formerly Al-Dhameen, under which partner financial institutions extend financing backed by a partial QDB guarantee — typically up to 50% of the financed amount and up to 70% for low-ticket financing. Startups can use it if they meet the eligibility requirements and their projects are financially and technically viable; it covers opex and capex financing.
- Eligibility: Qatar-based private-sector companies with a valid commercial licence; startups if financially and technically viable
- Terms: No equity — loan guarantee
- Amount: Guarantee typically up to 50% of the financed amount · up to 70% for low-ticket financing
- Primary source: https://www.qdb.qa/financing-and-funding/credit-guarantees · checked October 2026

### QDB Direct Financing (Initial Working Capital)
- Type: Direct Shariah-compliant loans (Loan) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qdb-direct-financing-initial-working-capital/
- Website: https://www.qdb.qa/en/financing-and-funding/direct-financing
- Apply: https://www.qdb.qa/en/data/ossform
- What you get: QDB direct Shariah-compliant loans, incl. working capital for the start-up phase.
- Who can apply: Qatari-owned companies in manufacturing, education, health, services or agriculture.
- Cost: Loan — profit rate up to 5%
- From abroad: Nationals or residents of Qatar — Ownership of a Qatari citizen — source: “Submit the application under the ownership of a Qatari citizen (Qatari Identity Card).” (https://www.qdb.qa/en/financing-and-funding/direct-financing)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Qatar Development Bank's direct, Shariah-compliant financing for new business ideas and existing companies in manufacturing, education, healthcare, services, agriculture, livestock and fisheries. Its Initial Working Capital product finances SMEs in the start-up phase — up to six months of OPEX, at a profit rate of up to 5% and a total tenor of up to 15 years.
- Eligibility: Company owned by a Qatari citizen, in a QDB-supported sector
- Terms: Loan — profit rate up to 5%, tenor up to 15 years
- Amount: Initial Working Capital: up to 6 months of OPEX
- Primary source: https://www.qdb.qa/en/financing-and-funding/direct-financing · checked October 2026

### QIA Fund of Funds
- Type: Fund of Funds (Fund of funds) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/qia-fund-of-funds/
- Website: https://www.qia.qa/
- What you get: Commits capital to VC funds; founders reach it through the funds it backs.
- Who can apply: VC fund managers with a track record and a Qatar-based senior team.
- Cost: Indirect — invests in funds, not startups
- Status: Active
- Summary: Qatar Investment Authority's Fund of Funds — announced 26 February 2024; a USD 3 billion programme investing in international and regional venture capital funds with priority on tech and healthcare (site). Anchors global VC firms to set up in Doha.
- Eligibility: Fund managers with a track record (average IRR above 10%, minimum 1.6x), a team of at least three with 10+ years, a VC or equity focus, an office in Qatar with a senior team member and a commitment to the Qatari ecosystem — applications accepted on an ongoing basis
- Terms: Via VC firms
- Amount: USD 3 billion programme (site)
- Primary source: https://www.qia.qa/ · checked October 2026

### 360 Nautica
- Type: Venture builder (Support) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/360-nautica/
- Website: https://www.360-nautica.com/
- What you get: Venture-building support.
- Status: Dormant
- Summary: Doha venture builder and ecosystem enabler, not a classic cheque-writing investor as previously listed. Portfolio spans gaming (360 Play), healthcare (At-Home-Doc), sports data (Sports Monks), e-commerce (Coutloot) and ticketing (Q-Tickets). DORMANT: its sitemap has not been regenerated since September 2021 and the most recent content found is dated December 2024; nothing for 2025 or 2026.
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://www.360-nautica.com/ · checked October 2026

### Falak Platform
- Type: Ecosystem Platform (Support) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/falak-platform/
- Website: https://falak.qa/
- What you get: Directory, events and news; paid day pass QAR 40 and consultations QAR 1,000.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Entrepreneurship platform for Qatar, operated by Innovation Cafe (Rafal Tower, Lusail). Startup directory, events, newsroom and knowledge hub.
- Amount: Paid services include the Innovation Streams day pass (QAR 40) and expert consultations (QAR 1,000 each)
- Primary source: https://falak.qa/ · checked October 2026

### Startup Qatar AI Compute Credits
- Type: Compute / Infrastructure Incentive (Support) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/startup-qatar-ai-compute-credits/
- Website: https://startupqatar.qa/en/ai-credits
- Apply: https://www.f6s.com/ai-compute-for-startups/apply
- What you get: Capped in-kind AI compute credits.
- Who can apply: Registered startups using AI/ML with current or planned operations in Qatar and a GPU need.
- Cost: No equity — in-kind support
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Planning to relocate or expand to Qatar in the near term; Founders or core tech team currently or planned to be based in Qatar — source: “The initiative supports Qatar-based startups, and those planning to relocate/ expand to Qatar in the near-term, to grow globally from a competitive digital and AI ecosystem by lowering infrastructure barriers for founders and encouraging advanced technology development within the country.” (https://startupqatar.qa/en/ai-credits)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Initiative of Startup Qatar, run by Invest Qatar: subsidised access to cloud compute platforms (GPU / AI-optimised environments) in the form of capped compute credits. Open to Qatar-based startups and to those planning to relocate or expand to Qatar in the near term.
- Eligibility: Registered startup or incorporated company with current or planned development operations in Qatar · demonstrable use of AI, machine learning or data-driven innovation · founders or core tech team based or planned to be based in Qatar · justified need for GPU compute · able to comply with Qatar data protection and cybersecurity rules · preference for a working prototype, MVP or early traction
- Terms: No — in-kind support
- Amount: Capped compute credits (in-kind) · value not published
- Primary source: https://startupqatar.qa/en/ai-credits · checked October 2026

### TASMU Digital Valley
- Type: Innovation platform (historic) (Support) · Country: Qatar
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/tasmu-digital-valley/
- Website: https://tdv.motc.gov.qa/
- What you get: Innovation platform.
- Status: Dormant
- Summary: Open innovation cluster launched under the Ministry of Transport and Communications. DORMANT: that ministry no longer exists (now MCIT), the TDV site shows nothing dated after 2019, and no activity under this brand has been found for 2020 to 2026. The live successor in this space is the TASMU Accelerator under MCIT — see that node.
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://tdv.motc.gov.qa/ · checked October 2026

## Kuwait — 29 programmes

### Coded Academy
- Type: Talent academy (Accelerator) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/coded-academy/
- Website: https://coded.kw/
- Apply: https://coded.kw/bootcamps
- What you get: Bootcamp tuition; pay in full or in 4 or 12 zero-interest instalments.
- Who can apply: Professionals switching careers or upskilling; no prior experience needed.
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Kuwait tech academy, established 2015, running hands-on evening bootcamps in AI, cybersecurity and data science for professionals who want to change direction or upgrade their skills.
- Eligibility: Professionals who want to change direction or upgrade their skills; no prior experience required
- Amount: Bootcamp tuition — full payment or 4 or 12 instalments, zero fees and zero interest
- Primary source: https://coded.kw/ · checked October 2026

### Kuwait Digital Startup Campus (KDSC)
- Type: Pre-accelerator + accelerator + investor programme (Accelerator) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/kuwait-digital-startup-campus-kdsc/
- Website: https://kdsc.ventures/
- What you get: Free accelerator programme with mentoring and a Demo Day.
- Who can apply: Kuwaiti founders aged 18–35 at Seed to Series A stage; investors in Kuwaiti startups.
- Cost: Free to participate; equity terms not published
- Status: Active
- Summary: Joint project of the Kuwait Youth Public Authority (YPA) and the Boeing Company to drive innovation in Kuwait — a Pre-Accelerator, an Accelerator Programme (first cohort 2026, Demo Day 13 December 2026) for Kuwaiti founders scaling and raising investment, and an Investor Programme with GITEX tickets.
- Eligibility: Accelerator: Kuwaiti nationals aged 18–35 with tech-enabled startups at Seed to Series A stage; Investor Programme: anyone looking to invest in tech-enabled businesses in Kuwait
- Terms: Not published (participation free of charge)
- Amount: Programme support + investor access · free of charge
- Primary source: https://kdsc.ventures/ · checked October 2026

### Zain Great Idea (ZGI)
- Type: Corporate accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/zain-great-idea-zgi/
- Website: https://zaingreatidea.com/
- Apply: https://zaingreatidea.com/registration
- What you get: Accelerator programme support plus pitch access to Zain Ventures.
- Who can apply: Tech entrepreneurs resident in Kuwait, KSA, UAE, Jordan, Bahrain or Iraq.
- From abroad: Within the region: region ("across the region"); the live registration form's Country of Residence field lists Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, UAE, Iraq and Jordan — source: “For 15 years, Zain Great Idea has been backing passionate Kuwaiti founders with bold ideas. Now open to entrepreneurs from across the region” (https://zaingreatidea.com/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Zain Group's accelerator. 7,000+ entrepreneurs have taken part. Silicon Valley acceleration.
- Eligibility: Tech entrepreneurs resident in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, the UAE, Iraq or Jordan (country list on the registration form)
- Amount: Programme support · Pitch access to Zain Ventures
- Primary source: https://zaingreatidea.com/ · checked October 2026

### Al Dhow Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/al-dhow-capital/
- Website: https://dhowcapital.net/
- Apply: https://dhowcapital.net/entrepreneurs/
- What you get: Equity investment, early-stage preferred.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Kuwait — source: “We don't believe in geographical boundaries; innovative entrepreneurs can be anywhere.” (https://dhowcapital.net/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Portfolio includes What3words.
- Amount: Early-stage (other rounds considered)
- Primary source: https://dhowcapital.net/ · checked October 2026

### Faith Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/faith-capital/
- Website: https://faithcapital.com/
- Apply: https://faithcapital.com/proposal
- What you get: Equity investment at venture stage.
- Who can apply: Revenue-generating companies operating for at least two full years.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture capital firm investing in founders. Portfolio includes Floward.
- Eligibility: Proposal criteria on faithcapital.com: venture stage with product-market fit · operating for at least two full years · currently revenue generating
- Amount: Venture stage — ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://faithcapital.com/ · checked October 2026

### No Boring Tech — NBT Holdings (formerly Arzan VC)
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/arzan-venture-capital/
- Website: https://www.nbt.holdings/
- Apply: https://www.nbt.holdings/contact
- What you get: Equity investment across pre-seed to Series B stages.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Kuwait venture investor that now operates as No Boring Tech (NBT Holdings), the successor of Arzan Venture Capital: it backs startups and co-creates companies through its Venture Studio, building on Arzan VC's multi-fund track record across 50+ companies and multiple exits.
- Amount: Pre-Seed to Series B
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Jada Fund of Funds, Saudi Venture Capital (SVC)
- Primary source: https://arzan.com.kw/en/arzan-venture-capital/ · checked October 2026

### Savour Ventures
- Type: Micro VC (food) (VC fund) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/savour-ventures/
- Website: https://www.savour.ventures/
- What you get: Micro-VC tickets of $50K–$250K for food startups; does not lead rounds.
- Who can apply: Early-stage food startups across the value chain; no dated activity on its site since 2020.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Dormant
- Summary: Micro venture capital firm based in Kuwait that invests in early-stage food startups across the food value chain, with $50K-$250K per startup; it does not lead rounds but helps complete them with other angels, VCs and family funds. Its limited partners are Kuwaiti food investors and operators, and it offers food-sector know-how and a network of industry experts and founders. Founders quoted on its site as backed by Savour include Foodics, FineDine, OneKitchen and Sprout. Pitch decks go to info@savour.ventures.
- Eligibility: Early-stage, growth-oriented food industry startups across the food value chain
- Terms: Yes — venture capital
- Amount: $50K-$250K per startup · does not lead rounds
- Primary source: https://www.savour.ventures/about · checked October 2026

### Sharq Capital
- Type: Holding company (VC fund) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sharq-capital/
- Website: https://sharqcapital.com/
- What you get: Equity in privately-held companies.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Kuwait private holding company (since 2007) owning and growing privately-held companies, with active companies in Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, UAE, Oman, Egypt and Washington DC.
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://sharqcapital.com/ · checked October 2026

### The Taken Seat
- Type: Venture builder — stake plus shared services (VC fund) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/the-taken-seat/
- Website: https://thetakenseat.com/
- Apply: https://thetakenseat.com/contact/
- What you get: Kuwait venture builder that takes a stake and runs shared services for its companies.
- Who can apply: Founders building operating companies in Kuwait, KSA and the UAE.
- Cost: Equity — direct stake taken
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture builder in Kuwait City (Al Hamra Tower) that builds, funds and runs operating companies across Kuwait, Saudi Arabia and the UAE: it takes a stake, then gives the founders the shared services it already runs. Beyond the Gulf it invests in technology companies through special-purpose vehicles and funds.
- Primary source: https://thetakenseat.com/ · checked October 2026

### KFAS Applied Research Grant
- Type: Non-dilutive R&D grant (Grant) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/kfas-applied-research-grant/
- Website: https://www.kfas.org.kw/research/grants/Applied-Research-Grants
- Apply: https://grants.kfas.org.kw/
- Closes: 15 Nov 2026
- What you get: Non-dilutive applied research grant.
- Who can apply: Researchers at Kuwaiti academic, public and non-profit institutions.
- Cost: No equity — grant
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: KFAS's applied research grant for innovation creating practical solutions for specific end-users. KFAS is funded by private-sector shareholding companies at one percent of annual profits.
- Eligibility: Researchers at research & higher-education, public/governmental and not-for-profit institutions in Kuwait; international researchers only via a Kuwaiti institution
- Terms: No equity
- Amount: Grant — amount not published
- Primary source: https://www.kfas.org.kw/research/grants/Applied-Research-Grants · checked October 2026

### KFAS Young Researcher Grant
- Type: Non-dilutive grant (Grant) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/kfas-young-researcher-grant/
- Website: https://www.kfas.org.kw/research/grants/Young-Researcher-Grants
- Apply: https://grants.kfas.org.kw/
- Closes: 15 Nov 2026
- What you get: Research grant.
- Who can apply: Under-33s without a PhD, at least a bachelor’s degree.
- Cost: No equity — grant
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: KFAS grants for students, working professionals and researchers (non-PhD) under 33 who lead applied or fundamental research projects, hosted at a local research or academic institution.
- Eligibility: Under 33, no PhD, at least a bachelor’s degree; project hosted at a local research or academic institution
- Amount: Grant — amount not published
- Primary source: https://www.kfas.org.kw/research/grants/Young-Researcher-Grants · checked October 2026

### CBK Digital Banking Guidelines
- Type: Licensing Framework (Government) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/cbk-digital-banking-guidelines/
- Website: https://www.cbk.gov.kw/en/cbk-news/announcements-and-press-releases/press-releases/2022/02/202202021000-cbk-governor-announces-digital-banks-guidelines
- What you get: Licensing guidelines for digital banks (since 2022).
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Central Bank of Kuwait guidelines setting the requirements for establishing digital banks, issued in February 2022.
- Eligibility: Not published
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://www.cbk.gov.kw/en/cbk-news/announcements-and-press-releases/press-releases/2022/02/202202021000-cbk-governor-announces-digital-banks-guidelines · checked October 2026

### CBK Wolooj Innovation Hub
- Type: Central-bank innovation hub (Government) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/cbk-wolooj-innovation-hub/
- Website: https://www.cbk.gov.kw/en/legislation-and-regulation/innovation-hub/overview
- Apply: https://www.cbk.gov.kw/en/legislation-and-regulation/innovation-hub/apply
- What you get: R&D programme support for fintech innovation projects.
- Who can apply: Startups and other FinTech innovators.
- Cost: No equity — programme support
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Central Bank of Kuwait's innovation hub for FinTech R&D — five themes: cybersecurity & data privacy, regulatory compliance, sustainable finance, open banking, AI in finance.
- Eligibility: Startups and other FinTech innovators
- Terms: No equity
- Amount: R&D programme support
- Primary source: https://www.cbk.gov.kw/en/legislation-and-regulation/innovation-hub/overview · checked October 2026

### CBK Wolooj Regulatory Sandbox
- Type: Regulatory Sandbox (Government) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/cbk-wolooj-regulatory-sandbox/
- Website: https://www.cbk.gov.kw/en/legislation-and-regulation/innovation-hub/overview
- Apply: https://www.cbk.gov.kw/en/legislation-and-regulation/innovation-hub/apply
- What you get: Regulatory permission to test fintech products live; no funding provided.
- Who can apply: FinTech products under CBK's purview — cybersecurity, compliance, sustainable finance, open banking, AI.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Central Bank of Kuwait's FinTech sandbox within the Wolooj innovation hub: pre-application, application, guidance, pilot and graduation stages.
- Eligibility: FinTech products under CBK's purview — current themes: cybersecurity & data privacy, regulatory compliance, sustainable finance, open banking, AI in finance
- Amount: Regulatory permission to test
- Primary source: https://www.cbk.gov.kw/en/legislation-and-regulation/innovation-hub/overview · checked October 2026

### CMA FinTech Unit (Module 19)
- Type: Regulator (Government) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/cma-fintech-unit-module-19/
- Website: https://www.cma.gov.kw/en/web/cma/home
- What you get: Regulatory permission to operate as a securities crowdfunding platform or fintech.
- Who can apply: Securities crowdfunding platforms, robo-advisors and capital-markets fintechs.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- Status: Active
- Summary: Capital Markets Authority's FinTech unit — covers securities-based crowdfunding, robo-advisory, and capital-markets innovation.
- Eligibility: Securities crowdfunding platforms, robo-advisors, capital-markets fintech
- Amount: Regulatory permission to operate
- Primary source: https://www.cma.gov.kw/en/web/cma/home · checked October 2026

### KDIPA
- Type: FDI Authority (Government) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/kdipa/
- Website: https://kdipa.gov.kw/
- Apply: https://icrp.kdipa.gov.kw/
- What you get: Up to 100% foreign ownership and up to a 10-year tax holiday for investors.
- Who can apply: Foreign investors and companies establishing in Kuwait.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Applicant must go through KDIPA's 4-step investment licensing procedure (Proposal, Business Plan, Application and Decision, Issue) to obtain a Kuwait investment license — source: “Enabling 100% Foreign Ownership in Businesses” (https://kdipa.gov.kw/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Kuwait's FDI gateway under Law 116/2013. Up to 100% foreign ownership, up to 10-year tax exemption, customs exemptions and land allocation.
- Amount: Up to 100% foreign ownership · Up to 10-year tax holiday
- Primary source: https://kdipa.gov.kw/ · checked October 2026

### Kuwait Investment Authority (KIA)
- Type: Sovereign Wealth Fund (Government) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/kuwait-investment-authority-kia/
- Website: https://www.kia.gov.kw/
- What you get: Manages sovereign capital; not a direct-application funder.
- Who can apply: Not applicable — a sovereign wealth fund, not an open applicant programme.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Kuwait’s sovereign wealth fund — one of the world’s oldest.
- Amount: Sovereign capital — size not published
- Primary source: https://www.kia.gov.kw/ · checked October 2026

### Ministry of Commerce & Industry
- Type: Government Ministry (Government) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/ministry-of-commerce-and-industry/
- Website: https://www.moci.gov.kw/en/
- What you get: Company setup fees.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- Status: Active
- Summary: Kuwait's regulator for company formation and SME licensing — e-services via the Kuwait Business Center.
- Amount: Setup fees
- Primary source: https://www.moci.gov.kw/en/ · checked October 2026

### NTEC
- Type: Government VC / projects company (Government) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/ntec/
- Website: https://www.ntec.com.kw/
- What you get: KWD 100M (~$350M) capital deployed via government-backed VC and projects.
- Who can apply: Not applicable — a government VC/projects company, not an open programme.
- Status: Active
- Summary: KIA-owned, KWD 100M (~$350M) capitalised tech projects vehicle. Portfolio includes Tala and Immatics — invests via subsidiaries and spin-out vehicles.
- Amount: KWD 100M (~$350M) capital
- Primary source: https://www.ntec.com.kw/ · checked October 2026

### Agility Ventures
- Type: Corporate Venture Capital (Corporate VC) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/agility-ventures/
- Website: https://agility.com/strategic-investments/agility-ventures/
- Apply: https://www.agility.com/contact-us/agility-ventures/
- What you get: Equity investment.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Corporate VC arm of Agility (Agility Global, listed on the Abu Dhabi Securities Exchange) — a multi-business owner, operator and investor. Invests in sustainable transport, energy and supply-chain tech.
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://agility.com/strategic-investments/agility-ventures/ · checked October 2026

### Empower by Boubyan (Boubyan Bank)
- Type: Bank programme with a venture investment track (Corporate VC) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/empower-by-boubyan-boubyan-bank/
- Website: https://www.bankboubyan.com/en/empower-by-boubyan
- Apply: https://www.bankboubyan.com/en/empower-by-boubyan
- What you get: Bank programme: mentorship, partnerships and a venture investment track.
- Who can apply: Kuwaiti entrepreneurs; mentorship for concept or prototype stage.
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Boubyan Bank’s programme for Kuwaiti entrepreneurs, with four tracks: Boubyan Business Connect networking events, mentorship for early-stage founders with concepts or prototypes, a partnership track, and a venture investment track backing high-potential opportunities aligned with Boubyan’s digital innovation vision. Founders apply through the form on the programme page; the team reviews each profile and then discusses next steps. Ticket sizes are not published.
- Eligibility: Kuwaiti entrepreneurs · mentorship track for early-stage founders developing concepts or prototypes
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://www.bankboubyan.com/en/empower-by-boubyan · checked October 2026

### KFHC Ventures (formerly KISP)
- Type: Sharia-compliant Venture Capital (Corporate VC) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/kfhc-ventures-formerly-kisp/
- Website: https://kfhcventures.com/
- What you get: Sharia-compliant equity investment in tech companies.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Sharia-compliant VC subsidiary of KFH Capital, the investment arm of Kuwait Finance House.
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://kfhcventures.com/ · checked October 2026

### Zain Ventures
- Type: Corporate venture capital (telecom) (Corporate VC) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/zain-ventures/
- Website: https://zain.com/AR2025/zain-ventures-2/
- What you get: Zain’s investment arm: VC funds and direct deals, about USD 156M invested by end-2025.
- Who can apply: Eligibility not published; no application route.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Investment arm of Zain, the telecom group headquartered in Kuwait. It invests in regional and international venture capital funds and directly in companies, offering them access to Zain’s geographical reach and customer base, and had invested about USD 156 million by the end of 2025. Its fund commitments include Dubai-based BECO Capital III (early-stage technology startups) and Wamda MENA Venture I; in 2024 it invested in Intelmatix, a Saudi-based AI software startup.
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: About USD 156M invested by end-2025 (funds and direct) · ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://zain.com/AR2025/zain-ventures-2/ · checked October 2026

### Industrial Bank of Kuwait
- Type: Concessional loan (Loan) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/industrial-bank-of-kuwait/
- Website: https://www.ibkuwt.com/en/
- Apply: https://www.ibkuwt.com/en/services/apply/?service=3
- What you get: Medium and long-term industrial and SME loan financing; amount varies by project.
- Who can apply: Industrial and productive SMEs and projects.
- Cost: No equity — concessional loan, repayable
- From abroad: A company in Kuwait is required — Kuwaiti national, or a company established under Kuwaiti Companies Law — source: “You must be a Kuwaiti national, or a company established under Kuwaiti Companies Law.” (https://www.ibkuwt.com/en/services/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Government-established specialised bank (1973) for industry in Kuwait — medium and long-term industrial and SME financing.
- Eligibility: Industrial / productive SMEs and projects
- Terms: No equity
- Amount: Project-dependent
- Primary source: https://www.ibkuwt.com/en/ · checked October 2026

### National Fund — SME Financing
- Type: Government loan (Loan) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/national-fund-sme-financing/
- Website: https://www.nationalfund.gov.kw/en/faq/
- Apply: https://nationalfund.gov.kw/en/e-service/?page=funding
- What you get: Government loan up to KD 400,000, covering up to 80% of project capital.
- Who can apply: Kuwaiti citizens aged 21 and over, working full-time on the project.
- Cost: Loan — interest-free, one-time 2% fee; partners add 20%+
- From abroad: Nationals or residents of Kuwait — Kuwaiti citizen; Age 21 or older; Project capital not above KWD 500,000 — source: “To be a Kuwaiti citizen, of age not less than 21 years” (https://www.nationalfund.gov.kw/en/faq/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Kuwait's SME financier — funds up to KD 400,000 and up to 80% of project capital, provided the project capital does not exceed KD 500,000. The partners contribute at least 20%.
- Eligibility: Kuwaiti citizens, at least 21 years old, working full-time on the project · project capital max KD 500,000
- Terms: Partners contribute at least 20% of the project
- Amount: Up to KD 400,000 · up to 80% of project capital (project capital max KD 500,000)
- Primary source: https://www.nationalfund.gov.kw/en/ · checked October 2026

### Boursa Kuwait Emerging Companies Market (ECM)
- Type: IPO / listing route (Support) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/boursa-kuwait-emerging-companies-market-ecm/
- Website: https://www.boursakuwait.com.kw/en/resources/product-information/ecm
- Apply: https://events.boursakuwait.com.kw/Survey/IssuersListing?lang=en
- What you get: Public equity raise through ECM listing.
- Who can apply: Growth-stage SMEs meeting ECM listing thresholds.
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Boursa Kuwait's listing route for growth-stage companies — the Emerging Companies Market. Minimum fair value KWD 750K, at least 20 shareholders each holding KWD 5,000 or more, 20% free float, financial statements approved by the General Assembly for the last two full financial years, and a listing advisor guiding every stage.
- Eligibility: Growth-stage SMEs meeting ECM listing thresholds
- Amount: Public equity raise — ECM listing
- Primary source: https://www.boursakuwait.com.kw/en/resources/product-information/ecm · checked October 2026

### KFAS Innovation Challenge
- Type: Corporate innovation programme (Support) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/kfas-innovation-challenge/
- Website: https://www.kfas.org/Offerings/Private-Sector-Worker/Training--Development/KFAS-Innovation-Challenge
- What you get: Training programme for intrapreneurial teams; no direct funding provided.
- Who can apply: Kuwaiti shareholding and government-owned companies.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- Status: Active
- Summary: KFAS four-month corporate-innovation programme for private Kuwaiti shareholding companies and government-owned companies; the latest edition published on kfas.org is 2025, with Imperial College London.
- Eligibility: Private Kuwaiti shareholding companies and government-owned companies
- Amount: Training programme — no direct funding
- Primary source: https://www.kfas.org/media(ef48f20a-b558-4dca-9064-bc0ee5b437f9) · checked October 2026

### KISR Commercialization Division
- Type: Tech transfer / commercialization (Support) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/kisr-commercialization-division/
- Website: https://www.kisr.edu.kw/
- What you get: Programme support for spin-outs.
- Who can apply: Researchers.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Kuwait Institute for Scientific Research's technology-transfer arm — IP management, licensing and spin-out support for research-based ventures.
- Eligibility: Researchers
- Amount: Programme support
- Primary source: https://www.kisr.edu.kw/ · checked October 2026

### Sirdab Lab
- Type: Startup hub + co-working (Support) · Country: Kuwait
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sirdab-lab/
- Website: https://sirdab-lab.com/
- What you get: Coworking space and programme support for tech founders.
- Who can apply: Aspiring tech founders in Kuwait.
- Status: Dormant
- Summary: Kuwait's startup hub — coworking, community and events space. Based in Dasman Complex, Sharq, Kuwait City.
- Eligibility: Aspiring tech founders in Kuwait
- Amount: Workspace + programme support
- Primary source: https://sirdab-lab.com/ · checked October 2026

## Oman — 24 programmes

### Al Jabr MENA (aljabr)
- Type: Startup development firm — programmes and pre-seed/seed investment (Accelerator) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/al-jabr-mena-aljabr/
- Website: https://www.aljabrmena.com/
- Apply: https://www.aljabrmena.com/apply-for-investment
- What you get: Omani startup builder investing up to $100K and running accelerator programmes.
- Who can apply: Pre-seed and seed stage startups.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026) — source: “Accepting applications from pre-seed and seed stage companies” (https://www.aljabrmena.com/apply-for-investment)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Omani startup development and corporate innovation firm that invests up to $100K in startups and builds entrepreneurial programmes — pre-acceleration, incubation and acceleration — such as the NBO FinTech Accelerator in Muscat. It joined byanat's seed round alongside 500 Global, Sanabil Investments and Omantel.
- Eligibility: Pre-seed and seed stage companies
- Amount: Up to $100K per startup
- Primary source: https://www.aljabrmena.com/ · checked October 2026

### ASYAD–Omantel Accelerator
- Type: Corporate accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/asyad-omantel-accelerator/
- Website: https://www.omantel.om/en/innovation-labs/asyad-oman-accelerator
- What you get: Programme support with a route to investment.
- Who can apply: Tech startups in logistics and supply chain.
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Joint accelerator by ASYAD Group and Omantel for logistics and supply chain tech startups.
- Eligibility: Tech startups in logistics and supply chain
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Programme support + investment pathway
- Primary source: https://www.omantel.om/en/innovation-labs/asyad-oman-accelerator · checked October 2026

### Industrial Business Accelerator (Industrial Innovation Academy)
- Type: Industrial accelerator (6 months + 3 months follow-up) (Accelerator) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/industrial-business-accelerator-industrial-innovation-academy/
- Website: https://iia.om/
- Apply: https://accelerator.iia.om/
- What you get: Six-month industrial accelerator with prototyping, advice and investor links; no cash amount.
- Who can apply: Industrial idea holders, factory owners, and industrial tech startups and SMEs.
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Six-month accelerator for industrial projects and industrial startups, run by the Industrial Innovation Academy of Madayn (the Public Establishment for Industrial Estates) at Knowledge Oasis Muscat and launched as an initiative of the Promising Omani Startups Programme. Two tracks: industrial innovation development - for ideas and startups at idea, pre-seed and seed stage that build products or technologies for industry and supply chains (prototypes, testing, investment readiness) - and industrial project creation - for entrepreneurs founding or expanding factories (feasibility studies, business plans, links to industrial financing, supply chains and markets). The current edition runs September 2026 to February 2027, followed by three months of follow-up until May 2027.
- Eligibility: Holders of innovative industrial ideas · entrepreneurs who own factories or industrial facilities · innovative and technology startups in industry · SMEs in the industrial sector
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Programme support - no cash amount published; connects participants with investors and funders
- Primary source: https://accelerator.iia.om/ · checked October 2026

### NBO Fintech Accelerator
- Type: Corporate (bank-led) accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/nbo-fintech-accelerator/
- Website: https://www.nbo.om/
- What you get: Six-month fintech programme in Muscat; Demo Day winner receives up to OMR 240K.
- Who can apply: High-potential fintech startups.
- Cost: Customised roadmap at no cost; funding terms not published
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Fintech accelerator powered by National Bank of Oman in partnership with Al Jabr MENA — a six-month programme in Muscat with one-on-one mentoring from industry leaders and a customised roadmap at no cost; the Demo Day winner receives up to OMR 240K in funding.
- Eligibility: High-potential fintech startups
- Terms: Not published — the programme’s customised roadmap is offered at no cost
- Amount: Demo Day winner: up to OMR 240K in funding
- Primary source: https://www.aljabrmena.com/accelerator-program · checked October 2026

### Oman Startup Hub
- Type: Startup ecosystem platform (Accelerator) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/oman-startup-hub/
- Website: https://omanstartuphub.om/
- Apply: https://omanstartuphub.om/profile/register
- What you get: Access to programmes, resources and connections in Oman's startup ecosystem.
- Who can apply: Omani and Oman-based founders and startups.
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Oman national startup hub giving access to programmes, resources and ecosystem connections.
- Eligibility: Omani and Oman-based founders and startups
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Programme support
- Primary source: https://omanstartuphub.om/ · checked October 2026

### Omantel Innovation Labs
- Type: Corporate accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/omantel-innovation-labs/
- Website: https://www.omantel.om/en/innovation-labs
- Apply: https://www.f6s.com/omantel-accelerator-cohort-9/apply
- Closes: 9 Jan 2027
- What you get: Programme support plus potential investment.
- Who can apply: Tech startups, ideally with an MVP; non-Omani startups need an executable Omani angle.
- Cost: Not published; investment not guaranteed
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Non-Omani startups must have an executable Omani angle; The accelerator page’s selection criteria ask for startups founded in Oman and currently operating within Oman and the MENA region — source: “The Omantel Accelerator Program is open to all startups from Oman and outside, provided that non-Omani startups have an executable Omani angle.” (https://www.omantel.om/en/innovation-labs/faq)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Omantel’s six-month corporate accelerator for local technology startups, plus the ASYAD-Omantel Accelerator for logistics start-ups in Oman. Startups get access to potential investment from Omantel Innovation Labs.
- Eligibility: Technology startups working in 5G, IoT, cyber security, customer experience, big data, AI or fintech (other verticals considered) · post-MVP, preferably with first customers and revenue (earlier-stage companies considered) · the accelerator page asks for startups founded in Oman and operating within Oman and the MENA region; Omantel’s FAQ says startups from outside Oman can join if they have an executable Omani angle
- Terms: Not published — access to potential investment from Omantel’s joint fund with Future Fund Oman, not guaranteed
- Amount: Programme support + potential investment
- Primary source: https://www.omantel.om/en/innovation-labs · checked October 2026

### OQ Accelerator Programme (OQX)
- Type: Corporate accelerator (energy) (Accelerator) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/oq-accelerator-programme-oqx/
- Website: https://oq.com/en/about-us/innovation/oq-accelerator-programme
- Apply: https://www.f6s.com/oqx-energy-accelerator-cohort-31
- What you get: Energy accelerator: up to $50K grant and up to $450K follow-on investment from OQ.
- Who can apply: Energy start-ups past MVP from anywhere, able to join activities in Muscat.
- Cost: Equity — 15% taken, per its F6S page
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Available to take part in programme activities in Muscat, Oman; The Pre-Accelerator track is only for Omani start-ups — source: “Global Applications: Applicants can apply from anywhere in the world for the Accelerator track, while the Pre-accelerator track is exclusively for Omani start-ups.” (https://oq.com/en/about-us/innovation/oq-accelerator-programme)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Energy-sector accelerator of OQ, run by OQX, OQ’s innovation hub, with programme activities in Muscat. The six-month Acceleration Path is for start-ups beyond MVP: those that achieve key milestones may qualify for a grant of up to $50,000 and follow-on investment of up to $450,000. The three-month Pre-Acceleration Path is for Omani early-stage start-ups, with potential investment of up to $100,000 from Future Fund Oman. Focus areas include operation and maintenance of energy assets, polymers and chemicals, digital and AI for energy, energy efficiency, water management, emissions reduction and renewables.
- Eligibility: Acceleration Path: start-ups beyond MVP with a functioning prototype, initial customer traction or a developed product; full-time founders with relevant industry experience, at least two members; open to applicants from anywhere in the world who can take part in activities in Muscat · Pre-Acceleration Path: Omani start-ups only
- Terms: 15% equity taken, according to the programme’s F6S application page
- Amount: Grant up to $50K + follow-on investment up to $450K (Acceleration Path) · up to $100K from Future Fund Oman (Pre-Acceleration Path)
- Primary source: https://oq.com/en/about-us/innovation/oq-accelerator-programme · checked October 2026

### Cyfr Capital
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/cyfr-capital/
- Website: https://www.cyfr.vc/
- What you get: Equity investment.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Oman-based venture capital firm whose co-founders bring network connections from the USA to MENA; portfolio includes d-Matrix, Docker, Kaso, Mamo and Nursa.
- Amount: Not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Future Fund Oman
- Primary source: https://www.cyfr.vc/ · checked October 2026

### ITHCA Group
- Type: Venture Capital + Innovation (VC fund) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/ithca-group/
- Website: https://www.ithca.om/
- Apply: https://ithca.om/direct-investment/
- What you get: Direct ICT investment, idea stage to mature company.
- Who can apply: ICT companies; send an investment teaser of at most 20 slides.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: A company in Oman is required — Company must be incorporated in Oman (stated as a direct-investment requirement) — source: “ITHCA Group does not directly invest in foreign companies, it regularly engages in joint investment with well-established foreign companies to jointly invest in Oman's ICT sector.” (https://ithca.om/investment/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Omani ICT investment group — in its own words "a strategic investor within Oman's ICT investment ecosystem" — with subsidiaries including Oman Technology Fund (OTF). Direct investment route: upload an investment teaser of at most 20 slides through the online form on its Direct Investment page.
- Amount: Direct investment from idea stage to mature company — ticket size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Future Fund Oman
- Primary source: https://www.ithca.om/ · checked October 2026

### Jasara Capital (formerly Oman Angels)
- Type: Investment platform — joint-venture investments (VC fund) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/jasara-capital-formerly-oman-angels/
- Website: https://www.angelinvestments.tech/
- What you get: Omani investor for startups soft-landing in Oman or Omani ventures expanding abroad.
- Who can apply: International startups entering Oman; Omani startups scaling abroad.
- Cost: Equity — 50/50 joint venture
- Status: Active
- Summary: Omani investment platform, established in 2019 as Oman Angels. With Salica Investments and Spring Venture Services it invests in international startups seeking to soft-land in Oman and in Omani ventures expanding regionally and internationally — tailored investments supported by Future Fund Oman and co-investments, structured as 50/50 joint ventures.
- Eligibility: International startups entering Oman; Omani startups expanding abroad
- Terms: Yes — 50/50 joint venture model
- Primary source: https://www.angelinvestments.tech/ · checked October 2026

### OTF Scale (Oman Future Fund)
- Type: Ideation-stage venture capital (VC fund) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/otf-scale-oman-technology-fund/
- Website: https://www.otf.om/
- Apply: https://investee.futurefund.om/OFFApp/Login
- What you get: First cheque up to OMR 40,000 at ideation stage, for a minority stake.
- Who can apply: Founders building in Oman, or Omani founders abroad.
- Cost: Equity — minority stake
- From abroad: A company in Oman is required — Build in Oman or be willing to incorporate in Oman; Omani founders abroad who come home to build — source: “Founders building in Oman, founders willing to incorporate here, and Omani founders currently abroad who want to come home to build.” (https://www.otf.om/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Ideation-stage fund of the Oman Future Fund. It writes the first cheque before the product exists — up to OMR 40,000, released against a first experiment agreed with the founders — for a minority equity stake on standard early-stage terms, then supports founders through incorporation, legal, finance, hiring and pricing in the first 180 days. Open on sector; investments are run with Al Jabr, which also places founders into accelerator programmes. Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis on the Oman Future Fund investee portal.
- Eligibility: Founders building in Oman, founders willing to incorporate in Oman, and Omani founders abroad who want to come home to build · no product, revenue or company needed
- Terms: Yes — minority equity stake on standard early-stage terms
- Amount: Up to OMR 40,000 initial funding (ideation stage)
- Primary source: https://www.otf.om/ · checked October 2026

### Phaze Ventures
- Type: Venture Capital (VC fund) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/phaze-ventures/
- Website: https://phazeventures.com/
- Apply: https://phazeventures.com/funding
- What you get: $200K–$2M tickets, pre-seed to Series A.
- Who can apply: Early-stage B2B AI and deeptech founders in the GCC and North America.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Within the region: GCC and North America — source: “Backing early-stage B2B AI and deeptech founders across the GCC and North America.” (https://phazeventures.com/funding)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Oman's oldest private VC (founded 2018, Muscat). Funds early-stage deep tech and AI companies with tickets from $200K to $2M, pre-seed to Series A, focused on the GCC and North American markets. Portfolio includes Metal (AI fundraising OS) and eMushrif.
- Terms: Yes — equity
- Amount: $200K–$2M tickets — pre-seed to Series A
- Primary source: https://phazeventures.com/ · checked October 2026

### Tanmia Small-Cap Fund
- Type: Growth Private Equity (VC fund) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/tanmia-small-cap-fund/
- Website: https://www.tanmia.om/
- What you get: Later-stage growth equity.
- Who can apply: Later-stage, high-growth Omani companies with a solid track record.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Oman later-stage growth private equity fund, sector-agnostic. Future Fund Oman as anchor investor, TANMIA as Investment Manager.
- Amount: Later-stage growth equity — ticket size not published
- Backed by (stated on the backer’s own site): Future Fund Oman
- Primary source: https://www.tanmia.om/ · checked October 2026

### Central Bank of Oman — FinTech
- Type: Regulatory Framework + Sandbox (Government) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/central-bank-of-oman-fintech/
- Website: https://www.cbo.gov.om/
- Apply: https://cbo.gov.om/pages/FRSForm.aspx
- What you get: Regulatory permission to test products live; no funding provided.
- Who can apply: FinTech and payments startups.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- From abroad: A company in Oman is required — Foreign company must obtain a Commercial Registration in Oman in order to apply — source: “A foreign company that is not based in Oman and does not have any activities here must therefore obtain a Commercial Registration in order to apply to the FRS.” (https://cbo.gov.om/Pages/FintechFAQs.aspx)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Regulatory sandbox for FinTech innovation.
- Eligibility: FinTech and payments startups
- Amount: Regulatory permission to test
- Primary source: https://www.cbo.gov.om/ · checked October 2026

### Future Fund Oman
- Type: Sovereign Fund (OIA) (Government) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/future-fund-oman/
- Website: https://www.futurefund.om/FutureFund/Process
- Apply: https://investee.futurefund.om/OFFApp/Login
- What you get: VC OMR 4K–100K (ideation to seed); SME equity OMR 250K–5M; SME debt OMR 100K–500K; projects to OMR 100M.
- Who can apply: Oman-based ventures and SMEs in tech, climate and other priority sectors, per track requirements.
- Cost: Equity or debt — up to 40% stake on project track
- From abroad: A company in Oman is required — Projects and investments based in Oman; SME lending: registered and operating in the Sultanate of Oman, with Omani partners owning at least 50%; SME programmes dedicated to SME card holders only — source: “The Fund covers projects and investments based in Oman which adhere to the following criteria:” (https://www.futurefund.om/FutureFund/Process)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Oman Investment Authority fund with three routes for founders (futurefund.om/Process): a venture capital track for ideation, pre-seed and seed startups with OMR 4,000–40,000 (ideation) and OMR 20,000–100,000 (pre-seed and seed) per opportunity; SME equity of OMR 250K–5M and SME lending of OMR 100K–500K without collateral (via Beehive) for SME-card holders; and local projects with tickets of OMR 5–100 million, the Fund taking at most 40%. Fund allocation shown on the site: 90% local direct investments, 7% SMEs, 3% startups. Applications online via the investee portal; review takes up to three months.
- Eligibility: Based in Oman. VC: ideation to seed in climate tech, deep tech, fintech, energy, machine learning, robotics, mobility, cybersecurity, IoT, big data, AI, 5G. SMEs: SME-card holders, operational with revenue; lending requires Omani partners owning at least 50% and 12–24 months of operation. Projects: all sectors except oil and gas and real estate, feasibility study required
- Terms: Equity for VC and SME equity tracks (max 40% stake in projects) · debt track without collateral
- Amount: VC: OMR 4K–40K (ideation) · OMR 20K–100K (pre-seed/seed) · SME equity OMR 250K–5M · SME debt OMR 100K–500K · Projects OMR 5–100M
- Primary source: https://www.futurefund.om/FutureFund/Process · checked October 2026

### Knowledge Oasis Muscat
- Type: Tech Park (Government) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/knowledge-oasis-muscat/
- Website: https://madayn.om/kom/
- Apply: https://ems.madayn.om/RegistrationStart.aspx
- What you get: Tech park benefits and tax exemptions.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Oman premier tech park. 100% foreign ownership, tax exemptions and innovation park infrastructure.
- Amount: Tech park benefits + tax exemptions
- Primary source: https://madayn.om/kom/ · checked October 2026

### Oman Investment Authority (OIA)
- Type: State investment arm (Government) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/oman-investment-authority-oia/
- Website: https://oia.gov.om/en
- What you get: Sovereign capital backing; not a direct funder.
- Who can apply: Not applicable — the state's investment arm, not an open programme.
- Status: Active
- Summary: The investment arm of the Sultanate of Oman; it does not fund startups directly.
- Amount: Sovereign capital
- Primary source: https://oia.gov.om/en · checked October 2026

### Riyada — ASMED
- Type: SME Authority (Government) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/riyada-asmed/
- Website: https://www.sme.gov.om/en/
- Apply: https://eservices.sme.gov.om/
- What you get: Financing programmes and training.
- Who can apply: Omani SMEs and entrepreneurs.
- From abroad: Nationals or residents of Oman — Omani citizen; SME owner registered with the Authority — source: “The applicant must be an Omani citizen.” (https://www.sme.gov.om/en/servicedetails/?ID=4)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Oman Authority for SME Development (Small and Medium Enterprises Development Authority). Financial support, training, and taseed programme.
- Eligibility: Omani SMEs and entrepreneurs
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://www.sme.gov.om/en/ · checked October 2026

### Sas for Excellence
- Type: Government scale-up programme (Government) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sas-for-excellence/
- Website: https://www.sas.om/SASEN/Pages/ExcellenceInitiative.aspx
- What you get: Up to OMR 1M per company in financing support, plus wage subsidies.
- Who can apply: Omani-majority-owned tech companies, 3+ years old with 15+ Omani staff.
- Cost: Financing terms not published
- Status: Closed
- Summary: MTCIT Sas Center scale-up initiative selecting five high-growth Omani tech companies for regional and international expansion — up to OMR 1M per company in financing support, wage support for up to 40 Omani employees and preferential treatment in government tenders. Partners include the Ministry of Labour, Ministry of Finance, OIA, PDO and Development Bank.
- Eligibility: Omani tech companies — ≥51% Omani-owned, 3+ years operating, ≥15 Omani FTEs, revenue CAGR ≥15%
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Up to OMR 1M per company + wage support
- Primary source: https://www.sas.om/SASEN/Pages/ExcellenceInitiative.aspx · checked October 2026

### Special Economic Zone at Duqm (SEZAD)
- Type: Special Economic Zone (Government) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/duqm-free-zone/
- Website: https://duqm.gov.om/en
- Apply: https://eoss.duqm.gov.om/
- What you get: Special economic zone incentives plus a 30-year tax holiday.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Oman — source: “Foreign investors can establish projects without the need of local partner in the project.” (https://duqm.gov.om/en/invest/faq)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Oman logistics and industrial special economic zone. Deep sea port, airport, 100% foreign ownership. Strategic for logistics and industrial tech.
- Amount: Special economic zone incentives + 30-year tax holiday
- Primary source: https://duqm.gov.om/en · checked October 2026

### Sharakah (Fund for Development of Youth Projects)
- Type: SME development fund + advisory (State equity) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sharakah-fund-for-development-of-youth-projects/
- Website: https://sharakah.om/
- Apply: https://sharakah.om/
- What you get: Equity OMR 100K–350K, debt OMR 10K–350K, or factoring up to OMR 500K.
- Who can apply: Omani entrepreneurs running SMEs and pre-seed or seed startups.
- Cost: Equity — exit within 6 years
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Omani SME and startup development company (closed joint stock company, est. 1998 by Royal Decree). Products on the site: Growth Equity OMR 100,000–350,000 (Sharakah contributes up to 49%, shareholding 10–49%, exit within 6 years, business operational for 3+ years); debt OMR 10,000–350,000; invoice factoring up to OMR 500,000; Sharakah Ventures OMR 10,000–50,000 as equity, convertible debt or SAFE for pre-seed and seed startups.
- Eligibility: Omani entrepreneurs — SMEs and startups; Growth Equity needs 3+ years of operation and a positive financial track record
- Terms: Equity — exit within 6 years (Growth Equity)
- Amount: Equity OMR 100K–350K · Debt OMR 10K–350K · Ventures OMR 10K–50K · Factoring up to OMR 500K
- Primary source: https://sharakah.om/ · checked October 2026

### Oman Development Bank
- Type: Development Bank (Loan) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/oman-development-bank/
- Website: https://db.om/
- Apply: https://db.om/sme-loan-request-form
- What you get: Project-dependent loans.
- Who can apply: Productive-sector SMEs in Oman.
- Cost: Loan — repayable
- From abroad: A company in Oman is required — Form asks for an Omani commercial registration number; Project location chosen from Omani governorates; Form in Arabic only — source: “رقم السجل التجاري” (https://db.om/sme-loan-request-form)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Oman development bank providing concessional loans for productive sector projects and SMEs.
- Eligibility: Productive sector SMEs in Oman
- Terms: No equity
- Amount: Loans — project dependent
- Primary source: https://db.om/ · checked October 2026

### Terminal 11
- Type: Innovation Hub (Support) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/terminal-11/
- Website: https://terminal11.om/
- Apply: https://terminal11.om/programmes
- What you get: Programmes and workspace (desks from OMR 40/month).
- Who can apply: Riyada Venture Studio: founders based in Oman or able to join in Oman; one founder full-time.
- Cost: Workspace from OMR 40/month; programme terms not published
- From abroad: A company in Oman is required — The accelerator in France is for Omani startups in the growth stage; strong English proficiency is prioritised — source: “Designed for high-potential Omani startups to validate their products in the EU market and build partnerships and potential clients through the program.” (https://terminal11.om/programmes)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Innovation hub in Muscat Grand Mall (Tilal Complex) — part of the CIC global network and an initiative of the Oman Investment Authority. 5,000+ m² connecting startups, corporates, investors, academia and government. Partners named on the site include Omantel, the SME Development Authority, Huawei, Station F and HEC Paris.
- Terms: Not published — in Riyada Venture Studio's Co-Founder Track the Studio joins as a co-founder
- Amount: Programmes + workspace (Shared Desk OMR 40/month, Assigned Desk OMR 115/month) — no funding amount published
- Primary source: https://terminal11.om/ · checked October 2026

### Zubair Enterprises Development Centre (Zubair EDC)
- Type: Enterprise development centre (not-for-profit, membership) (Support) · Country: Oman
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/zubair-enterprises-development-centre-zubair-edc/
- Website: https://zubairedc.org/
- Apply: https://zubairedc.org/how-to/become-a-member/
- What you get: Advisory, training and networking; yearly grants for ten winners.
- Who can apply: Omani entrepreneurs, from a business concept to an existing small enterprise.
- From abroad: Nationals or residents of Oman — Membership for Omani entrepreneurs — source: “Zubair EDC has opened its membership to Omani entrepreneurs to provide them with various benefits, including:” (https://zubairedc.org/who-we-are/our-profile/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Not-for-profit advisory centre for Oman's small enterprises, established in 2013 as an initiative of The Zubair Corporation. Membership is open to Omani entrepreneurs - from a business concept to an existing small enterprise - through an application form, followed by a call and a meeting at its offices in Azaiba. Members get solution-based advisory, capacity building, networking platforms, business development and facilitated contact with selected financial institutions; a yearly programme selects ten winners who receive a financial grant, plus intensive advisory, branding, packaging and product stabilisation.
- Eligibility: Omani entrepreneurs - from a business concept to an existing small enterprise; membership by application form
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Financial grants for the ten yearly winners of its Direct Support Programme - amount not published
- Primary source: https://zubairedc.org/who-we-are/our-profile/ · checked October 2026

## Bahrain — 24 programmes

### Bahrain FinTech Bay
- Type: Accelerator + Hub (Accelerator) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/bahrain-fintech-bay/
- Website: https://bahrainfintechbay.com/
- Apply: https://www.bahrainfintechbay.com/apply-for-funding
- What you get: Accelerator and incubation programmes.
- Who can apply: FinTech startups with at least an MVP.
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Tech-enabled startup; Operating in or entering Bahrain — source: “Local, regional, or international companies operating in or entering Bahrain” (https://www.bahrainfintechbay.com/investment)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Bahrain's FinTech hub. Runs incubation and accelerator programmes, including bank-backed cohorts such as the NBB Innovation Programme. 
- Eligibility: FinTech startups — MVP stage minimum
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Programme support + ecosystem access
- Primary source: https://bahrainfintechbay.com/ · checked October 2026

### Brinc
- Type: Accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/brinc/
- Website: https://brinc.io/founders
- What you get: Accelerator support with potential investment.
- Who can apply: Startups in Brinc's current Bahrain programmes: innovation, sustainability, fashion, retail.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Global venture-acceleration and innovation-programme firm with a Bahrain location; its ongoing Bahrain programmes include Open Innovation and Tamkeen: Mashroo3i.
- Eligibility: Innovation/sustainability and fashion & retail startups (current Bahrain programs)
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Programme support + investment
- Primary source: https://brinc.io/founders · checked October 2026

### Flat6Labs Bahrain
- Type: Accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/flat6labs-bahrain/
- Website: https://flat6labs.com/Location/bahrain/
- Apply: https://flat6labs.com/apply-now/
- What you get: Accelerator support.
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Flat6Labs expanded to Bahrain in 2018 with programmes for local and global entrepreneurs; its Bahrain page lists Tamkeen, Bahrain EDB and Startup Bahrain among its partners. The page lists no Bahrain programme and no open application.
- Amount: Amount not published on site
- Primary source: https://flat6labs.com/Location/bahrain/ · checked October 2026

### Innovate for Bahrain (I4BH)
- Type: Innovation platform and accelerator (partner-funded programmes) (Accelerator) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/innovate-for-bahrain-i4bh/
- Website: https://www.innovate4bh.com/
- What you get: Women in Tech: up to USD 35,000 equity-free from Standard Chartered; 8 weeks.
- Who can apply: Women-led tech startups headquartered in Bahrain; founders aged 18–35.
- Cost: No equity — partner-funded grants and prizes
- Status: Closed
- Summary: National innovation platform in Aali that runs startup acceleration programmes with partners from government, corporations and academia. Its Women in Tech Bahrain programme, run with Standard Chartered and Village Capital, is an 8-week accelerator with equity-free funding of up to USD 35,000 from Standard Chartered Bank; over six years it has supported 61 local startups, and 22 female-led startups have received USD 385,000. It also ran Visa She’s Next with Visa and Bahrain Islamic Bank, an 8-week programme with a USD 45,000 cash grand prize.
- Eligibility: Women in Tech: Bahraini citizens or residents · at least one woman founder or co-founder · aged 18–35 · headquartered and operating in Bahrain · tech-based or tech-enabled, tackling an issue aligned with the SDGs
- Terms: No equity — partner-funded grants and prizes
- Amount: Women in Tech: equity-free funding up to USD 35,000 (Standard Chartered) · Visa She’s Next: USD 45,000 grand prize
- Primary source: https://www.innovate4bh.com/ · checked October 2026

### InspireU Bahrain
- Type: Corporate accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/inspireu-bahrain/
- Website: https://www.stc.com.bh/content/General-Program
- Apply: https://www.stc.com.bh/content/General-Program
- What you get: Competitive financial grants; possible investment via stc’s corporate VC.
- Who can apply: Startups in their early stages.
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: InspireU, the startup programme of stc Bahrain, for startups in their early stages. Its General Program (intake 11) offers competitive financial grants, the possibility of investment through stc’s corporate venture capital and its network of investors, office space, stc services and guidance from local and international experts.
- Eligibility: Startups in their early stages
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Competitive financial grants · possible investment through stc’s corporate venture capital — amounts not published
- Primary source: https://www.stc.com.bh/content/General-Program · checked October 2026

### NBB Innovation Programme
- Type: Bank fintech accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/nbb-innovation-programme/
- Website: https://nbbonline.com/news/20994/
- What you get: Three-week fintech accelerator; the 2025 winner got USD 10,000 plus incubation at BFB.
- Who can apply: Early-stage fintech startups and founder teams with validated ideas ready to scale.
- Status: Closed
- Summary: Three-week fintech accelerator of the National Bank of Bahrain (NBB) run with Bahrain FinTech Bay for early-stage fintech startups. The 2025 edition, themed “Future of AI Integration”, ran three tracks (Fintech Founders, NBB and BFB) and ended with a Demo Day; the winning team received a USD 10,000 cash prize, a three-month incubation at Bahrain FinTech Bay and potential partnership discussions with NBB.
- Eligibility: Early-stage fintech startups and founder teams with validated ideas ready to scale (2025 edition)
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: 2025 winner: USD 10,000 cash prize + three-month incubation at Bahrain FinTech Bay
- Primary source: https://nbbonline.com/news/20994/ · checked October 2026

### Tamkeen × Startupbootcamp AI Accelerator
- Type: Government-backed AI accelerator (Accelerator) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/tamkeen-startupbootcamp-ai-accelerator/
- Website: https://www.tamkeen.bh/en/tamkeen-signs-with-startupbootcamp/
- What you get: Share of $4M in programme-wide direct investments.
- Who can apply: Bahraini entrepreneurs, from idea to market-ready stage.
- Status: Active
- Summary: AI accelerator programme by Tamkeen and Startupbootcamp, announced at Gateway Gulf 2025 (Nov 2025). Targets 160 Bahraini entrepreneurs over three years and 80 market-ready AI products, with $4M in direct investments earmarked for promising ventures.
- Eligibility: Bahraini entrepreneurs — idea to market-ready stage
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: $4M direct investments (programme-wide)
- Primary source: https://www.tamkeen.bh/en/tamkeen-signs-with-startupbootcamp/ · checked October 2026

### Hope Fund / Hope Ventures
- Type: Venture Fund (VC fund) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/hope-fund-hope-ventures/
- Website: https://www.hopefund.bh/
- Apply: https://www.hopefund.bh/fund-me
- What you get: Investment plus programme support.
- Who can apply: Bahraini startups.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Hope Fund invests in Bahraini businesses via Hope Ventures. Also runs the Beban TV show and Beban crowdfunding (site).
- Eligibility: Bahraini startups
- Terms: Yes
- Amount: Investment + programme support
- Primary source: https://www.hopefund.bh/ · checked October 2026

### Spring
- Type: Venture studio + pre-seed investor (VC fund) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/spring/
- Website: https://www.springstudios.io/
- What you get: Pre-seed investment of $100K–$200K plus in-house product and engineering support.
- Who can apply: Early-stage fintech founders in Bahrain and the wider MENA region.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: MENA's first fintech-focused venture studio, based in Bahrain — backed by Bahrain's Al Waha Fund of Funds and global VC Salica Investments (formerly Hambro Perks). Builds startups from the ground up and writes pre-seed cheques; portfolio includes Daleel and Receiptable.
- Eligibility: Early-stage fintech founders in Bahrain and the wider MENA region
- Terms: Yes — terms not published
- Amount: Pre-seed: initial investment of $100K–$200K, follow-on possible · venture-building resources
- Primary source: https://www.springstudios.io/ · checked October 2026

### Tamkeen
- Type: Government Fund (Grant) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/tamkeen/
- Website: https://www.tamkeen.bh/
- Apply: https://services.tamkeen.bh/NeoTamkeenPortal/Login
- What you get: Co-matching grants, bank financing access, wage support, training.
- Who can apply: Bahraini entrepreneurs and private sector companies.
- Cost: No equity — grant
- From abroad: A company in Bahrain is required — Bahrain-based with an active CR/license (operating under 3 years); or, without a CR/license, must have a prototype and at least one Bahraini founder — source: “Bahrain-based startups with an active CR or license and operating for less than 3 years; OR Startups without CR or license can apply if they have a prototype and at least one Bahraini founder” (https://www.tamkeen.bh/en/programs/riyada-business-accelerator-program/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Bahrain’s Labour Fund (since 2006): enterprise support from co-matching grants to bank financing, plus employment, wage-support and training programmes; more than 52,900 opportunities supported in 2025.
- Eligibility: Bahraini entrepreneurs and private sector companies
- Terms: No equity
- Amount: Grants + subsidies — project dependent
- Primary source: https://www.tamkeen.bh/en/about-us/ · checked October 2026

### Bahrain Development Bank
- Type: Development Bank (Government) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/bahrain-development-bank/
- Website: https://bdb-bh.com/
- Apply: https://www.tijara.bh/apply-for-loan/
- What you get: SME financing with tenors up to 5 years.
- Who can apply: SMEs and startups in Bahrain.
- Cost: Loan — repayable
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked September 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Government development bank mandated to grow Bahraini SMEs and startups. Financing products on the site include the SME Fund (Sharia-compliant, repayment up to five years, sectors: tourism, manufacturing, logistics, IT & digital economy, finance, health, education), Sanad financing, Musanada and Tamkeen Finance.
- Eligibility: SMEs and startups in Bahrain
- Terms: Credit facilities
- Amount: SME financing — SME Fund up to 5-year tenor; amounts not published
- Primary source: https://bdb-bh.com/ · checked October 2026

### Bahrain EDB
- Type: Investment Promotion (Government) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/bahrain-edb/
- Website: https://www.bahrainedb.com/
- What you get: Investor support, fast registration and a startup visa.
- Who can apply: International companies entering Bahrain.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- Status: Active
- Summary: Bahrain Economic Development Board. Primary FDI gateway. 100% foreign ownership across most sectors (site wording) and ease of doing business with minimum hurdles.
- Eligibility: International companies entering Bahrain
- Terms: No equity
- Amount: Regulatory support
- Primary source: https://www.bahrainedb.com/ · checked October 2026

### BENEFIT
- Type: Financial Infrastructure (Government) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/benefit/
- Website: https://www.benefit.bh/
- What you get: National payments switch; owns Bahrain FinTech Bay. Not a funder.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Bahrain’s national payments switch and fintech enabler; acquired Bahrain FinTech Bay (agreement September 2023, completed 1 October 2023).
- Amount: Not a funding programme
- Primary source: https://benefit.bh/MediaManager/Media/Reports/Annual-Report-EN-24.pdf · checked October 2026

### CBB FinTech Regulatory Sandbox
- Type: Regulatory Sandbox (Government) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/cbb-fintech-regulatory-sandbox/
- Website: https://www.cbb.gov.bh/fintech/
- Apply: https://www.cbb.gov.bh/application-for-regulatory-sandbox/
- What you get: Regulatory permission to test fintech, payments and crypto products.
- Who can apply: FinTech, payments, crypto and open-banking startups globally.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- From abroad: Open to companies from outside Bahrain — Regulatory Sandbox Framework eligibility criteria; BD 100 non-refundable application fee — source: “The Sandbox is open to both existing CBB licensees (financial institutions with FinTech initiatives) and other companies (both local and foreign)” (https://www.cbb.gov.bh/fintech/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Central Bank of Bahrain FinTech regulatory sandbox — live testing with volunteer customers.
- Eligibility: FinTech, payments, crypto, open banking startups globally
- Amount: Regulatory permission to test
- Primary source: https://www.cbb.gov.bh/fintech/ · checked October 2026

### MoIC Bahrain
- Type: Government Ministry (Government) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/moic-bahrain/
- Website: https://www.moic.gov.bh/en/FAQ
- What you get: Licenses incubators, accelerators and incubated startups.
- Cost: No equity — service or permission
- Status: Active
- Summary: Ministry of Industry and Commerce. Licenses business incubators and accelerators and the startups incubated in them (up to two years in an incubator).
- Amount: Licensing — not a funding programme
- Primary source: https://www.moic.gov.bh/en/FAQ · checked October 2026

### Tenmou
- Type: Angel Investor Network (Angel network) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/tenmou/
- Website: https://tenmou.me/
- Apply: https://tenmou.me/contact/
- What you get: Angel investment for early-stage startups in Bahrain.
- Cost: Equity
- From abroad: Not stated on the programme’s site (checked October 2026)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Bahrain first angel investment company. 10th MENA Angel Summit host. Key early-stage investor in Bahraini startups.
- Amount: Not published
- Primary source: https://tenmou.me/ · checked October 2026

### BeVentures
- Type: Corporate Venture Capital (Corporate VC) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/beventures/
- Website: https://www.bapcoenergies.com/be-ventures
- What you get: Direct venture investments.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: The corporate venture capital arm of Bapco Energies, Bahrain's national energy group. It invests in ventures across energy transition, industrial AI and automation, and decarbonisation.
- Amount: Venture investments
- Primary source: https://www.bapcoenergies.com/be-ventures · checked October 2026

### Kanoo Ventures
- Type: Corporate venture arm — later-stage technology and VC, growth, joint ventures (Corporate VC) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/kanoo-ventures/
- Website: https://www.kanoo.com/business/ventures-overview/
- What you get: Kanoo Group's direct-equity arm for later-stage tech, growth deals and joint ventures.
- Who can apply: Later-stage tech and mid-market growth companies; partners entering the GCC.
- Cost: Equity
- Status: Active
- Summary: Direct equity investing and partnering platform of the YBA Kanoo Group, founded in 2022, with the group's head office in Kanoo Tower, Diplomatic Area, Bahrain. It invests in later-stage technology and venture capital opportunities and mid-market growth companies, and builds joint ventures with international players across the GCC — for example CorrosionRADAR (2024, with Aramco Ventures, Dow and Mercia Ventures).
- Eligibility: Later-stage technology companies, mid-market growth companies, international partners entering the GCC
- Amount: Ticket size not published
- Primary source: https://www.kanoo.com/business/ventures-overview/ · checked October 2026

### Zayani Venture Capital
- Type: Corporate venture capital (Corporate VC) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/zayani-venture-capital/
- Website: https://www.alzayani.com/businesses/venture/zayani-venture
- What you get: Venture arm of Bahrain's Alzayani Investments, investing in start-ups since 2020.
- Who can apply: Start-ups and disruptive technology in Bahrain and globally.
- Status: Active
- Summary: Venture capital company of Alzayani Investments, a Bahraini group founded in 1977 (industry, automotive, real estate, food and beverages). Established in 2020 to invest in start-ups and disruptive technology in Bahrain and globally, it says it has built a portfolio across different sectors; its page names no portfolio companies, dated deals or application route.
- Eligibility: Start-ups and disruptive technology in Bahrain and globally
- Terms: Not published
- Amount: Ticket and fund size not published
- Primary source: https://www.alzayani.com/businesses/venture/zayani-venture · checked October 2026

### Riyadat - Women Business Finance Scheme
- Type: Women business financing scheme (Loan) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/riyadat-women-business-finance-scheme/
- Website: https://www.bdb-bh.com/financial-services/women-business-finance-scheme-riyadat/
- Apply: https://www.bdb-bh.com/financial-services/riyadat-application-form/
- What you get: Sharia-compliant financing up to BHD 1M with a 50% profit-rate subsidy; tenor up to 7 years.
- Who can apply: Businesses owned and run by Bahraini women, new (0–3 years) or existing (3+ years).
- Cost: No equity — Sharia-compliant debt
- From abroad: Nationals or residents of Bahrain — Owned and fully managed by a Bahraini woman, based in Bahrain; companies need 51% or more Bahraini women's share capital — source: “Your business is owned and fully managed by a Bahraini woman and based in Bahrain.” (https://www.bdb-bh.com/financial-services/women-business-finance-scheme-riyadat/)
- Status: Open · taking applications
- Summary: Shari'a-compliant financing scheme of Bahrain Development Bank for Bahraini woman-owned startups and SMEs, run with Tamkeen and the Supreme Council for Women. Up to BHD 1 million in financing depending on need and suitability, a tenor of up to 7 years and a Tamkeen subsidy of 50% of the profit rate (capped at 4% for SMEs and 2% for large enterprises). Two tracks: new enterprises (0-3 years, Start your Business) and existing enterprises (over 3 years, Business Growth). Applicants must complete a Tamkeen-sponsored mentorship on the Playbook platform before approved financing is released.
- Eligibility: Business owned and fully managed by a Bahraini woman and based in Bahrain (companies: Bahraini women hold 51% or more of the share capital) · active commercial registration or licence · 0-3 years (new) or over 3 years (existing) in operation · completion of the Playbook mentorship
- Terms: No equity - Shari'a-compliant financing with a profit-rate subsidy
- Amount: Up to BHD 1 million · tenor up to 7 years · 50% profit-rate subsidy (up to 4% for SMEs)
- Primary source: https://www.bdb-bh.com/financial-services/women-business-finance-scheme-riyadat/ · checked October 2026

### SME Fund (Bahrain)
- Type: Government-backed SME financing fund (Loan) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/sme-fund-bahrain/
- Website: https://bdb-bh.com/financial-services/sme-fund/
- Apply: https://bdb-bh.com/financial-services/sme-fund-form/
- What you get: Sharia-compliant SME financing; amount set case by case.
- Who can apply: Bahrain SMEs with an active CR and at least 2 years of operations.
- Cost: No equity — Sharia-compliant debt
- From abroad: A company in Bahrain is required — Must hold an active Commercial Registration (CR); Must be operating in Bahrain; At least 2 years of operations — source: “small and medium-sized enterprises operating in Bahrain across various productive and service sectors” (https://bdb-bh.com/financial-services/sme-fund/)
- Status: Active
- Summary: National SME financing fund managed by Bahrain Development Bank in partnership with NBB, BBK and Al Salam Bank; Tamkeen subsidises up to 50% of the profit rate. Sharia'a-compliant financing with repayment terms of up to five years.
- Eligibility: Bahrain SMEs with active CR and at least 2 years of operations
- Terms: No — debt financing (Sharia’a-compliant)
- Primary source: https://bdb-bh.com/financial-services/sme-fund/ · checked October 2026

### Al Waha Fund of Funds
- Type: Fund of Funds (government-backed) (Fund of funds) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/al-waha-fund-of-funds/
- Website: https://www.alwahafund.com/
- What you get: Commits capital to VC funds; founders reach it through the funds it backs.
- Who can apply: VC funds investing directly in, or with a strategic interest in, MENA; seed through growth.
- Cost: Indirect — invests in funds, not startups
- Status: Closed
- Summary: $100M government-led VC fund-of-funds established in 2018, with Bahrain Development Bank as investment manager. Its five-year investment period ended April 2023; the fund now manages its existing book through a term running to 2028. Backed funds include BECO Capital, MEVP and 500 Startups. No successor fund announced.
- Eligibility: VC funds that invest directly in — or have a strategic interest in — the MENA region, at seed, early and growth stages
- Terms: Via underlying VC funds
- Amount: $100M fund of funds
- Also backs (named on its own site; no GCC base, so not on the map): Lumia Capital (Fund II)
- Primary source: https://www.alwahafund.com/ · checked October 2026

### Bahrain Investment Market (BIM)
- Type: Growth-company equity market (listing route) (Support) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/bahrain-investment-market-bim/
- Website: https://bahrainbourse.com/en/Quotes%20and%20Market/NewBIM/overview
- Apply: https://listinggateway.bahrainbourse.com/
- What you get: Raise growth capital by direct offering on Bahrain Bourse; minimum paid-up capital BHD 50,000.
- Who can apply: Fast-growing closed shareholding companies from Bahrain, the GCC and the wider MENA region.
- Cost: Equity — at least 10% free float
- From abroad: Open to companies from abroad — Closed Shareholding Company in Bahrain or equivalent; Minimum paid-up capital BHD 50,000 or equivalent — source: “Applicant must be established or converted to a Closed Shareholding Company in the Kingdom of Bahrain or its equivalent in any other jurisdiction” (https://bahrainbourse.com/en/Quotes%20and%20Market/NewBIM/overview)
- Status: Active
- Summary: Bahrain Bourse's equity market for fast-growing companies from Bahrain, the GCC and the wider MENA region to raise growth capital by direct offering, with a more relaxed regulatory framework, easier disclosure, minimal admission requirements and a path to the Regular Market. Admission requires a closed shareholding company (in Bahrain or its equivalent in another jurisdiction), minimum paid-up capital of BHD 50,000, sufficient working capital, a free float of at least 10%, at least 2 shareholders and a two-year lock-up for founders. Fees: BD 1,650 registration, an annual fee of 0.3% of paid-up capital plus VAT (BD 1,100 to 5,500) and BD 2,200 a year for the sponsor. BIM rules are approved by the Central Bank of Bahrain.
- Eligibility: Fast-growing companies from Bahrain, the GCC and the wider MENA region · closed shareholding company in Bahrain or its equivalent in another jurisdiction · paid-up capital from BHD 50,000 · at least 2 shareholders · two-year founder lock-up
- Terms: Yes — at least 10% free float of the issued shares
- Amount: Public equity raise by direct offering - minimum paid-up capital BHD 50,000
- Primary source: https://bahrainbourse.com/en/Quotes%20and%20Market/NewBIM/overview · checked October 2026

### StartUp Bahrain
- Type: Ecosystem Platform (Support) · Country: Bahrain
- Page: https://gulfpitch.com/programs/startup-bahrain/
- Website: https://startupbahrain.com/
- Apply: https://startupbahrain.com/pitch
- What you get: Competition prizes plus a national ecosystem directory and events.
- Who can apply: Bahrain startups; Pitch needs a Bahrain CR, an MVP and at least one Bahraini founder.
- From abroad: Nationals or residents of Bahrain — Must be Bahrain-based with an existing Commercial Registration (CR); At least one founder must hold Bahraini nationality; Must demonstrate an MVP, scalability potential, and relevance to local/regional markets — source: “Have at least one Bahraini founder.” (https://startupbahrain.com/pitch)
- Status: Active
- Summary: National startup ecosystem platform powered by Tamkeen. StartUp Bahrain Pitch competition, events, and directory.
- Eligibility: Startups in Bahrain; the Pitch competition requires a Bahrain CR, an MVP and at least one Bahraini founder
- Amount: Competition prizes + ecosystem access
- Primary source: https://startupbahrain.com/ · checked October 2026