TAQADAM Startup Accelerator
TAQADAM is a global startup accelerator powered by the extraordinary networks of KAUST and SABB.
Since 2016, we’ve backed startups at all stages of growth, supporting founders as they push the boundaries of what’s possible to do things that matter.
During the six-months of TAQADAM, we provide entrepreneurs with mentorship, access to network, funding, and to accelerate their ventures. Teams receive $40,000 in non-dilutive funding, with 10 startups securing additional follow-on funding of $100,000 at the annual showcase.
KAUST Entrepreneurship is a catalyst for innovation, entrepreneurial development, and impact. We provide access to world-class facilities, deep tech startup landing programs, and acceleration. Startups are connected to the world’s brightest minds and given access to Saudi Arabia’s leading innovation hub. Our mission is to empower dreamers by driving an entrepreneurial ecosystem and changing mindsets across Saudi Arabia.
Saudi Awwal Bank is one of the largest banks in the Kingdom and has been tracing its origins in Saudi Arabia for more than 90 years. It has been an active partner supporting the Kingdom’s economic growth and social development during this time. SAB offers integrated financial and banking services, including corporate banking, investment, private banking, and treasury.
Program Elements
1
Accelerator StructureThe Accelerator program comprises of the Bootcamp, regular workshops, 1on1 mentorship sessions, community meetups, and the showcase.Note that attendance and participation in all of these elements are required from every team.Activities that are optional will be communicated and clarified.2
Program Components- Bootcamp: A month of virtual mentorship & networking. Followed by each startup pitching to the accelerator team and the lead mentors.
- Workshops: Regular workshops conducted on specific topics with speakers/experts in that in that particular field.
- Showcase: Startups will be introduced to investors from the kingdom, MENA, and the globe. The startup’s aim from the event is to initiate leads for fundraising, attract corporates as suppliers or customers, and recruit talent.
3
Mentorship SessionsEach startup is assigned a lead mentor who will help the startup throughout the accelerator. Session scheduling is up to the mentor/startup; the average frequency is once every two weeks for 30 minutes. Mentors are allocated to the startup according to their expertise and knowledge of the field.4
Regular MeetupsJeddah and Riyadh: From specialty workshops to guest speakers to group office hours and social nights.
Pages
Get access to all the pages available under the following website.
Calendar
View the important dates of the program for the next 6 months from workshops, guest speaker sessions, Showcase, etc.
Perks
View the list of perks you are eligible for as part of the TAQADAM cohort, from discounts to free credits.
Mentors List
Get to know the TAQADAM team, mentors, and experts! Here you can find a brief bio of the whole team with their Calendly links to book your 1on1 with them.
Benefits
View a list of subsidized benefits offered as part of the accelerator program, from financial services, branding & design services, and access to co-working spaces.
Jump-Start Week
Explore the week’s agenda, including sessions, activities, and program highlights specially curated for your journey in the accelerator.
FAQs
Visit our FAQs page to find answers to common questions about the program, sessions, and resources available to you.
