News

Riyadh Techstars Accelerator Program To Continue In 2023

The startup funding initiative will work with entrepreneurs to grow and scale MENA companies.

Published

2 years ago

January 26, 2023

riyadh techstars accelerator program to continue in 2023

After wrapping up the inaugural round of The Riyadh Techstars Accelerator in 2022 with investments in 11 portfolio businesses, the program’s organizers have confirmed the continuation of the initiative for 2023.

The Saudi Arabian Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, Saudi National Bank, and RAED Ventures will come together for the pre-seed investor round, comprising a 13-week program that will run from June through to September 2023.

According to a recent press release, 2023’s Riyadh Techstars Accelerator will work with entrepreneurs to establish and expand innovative companies in the MENA region while developing a comprehensive entrepreneurial ecosystem. Saudi Arabia’s IT sector — currently worth over $40 billion and supporting over 318,000 jobs — is quickly becoming a leading global force.

“The nation is also making significant strides in enabling diversity in the workforce, with more women employed in the ICT industry. Agility and resilience, powered by talent and technology, have enabled Saudi Arabia to reach new heights,” says Abdullah Alswaha, Minister of Communications and Information Technology.

Also Read: How To Find The Best Remote Work Opportunities In The Middle East

Startups from across the Middle East and Saudi-based entrepreneurs can now submit their applications to the 2023 Riyadh Techstars Accelerator. This year’s event promises a packed schedule of fundraising opportunities, workshops, mentorship, and networking.

“I am enthusiastic about the growth of the Saudi Arabian and broader Middle East startup ecosystem. Between the Kingdom’s investment in entrepreneurship and its central location, Riyadh can attract global startup talent for the entire region. Part of what we do at Techstars is to help founders connect their innovation with the rest of the world,” says Maëlle Gavet, CEO of Techstars.

News

“AI Seal” Certification Now Required For Dubai Gov Partnerships

The new mandatory certification is designed to build trust in AI companies and create a reliable network of providers for government and public collaboration.

Published

21 hours ago

January 21, 2025

Nour Nasir

ai seal certification now required for dubai gov partnerships

Dubai Media Office

Dubai has introduced the Dubai AI Seal, a certification designed to establish trust in artificial intelligence (AI) companies and solutions. This initiative, directed by Sheikh Hamdan bin Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Crown Prince of Dubai and Deputy Prime Minister, aims to create a reliable network of AI providers which government entities and businesses can collaborate confidently.

Companies must now obtain the AI Seal to qualify for UAE or Dubai government contracts. The Dubai Centre for Artificial Intelligence (DCAI), which developed the certification, sees it as a competitive edge for companies looking to participate in key national projects. Once certified, businesses will be permitted to showcase the seal across their websites and marketing materials, signaling their credibility and dependability.

The evaluation process will consider six main criteria: the company’s services and operations, the number of employees specializing in AI, ongoing and future projects, as well as existing partnerships with public and private sector entities.

dubai ai seal certification

Khalfan Belhoul, CEO of the Dubai Future Foundation, which oversees the DCAI, commented on the initiative’s potential: “This initiative will help create powerful partnerships between the public and private sectors, locally, regionally, and globally. It will help drive new economic opportunities by leveraging AI to serve better the economy, society, and the future we aspire to”.

Also Read: Top Free AI Chatbots Available In The Middle East

The Dubai AI Seal’s goals include providing a clear framework for verifying AI providers, fostering business opportunities for AI companies, and acknowledging the industry’s strategic importance to Dubai’s economy. The initiative emphasizes AI’s role in driving economic growth, creating jobs, and strengthening collaboration between government bodies and technology firms.

All technology companies operating in Dubai and offering AI-related services or products are eligible to apply for the certification at no cost through the official website.