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.

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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.