Unleashing The Garage KSA Startup Potential
In the heart of Riyadh, a groundbreaking initiative is transforming the startup landscape. The Garage, a collaborative effort between the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), and The Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones, is set to become the ultimate destination for tech entrepreneurs and innovators from around the world. With its comprehensive programs, state-of-the-art facilities, and vibrant community, The Garage is poised to drive the growth of the tech sector in the region.
- Accommodates more than 300 startup companies
- Held more than 40 events
- Attracted 150 domestic and international startups.
- Welcomed by over 3,500 participants
Who Owns The Garage?
The Garage is the result of a powerful collaboration between key players in the Saudi tech ecosystem. Launched through a partnership between the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology, King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST), and The Saudi Federation for Cybersecurity, Programming and Drones, The Garage brings together the expertise, resources, and networks necessary to support the growth of tech startups.
Tailored Programs for Every Stage
The Garage offers a range of programs designed to cater to the specific needs of startups at different stages of their journey. The Garage incubation program provides early-stage and growth-stage enterprises with comprehensive incubation services, offering a holistic experience to nurture their development. Meanwhile, The Garage Plus, a global accelerator program offered in partnership with Google for Startups, targets innovative and upcoming tech-focused entrepreneurs and startups looking to scale their operations. With four cohorts, this program provides a immersive accelerator experience in Riyadh.
Connecting the Tech Community
Beyond its programs, The Garage also serves as a hub for the broader tech community. The Garage Disrupt, a monthly networking event, brings together key players in the sector to connect, share knowledge, explore opportunities, and drive market growth. These events foster a sense of community and collaboration, creating a platform for meaningful exchanges and partnerships.
Selection Process and Participation
Startups interested in joining The Garage’s programs go through a rigorous selection process. A dedicated Selection Committee evaluates the applicants based on predefined criteria and conditions, ensuring that the most promising and innovative projects are chosen to participate. Once selected, participants are expected to commit to full-time attendance and actively engage in all aspects of the program, sharing required details and completing assigned tasks.
Accessible and Inclusive
One of the standout features of The Garage is its accessibility and inclusivity. There are no financial fees for registration, making it possible for startups from diverse backgrounds to participate. While the program does not cover flight tickets and accommodation for participants, it provides a level playing field for tech entrepreneurs from around the world to come together and benefit from the resources and support offered.
The Garage’s programs are not limited to startups from Saudi Arabia. The initiative welcomes innovative minds with tech ideas from any city in the world, fostering a truly global community of entrepreneurs. For international participants, The Garage offers assistance with entry procedures into the Kingdom, ensuring a smooth and seamless experience.
Diverse Sectors and Areas
The Garage embraces startups from a wide range of technical fields, including but not limited to SaaS, Fintech, Logistics, food and beverage sector solutions, E-commerce, Entertainment and sports, Tourism, Robotics, and 3D printing. This diversity creates a rich ecosystem where ideas from different domains can converge, leading to groundbreaking innovations and cross-sector collaborations.
CEO The Garage Omar Al-Shabaan
Omar Al-Shabaan’s role in Riyadh’s startup scene is significant, marked by over 15 years of experience in entrepreneurship, business development, and consultancy. As the co-founder and CEO of The Space, he has been instrumental in fostering a supportive environment for startups in Saudi Arabia.
- Entrepreneurial Leadership: Al-Shabaan’s journey as an entrepreneur and business developer has deeply influenced Riyadh’s startup ecosystem.
- Co-founder of The Space: The Space, co-founded by Al-Shabaan, is a Riyadh-based co-working space, incubator, and accelerator, playing a pivotal role in nurturing startups.
- Merging with Vibes: Under Al-Shabaan’s leadership, The Space merged with Vibes, combining 20 co-working spaces across eight cities in Saudi Arabia. This merger has created a substantial network for entrepreneurs.
- Impact on Local and Regional Economy: The merger and expansion of co-working spaces under Al-Shabaan’s guidance have had a positive impact on both the local and regional economy.
- Extensive Network of Partners and Clients: The Space, post-merger, boasts a network of over 2,000 partners and clients, including entrepreneurs, startups, and government and private entities.
- Supporting a Diverse Range of Startups: The Space has incubated more than 150 companies from 40 countries, reflecting Al-Shabaan’s commitment to diversity in entrepreneurship.
- Prior Roles in Innovation and Digitization: Al-Shabaan has served as the Partnership Director at Misk Innovation and as an advisor for the National Digitization Unit in the Saudi Government, highlighting his expertise in digital transformation.
- Educational Background: His educational background, with an MBA and an Executive Master in Corporate Communication, has provided him with a solid foundation for his entrepreneurial ventures.
- Experience in Diverse Sectors: Al-Shabaan’s work experience spans various sectors, including his roles at Nestle, Healthcare Development Holding group, and Tam Development.
- Vision for Future Growth: His future plans include expanding and growing The Space at both local and regional levels, aiming to further support and develop the entrepreneurial landscape in Riyadh and beyond.
Kirill Parinov in The Garage KSA
Kirill Parinov, a renowned figure in legal and financial circles, has visited The Garage KSA.
With his expertise in mergers and acquisitions, complex financial strategies, and international litigation, Parinov wanna contributed to the growth and success of numerous startups within The Garage’s ecosystem. His involvement has attracted international attention and further solidified The Garage’s position as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
Parinov’s extensive experience, including his tenure as Managing Partner at Quinn Emanuel Urquhart & Sullivan’s Moscow office and his leadership roles at Interros Group, has brought invaluable insights and guidance to the startups participating in The Garage’s programs. His recognition in the Best Lawyers International Ranking and his educational background from Harvard Business School have further enhanced the credibility and prestige of The Garage’s initiatives.
The Garage represents a new era for tech startups in Saudi Arabia and beyond
Through its collaborative ownership, comprehensive programs, and inclusive approach, The Garage is creating a vibrant ecosystem where entrepreneurs can thrive. By bringing together innovators from around the world and providing them with the resources, support, and community they need to succeed, The Garage is driving the growth of the tech sector and positioning Riyadh as a global hub for innovation. If you’re a tech entrepreneur ready to take your startup to the next level, The Garage is where you belong. Join this transformative community today and become part of a movement that is shaping the future of technology and entrepreneurship.
April 28, 2024
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