Monshaat

University Project Acceleration

Monsha’at, in collaboration with its global partner "Creda," launched three intensive acceleration programs for university-affiliated startups. These programs aimed to foster the growth of startup projects led by university entrepreneurs in the Kingdom. They were implemented in three different regions (Riyadh, Makkah, Eastern Province) and extended over a period of 12 weeks.

Objectives

Spreading the culture of entrepreneurship within universities.

Supporting high-potential university projects and helping them grow into high-growth startups.

Increasing access to local and international markets.

Raising capabilities by drawing on global expertise.

Providing rewarding and sustainable job opportunities for Saudi youth.

University Project Acceleration Program in Numbers

62 entrepreneurs

Accelerators: 3

Regions: 3

Over 825 business development sessions

Over 23 investment rounds

Over 900 specialized hours

Revenue growth rate exceeded 300%

Over 399 new job opportunities

Access Conditions

The applicant must be a university student, a recent graduate, a member of university staff, or affiliated with the institution.
A minimum viable product (MVP) with promising results for the initial and current beta releases, as a minimum.
If the project already exists in the market, it must be no more than three years old.
The project must include a technical component.
Full-time commitment to the program for 12 weeks.
A team capable of implementing the project.
The team must have the relevant experience to manage and monitor the project.
Sufficient and verifiable project information, particularly on the technical, marketing and financial aspects.
An opportunity must exist in the target market, with a competitive advantage that enables the project to grow and add economic value.

FAQ

The accelerators are held in Riyadh, Makkah and the Eastern Province.

No, the program is free of charge.

No, applications are open to all students, graduates and staff of all universities in the region.

Yes, the program targets owners of existing projects and, at a minimum, owners of a minimum viable product (MVP).

It is held in person and virtually, according to each stage and each program.

Yes, the participant must attend the full accelerator period, either in person at the headquarters or virtually, and adhere to the schedule and programs for the full three months without delays or absences.