KAUST (King Abdullah University) · · Program format: Incubator
TAQADAM Startup Accelerator
TAQADAM is a startup accelerator founded in 2016 by King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST), powered by the networks of KAUST and Saudi Awwal Bank (SAB). Each cohort runs six months, starting with a one-month virtual bootcamp, and combines mentorship, workshops and funding: teams receive $40,000 in non-dilutive funding, 10 startups secure additional follow-on funding of $100,000 at the annual showcase, and the site says accepted startups receive up to $140,000. It is open to applicants of all nationalities, and more than 800 applications arrive each year. Applications open once a year through the TAQADAM site, and the next cycle typically opens after the active cohort concludes. Applications for Cohort 10 closed on 5 July 2026 after a two-week extension.
Who can apply
- Funding
- Eligibility · Location
No separate eligibility or location fields are recorded. Check the program summary and the funder's terms.
Funding classification
- Instrument · Capital form · Allocation method · Selection
No separate instrument, capital form, allocation method or selection fields are recorded. Check the program summary and the funder's terms.
Round history
| Round | Window | Size | Source |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cohort 10 applications | Deadline: July 5, 2026Closed | $40,000 funding per team; up to $140,000 with follow-on | thelens.kaust.edu.sa |
Past rounds stay on the page, so you can see how often this program opens.
Funding evidence
Detailed funding records are not yet recorded for this program.
Read the program’s recorded facts and sourcesSources
Awards
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