King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) has highlighted its national youth empowerment ecosystem, which includes more than 3,000 researchers, innovators and specialists, alongside support for over 90 deep-tech startups.
The initiative reflects KACST’s efforts to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s research, development and innovation landscape while contributing to the development of a knowledge-based economy.
Bridging the Gap From Laboratory to Market
KACST said it is building an integrated ecosystem connecting national laboratories with government entities, the private sector and investors.
The approach aims to accelerate the transformation of high-value research and innovative technologies into products and services capable of generating economic and social impact.
The ecosystem also supports the growth of advanced technologies and contributes to Saudi Vision 2030 objectives focused on economic diversification and strengthening the Kingdom’s knowledge and innovation economy.
More Than 21,700 Beneficiaries of Academy 32 Programs
In developing national talent, Academy 32 plays a key role in preparing and training young people through specialized programs covering research, development, innovation and future-focused fields.
More than 21,700 beneficiaries have participated in its programs to date, according to KACST.
The programs are designed to develop future skills and enhance the readiness of Saudi talent to contribute to rapidly expanding scientific and technology sectors.
Supporting Deep-Tech Startups
KACST’s ecosystem brings together more than 3,000 researchers, innovators and specialists, while supporting over 90 startups operating in deep technology sectors.
Deep tech is increasingly important for developing solutions based on advanced scientific research, engineering and emerging technologies, making startup support a key component of building a competitive national innovation ecosystem.
The Garage Turns Innovation Into Tech Companies
KACST also highlighted the role of The Garage, a platform dedicated to supporting entrepreneurs and technology startups.
The platform provides mentorship, training and business model development, as well as consulting in marketing, human resources and technology development. It also connects promising ventures with investors and private-sector partners.
More Than 600 Tech Startups Graduated
According to KACST, The Garage has helped graduate more than 600 technology startups, demonstrating its role in transforming innovative ideas into companies capable of growth and creating added value for the national economy.
The initiative also contributes to strengthening the Kingdom’s position as a regional hub for innovation, entrepreneurship and advanced technologies.
An Integrated Ecosystem for a Knowledge-Based Economy
KACST’s initiatives reflect an integrated approach to youth empowerment that begins with developing research and technical capabilities, progresses through innovation and entrepreneurship support, and ultimately helps transform research and ideas into competitive companies and market-ready products.
These efforts support the Kingdom’s broader ambitions to position knowledge, scientific research, innovation and advanced technologies as key drivers of sustainable economic development and the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030.
