Applications Open for Riyada Tech Startup Accelerator
The program will conclude with an Investor Mixer, where participants can present their businesses to investors.
The Bahraini Labour Fund (Tamkeen) and Salica Investments (previously Hambro Perks) have announced the opening of applications for the second cohort of the Riyada Business Accelerator Program. The program is aimed at tech startups with minimum viable products (MVPs) or those nearing product launch.
Applications will remain open until December 4, 2025.
The program is open to startups in Bahrain with an active commercial registration (CR) or license, provided they have been operating for less than three years. Startups without a CR or license can also apply if they have a prototype and at least one Bahraini founder. Applicants must present a scalable, tech-based idea with potential for growth in various markets. They must also be committed to participating fully in the program, with at least one full-time founder available for all sessions and activities throughout its duration.
Participants will have access to industry leaders and mentorship opportunities to help them refine their business strategies and expand their networks. They will also engage with investors, develop financial plans, and prepare their businesses for investment. The program will assist in developing growth and commercialization strategies, including building a sales pipeline, marketing the product, and generating revenue. Additionally, startups will receive support in turning prototypes into market-ready products and advice on managing financials, from budgeting to forecasting.
The six-month program is divided into three phases: a one-week selection phase, during which promising startups are identified; a two-week discovery phase, in which the program is tailored to each startup’s needs, milestones are set, and mentors are assigned; and a 26-week advisory phase, which includes mentorship on product development, fundraising, and team-building.
The program is fully funded, meaning participants will not incur any costs.
Applications can be submitted through the program page on Tamkeen’s website.
In a statement, Zainab Khamis, managing director of the Riyada Business Accelerator Program, stated, "Our mission is to empower startups by providing them with the tools, knowledge, and connections they need to thrive in today's competitive landscape. We aim to create a thriving ecosystem where startups can benefit from tailored mentorship, engage with industry experts, and form valuable relationships with peers and investors. The growth and success of our participants are proof of the impact of our program, and we look forward to nurturing even more brilliant entrepreneurs in this new cohort."
In January, Tamkeen introduced the Riyada program to fortify the nation's startup landscape. Over the next three years, the program plans to back 36 enterprises in their incubation and acceleration endeavors. The program will assist these companies in securing funds and enhancing their team capabilities, facilitating their expansion on both local and international fronts.
