Startup Nest

Eligibility Criteria

Who Should Apply?

We accept early-stage technology startups including:

Validation Stage
Prototype Stage
MVP Stage
Early Traction Stage

Preferred Industries

Artificial Intelligence
DeepTech
Logistics & Supply Chain
EnergyTech & Sustainability

Is the program in-person, remote, or hybrid?

Startup Nest is conducted in person at Growth Hub in Al Khobar, Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia.

What Founders Receive

Market Access & Growth
Hands-on Venture Support
Resources & Ecosystem Access
Capital & Investment Readiness

(Milestone and selection dependent)

Eligible startups may receive an initial investment through Startup Nest's cohort-based funding model, typically ranging from SAR 80,000–100,000 in exchange for 3%–8% equity.

In addition to the initial cohort investment, selected startups demonstrating exceptional execution, traction, and milestone achievement may be considered for follow-on investment as they continue to scale.

Eligibility Criteria

This program is open to Saudi nationals and GCC nationals. Founders must be at least 18 years of age at the time of application.
Founding teams of 2–4 members are preferred; exceptional solo founders may be considered.
At least one team member with technical capability is strongly preferred.
The founding team must have an agreed-upon equity ownership structure prior to acceptance.
At least one founder must be actively engaged throughout the program and responsible for attending sessions and meeting program milestones.
Founders must be coachable and adaptable, willing to take feedback seriously and act on it quickly.
Applicants must be willing and eligible to establish a legal entity in Saudi Arabia.
Applicants will be mandatorily required to be based in the Eastern Province, Saudi Arabia, during the 4-month program period and to commit to establishing and actively operating the startup there.
Startups must comply with all applicable laws and regulations in Saudi Arabia and must not operate in restricted or prohibited sectors.
Founders (at least one partner) should be able to communicate in English at a functional level for program participation and collaboration.

Building and Scaling Early-Stage Startups

Startup Nest is a venture-building accelerator for early-stage technology founders. Through a structured 4-month program, founders work alongside experienced operators, mentors, and industry partners to validate, build, and scale companies with real market potential.

Acceleration Program

Structured 4-month venture-building journey
Milestone-based support and founder accountability
Focused on validation, execution, and growth

We Co-Build

Hands-on support from experienced startup operators
Assistance across product, operations, and go-to-market activities
Execution-focused guidance throughout the program

Market Validation

Test assumptions and reduce uncertainty
Refine your solution based on market feedback
Build confidence in your business model

Strategic Partnerships

Access industry relationships
Connect with ecosystem stakeholders
Open pathways to new opportunities

Your Guide to
Startup Nest

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Who can apply to the program?

Tech startups from any industry, whether at the idea stage or with an early MVP, looking for support to build, launch, and grow their business.

Is the program in-person, remote, or hybrid?

Startup Nest’s program is currently held in person at our Bahrain location, with plans to expand to Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province.

Eligibility Criteria

The idea must be technology based or tech-enabled, aiming to leverage digital tools, software, hardware, or emerging technologies to solve a real problem.
You should have a business or product in at least the early stages.
Teams of 2-4 members are preferred, though exceptional solo founders may also be considered.
Teams with technical expertise are encouraged to apply, but strong concepts are also welcome.
At least one founder should be available to participate full-time or dedicate substantial time to training, mentorship, and deliverables.
Founders should demonstrate genuine commitment and ambition to grow their venture beyond the program.
Applicants must be willing to establish operations in Bahrain.

Eligibility Criteria

Who Should Apply?

Preferred Industries

Is the program in-person, remote, or hybrid?

What Founders Receive

Eligibility Criteria

Catalyzing Tomorrow’s Innovators Today

Building and Scaling Early-Stage Startups

Acceleration Program

We Co-Build

Market Validation

Strategic Partnerships

Your Guide toStartup Nest

Who can apply to the program?

Is the program in-person, remote, or hybrid?

Eligibility Criteria

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Your Guide to
Startup Nest