Sanabil 500 MENA Seed Accelerator

The Sanabil 500 MENA Seed Accelerator is a strategic joint initiative between 500 Global (formerly 500 Startups), a renowned global venture capital firm and accelerator, and Sanabil Investments, a financial investment company wholly owned by Saudi Arabia's Public Investment Fund. Launched in 2021, this accelerator program is specifically designed to identify, nurture, and invest in high-growth technology startups across the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) region. Its primary objective is to bolster the burgeoning startup ecosystem in MENA by providing crucial early-stage capital, mentorship, and access to a global network.

The accelerator operates on a structured 12-week program, offering participating startups intensive training, workshops, and guidance from experienced mentors and industry experts. A key component of the program is its standardized investment terms: each selected startup typically receives an initial investment of $150,000 in exchange for a 7% equity stake, usually structured via a Simple Agreement for Future Equity (SAFE). This consistent approach ensures clarity and efficiency for founders. The initiative has an ambitious goal to invest in 100 startups over a three-year period, demonstrating a significant commitment to fostering innovation and entrepreneurship in the region.

By combining 500 Global's extensive experience in accelerator management and early-stage investing with Sanabil Investments' substantial financial backing and regional focus, the Sanabil 500 MENA Seed Accelerator plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the MENA tech landscape. It not only provides essential funding but also equips founders with the tools, knowledge, and connections necessary to scale their ventures globally. This partnership underscores a strategic effort to diversify economies and create a vibrant, self-sustaining innovation hub within the MENA region.