500 Global and Sanabil Investments have unveiled the 11th cohort of their regional accelerator, selecting eight startups for the latest programme. The initiative continues a long-running partnership that aims to support early-stage founders across the Middle East and North Africa through mentorship, operational guidance and investor access.
The new cohort reflects the continued role of accelerator programmes in building the region’s startup pipeline. While the available announcement confirms that eight startups joined the latest batch, it does not disclose further details on the participating companies or sectors. Even so, the programme reinforces the position of Saudi Arabia as a key hub for startup development, supported by institutional capital and ecosystem-building initiatives.
Sanabil Investments, a wholly owned company of Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund, has expanded its presence across venture capital through partnerships with global fund managers and startup programmes. Meanwhile, 500 Global continues to deepen its regional footprint by working with founders at the earliest stages and connecting them with follow-on investors.
As venture funding becomes more selective across MENA, structured accelerator programmes remain an important source of founder support. Beyond early capital, they help startups refine products, strengthen commercial execution and build relationships with regional and international investors.
Why it matters
The latest cohort highlights the continued commitment of global venture firms and Saudi-backed institutions to early-stage innovation. Although funding conditions remain disciplined across many markets, ecosystem programmes continue to expand the pipeline of investment-ready companies. This supports long-term startup formation, strengthens founder talent and reinforces Saudi Arabia’s role in attracting entrepreneurial activity across the wider MENA region.
Key figures
- Programme: 500 Global and Sanabil accelerator
- Latest cohort: 11th
- Startups selected: 8
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