Saudi Arabia is set to host the World Cup for Entrepreneurship (EWC), featuring 100 startups from around the globe. The event offers a total prize pool of $1 million, along with various non-monetary rewards, aiming to attract pioneering projects.
The event is organized by the Saudi General Authority for Small and Medium Enterprises (Monsha’at) in collaboration with the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Foundation (Misk) and the Global Entrepreneurship Network (GEN). It will take place during the Biban 24 forum in Riyadh from November 5 to 9 under the theme “A Global Destination for Opportunities.”
The finalists were selected from over 16,000 applicants from 151 countries. These top 100 startups emerged after excelling in their national competitions and participating in a global boot camp that brought together the best 250 companies with experts and supporting entities.
Sami bin Ibrahim Al-Hussaini, Governor of Monsha’at, stated that hosting the EWC in Riyadh underscores the significance of entrepreneurship as a cornerstone of the Saudi economy. The event aims to make a positive impact both locally and globally by equipping enterprises and entrepreneurs with the necessary tools to build a prosperous future.
Founded in 2019 by the Prince Mohammed bin Salman Foundation (Misk) and the Global Entrepreneurship Network, the EWC has seen participation from over 420,000 entrepreneurs from 200 countries, with total financial awards amounting to $4 million. The competition serves as a key driver for attracting investments, highlighting promising opportunities in the Kingdom, enabling entrepreneurs, fostering partnerships, providing networking opportunities with investors and potential partners, and translating ideas into successful projects.
