Zain KSA, leading provider of telecommunications and digital services in Saudi Arabia, has announced the launch of the Zain Great Idea 2025 (ZGI 2025) technology startup accelerator. The initiative marks a significant step towards empowering the Saudi innovation ecosystem and enabling startups to compete in the region and globally.

ZGI 2025 supports Saudi Vision 2030 by promoting digital innovation and cultivating a knowledge-based economy. The program is designed to generate high-impact opportunities for founders, scale up their businesses, and connect them with global investment networks. This initiative reflects Zain KSA’s broader strategy to foster a digital economy and empower an innovative business ecosystem that contributes to the Kingdom’s sustainable tech-driven future.

For the first time, Saudi startups will be able to participate in a fully funded international acceleration program in Silicon Valley. The 14-day intensive program will bring together promising early-stage ventures from across the region to receive expert guidance from mentors, industry moguls, and corporate leaders through workshops, events, and one-on-one mentoring.

Commenting on the initiative, VP of Corporate Communications at Zain KSA,  Eman Abdullah Al-Saidi, said: “At Zain KSA, we believe empowering entrepreneurs and tech startups is a direct investment in the future of the Kingdom’s digital economy. Through ZGI 2025, we seek to build a resilient national ecosystem that cements the Kingdom’s position as a regional business and technology hub and provides Saudi startups with a unique opportunity to expand and compete globally. We are also proud to be collaborating with Zain Group, through its investment and tech arms, to connect innovative ideas with global expertise, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030’s goals of building a knowledge-based, sustainable digital economy.”
Zain Ventures, the investment arm of Zain Group, will provide the startups in the program with direct access to decision-makers, investors, and potential partners across global markets. ZainTECH, the Group’s regional digital solutions enterprise arm, will deliver advanced technical and strategic support, leveraging technologies such as cloud computing, AI, robotics, and smart analytics to drive scalable innovation.

Aspiring entrepreneurs and startups in Saudi Arabia can apply via zaingreatidea.com until  September 20, 2025. Shortlisted startups will undergo the bootcamp phase and receive intensive local training. A pitch event will be held where participants present to a judging panel to secure a place in the Silicon Valley accelerator. Upon return, participants will continue working with international and local mentors and prepare to present their progress to venture capitalists and potential investors. They will also explore partnership or investment opportunities with Zain’s technical and commercial departments across the region.