Riyadh, December 23, 2024 – The Research, Development, and Innovation Authority (RDIA) has announced the launch of the Saudi Innovation Grants Program (SIGP) in collaboration with the National Technology Development Program (NTDP). This initiative aims to empower startups, small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), and entrepreneurs to transform ideas and research into innovative solutions that address national challenges. The program focuses on four strategic priorities: Health and Wellness, Sustainable Environment and Essential Needs, Energy and Industrial Leadership, and Economies of the Future.
The SIGP provides sustainable funding to enhance the role of SMEs in achieving the Kingdom’s research and innovation goals. It aims to strengthen private-sector participation in the innovation ecosystem by enabling the development of impactful technological solutions that support economic diversification and create job opportunities. By prioritizing economic feasibility and innovation, the program encourages collaboration among SMEs, research centers, and universities while offering open access to Saudi Arabia’s research infrastructure.
A unique feature of the program is that grants are offered without requiring ownership rights or intellectual property concessions. Additionally, the program supports the commercialization of scientific research and patents, contributing to the development of a knowledge-based economy by transforming research into viable products and solutions.
The program targets three main applicant categories: independent startups and SMEs with in-house research and development capabilities, collaborative SMEs working with academic institutions, and academic entrepreneurs focused on commercializing intellectual property. By supporting these groups, the program fosters an environment of innovation, enabling the creation of new technologies to address pressing challenges and drive national progress.
The Saudi Innovation Grants Program focuses on critical areas such as developing innovative healthcare solutions and personalized medicine under Health and Wellness. It emphasizes sustainable approaches to ensuring water, food, and energy security under Sustainable Environment and Essential Needs. Energy and Industrial Leadership supports advancements in energy technologies, hydrocarbons, and industrial innovations. Economies of the Future highlights enabling smart cities, space exploration, and cutting-edge digital technologies.
The program unfolds in two phases: the Proof of Concept phase develops technical ideas to demonstrate feasibility and readiness for implementation, while the Proof of Value phase focuses on building functional prototypes to test commercial viability and market impact.
The RDIA has invited startups, SMEs, and researchers to submit proposals through the Saudi Innovation Grants Program portal at [https://saudiminds.rdia.gov.sa/account/sigp-about](https://saudiminds.rdia.gov.sa/account/sigp-about). Proposals must meet eligibility criteria and align with the program’s standards to qualify for funding.