Wa’ed

Wa’ed is the entrepreneurship arm of Saudi Aramco, established in 2011 to foster a thriving ecosystem by nurturing and investing in innovative entrepreneurs. The center offers a comprehensive suite of services, including venture capital funding, business incubation, and access to a vast network of resources, aiming to convert early-stage startups into successful small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs).

With a venture capital fund of $500 million, Wa’ed Ventures focuses on investing in local tech-based startups and localizing pioneering global innovations. The fund provides investments up to $20 million per deal, targeting sectors such as sustainability, digitalization, social innovation, manufacturing, and industrial. In addition to financial support, Wa’ed offers a 12-month business incubation program that includes mentorship, training, office space, and networking opportunities to accelerate the growth of its portfolio companies.

Since its inception, Wa’ed has been instrumental in supporting over 50 companies, investing more than $100 million in venture capital deals. Its strategic initiatives, such as the Taleed program, aim to accelerate the growth of SMEs by providing targeted support and resources, thereby contributing significantly to the economic diversification and development of Saudi Arabia's entrepreneurial landscape.