SparkLabs Saudi Arabia Launches Twenty Million Dollar Venture Capital Fund to Support Local and International Founders in Riyadh

SparkLabs Saudi Arabia has officially unveiled SparkLabs KSU Fund I, a $20 million venture capital fund aimed at empowering high-potential founders both locally and internationally who are building and scaling from Saudi Arabia.

The fund represents a strategic push to strengthen the Kingdom’s growing tech and innovation ecosystem while providing a launchpad for startups to reach global markets.

The fund received an anchor investment from Riyadh Valley Company (RVC), the investment arm of King Saud University, highlighting strong institutional backing for early-stage ventures.

SparkLabs KSU Fund I is designed to invest across pre-seed, seed, and Series A stages, with a priority on Saudi-founded startups and ventures emerging from the King Saud University ecosystem.

Notably, up to 20% of the fund will be reserved for international founders who commit to localizing and scaling their operations within Saudi Arabia.

Supporting Founders Beyond Capital

The $20 million fund is not just about funding.

SparkLabs plans to provide strategic support, mentorship, and access to a global network, helping founders accelerate product development, market entry, and international expansion.

This approach mirrors SparkLabs’ global model, which emphasizes hands-on support alongside financial backing.

SparkLabs KSU Fund I will complement the existing SparkLabs – KSU accelerator program, which provides operational guidance, mentorship, and network connections to early-stage entrepreneurs.

The accelerator program is also supported by the National Technology Development Program (NTDP), reflecting a coordinated effort to strengthen the Kingdom’s innovation ecosystem.

A Global Player in Venture Capital

Founded in 2013, SparkLabs Group has built a global network of startup accelerators and venture capital funds with operations in Asia, the Middle East, Australia, and the U.S.

To date, SparkLabs has invested in over 600 companies across six continents, generating a combined post-money valuation exceeding $56 billion.

The firm has co-invested with major global tech companies and investors, with portfolio companies spanning AI, deep tech, enterprise software, and digital platforms.

SparkLabs’ international footprint, including active operations in Saudi Arabia, Korea, Taiwan, Australia, and the United States, enables its portfolio companies to scale globally while maintaining strong local foundations.

Why This Fund Matters

Saudi Arabia has been aggressively diversifying its economy and fostering a vibrant startup ecosystem.

By launching SparkLabs KSU Fund I, the Kingdom strengthens its ability to retain entrepreneurial talent, attract international startups, and accelerate homegrown innovation.

Founders now have access to funding, mentorship, and global networks without leaving the country.

The fund also signals a commitment to bridging local talent with international opportunities, encouraging startups from abroad to anchor themselves in Saudi Arabia while tapping into its rapidly expanding market and resources.

What’s Next?

SparkLabs KSU Fund I will start reviewing potential investments immediately, focusing on startups with scalable ideas in technology-driven sectors.

With pre-seed, seed, and Series A funding available, founders can anticipate a combination of capital injections, mentorship programs, and global network access.

The fund’s activity will also be closely integrated with the SparkLabs – KSU accelerator, meaning selected companies may receive both funding and hands-on support, increasing their chances of successful product launches and international expansion.

As SparkLabs continues to expand its footprint in Saudi Arabia, the fund could become a cornerstone of the Kingdom’s startup ecosystem, attracting both local and international entrepreneurs.

Summary

SparkLabs Saudi Arabia has launched SparkLabs KSU Fund I, a $20 million venture capital fund backed by Riyadh Valley Company and King Saud University.

The fund will invest in pre-seed, seed, and Series A startups, prioritizing Saudi-founded ventures while allocating up to 20% to international founders committed to operating in the Kingdom.

SparkLabs will provide funding, strategic support, and access to its global network, complementing the SparkLabs – KSU accelerator program supported by the NTDP.

With a proven track record across six continents and investments in over 600 companies, SparkLabs aims to strengthen Saudi Arabia’s innovation ecosystem and help startups scale globally.