Sanabil Accelerator
by Orbit
The premier market entry and investment pre-seed program for exceptional founders in MENA
About the Pre-Seed Program
Pre-Seed Program Details
Sanabil Accelerator by Orbit Startups is a 4-month accelerator pre-seed program for tech startups that equips high-potential builders with training, mentorship, and investment to scale products in Middle East and North Africa.
Who is it for?
We’re keen on hearing from startups that meet the following criteria:
- Tech startups that can showcase a Minimum Viable Product (MVP)
- Startups that want to build a nexus in MENA through Saudi Arabia
- Founders that are committed to their venture full-time
- Able to travel to Saudi Arabia to participate in the in-person segments of the 4-month cohort
About Sanabil
Sanabil Investments
Sanabil Investments is a financial investment company wholly owned by the Public Investment Fund (PIF) that commits more than USD 3 billion in capital annually into global private investments, including VC/growth and small buyout assets.
Program Timeline
PROGRAM: WEEKS 1-3
Phase 1: Develop a Working Foundation
Kickoff, Onboarding & Storytelling Fundamentals
Get ready to dive in! The first phase of our program is all about setting a strong foundation for success. During these three weeks, you’ll work with our expert team to refine your startup’s purpose and set clear goals. We’ll cover:
- Onboarding & Goal Setting: Get acquainted with the program, your cohort, and set actionable milestones.
- Storytelling Basics: Learn how to craft a compelling narrative around your venture to attract investors and customers.
- Intro to Doing Business in Saudi Arabia: Gain insights into the Saudi market landscape, regulations, and opportunities to help you navigate this growing economy effectively.
- Meet Key Players in the Ecosystem: Connect with influential figures in the startup ecosystem, including, mentors, and partners who can help fuel your growth.
PROGRAM: WEEKS 4-7
Phase 2: Market Validation & Questioning Assumptions
Business Model Validation & Introduction to Fundraising
Through interactive sessions, you’ll work to continuously validate your business model and set up the groundwork for fundraising. Topics include:
- Customer Persona Building: Hone in on your target audience and create detailed personas.
- Customer Interviews: Gain valuable insights through direct customer feedback.
- Competitor Analysis: Learn how to position yourself effectively in a competitive market.
- Introduction to Fundraising: Understand the fundamentals of the fundraising process, including types of funding, stages of investment, and preparing to pitch to investors.
PROGRAM: WEEKS 8-12
Phase 3: Accelerate Your Product
Product Development, Growth & Traction
It’s time to build momentum. This phase is all about refining your product and setting up key growth and traction strategies. You’ll also start working on your investment materials:
- UI/UX Refinement: Polish your product’s user interface and user experience.
- Growth Experiments: Implement small, data-driven tests to boost engagement and reach.
- Investment Deck & Financial Model: Build a powerful pitch deck and a solid financial model to present to investors.
PROGRAM: WEEKS 13-16
Phase 4: Perfect Your Pitch
Pitch Development & Investor Feedback
Now, let’s bring it all together. This final phase is designed to get you pitch-ready with direct feedback and practice:
- Pitch Clinics: Receive personalized guidance from seasoned mentors to refine your presentation.
- Investor Feedback: Polish your pitch with direct, no holds barred feedback from VCs, preparing you to raise money confidently.
Frequently Asked Questions
What startups qualify for this program?
This accelerator is designed for tech startups that have a working MVP and full-time founders who are willing to dedicate the requisite time to engaging in the full curriculum of the program. Successful applicants may be selected as early as the MVP stage with little to no traction or as late as the growth stage.
How long is the program?
Each cohort is 4 months long.
How much time do I need to spend in Saudi Arabia during this program?
Founders are required to be present in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia during Weeks 1-4 and Weeks 8-12 of the accelerator cohort.
Are there any fees associated with this program?
No, there are no fees for participating in this program.
Will this program invest in my startup?
Yes, the accelerator will invest USD $80,000 – 100,000 in every startup we induct into an acceleration cohort.
Will this program help me raise more external funding?
Yes, every cohort will result in a Demo Day event that attracts regional venture capitalists, angel investors, and family offices.
When is the application deadline?
Applications for Cohort 2 will close on March 31, 2025.
What level of English proficiency is required for program participants?
The entire program will be conducted in English. Founders will need to possess a strong command of speaking, reading, and writing in English.
How many team members from one startup are expected to join the program?
All of the founders must participate in each program session. Startups are also permitted to include two additional team members.