TikTok, Blossom Launch Second SME Empowerment Program for AI-driven Startups in KSA, Offering Up to US$60,000 in Grants
The three-month accelerator program offers mentorship, funding support, and ecosystem access. Participants may receive up to US$60,000 in grants to implement their innovative solutions in the market.
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TikTok and Saudi-based investment and market-entry platform Blossom Accelerator have launched the second cohort of the TikTok x Blossom SME Empowerment Program to support AI-driven startups in Saudi Arabia.
The three-month accelerator program offers mentorship, funding support, and ecosystem access. Participants may receive up to US$60,000 in grants to implement their innovative solutions in the market.
“TikTok believes in the vital role that startups and SMEs play in driving innovation and economic growth,” said Dr. Hatem Samman, Executive Director of Government Relations and Public Policy at TikTok in Saudi Arabia. “Through our partnership with Blossom, we aim to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs in the Kingdom to leverage artificial intelligence to build innovative, scalable companies and contribute to the continued development of Saudi Arabia’s entrepreneurship ecosystem in line with Vision 2030.”
The second cohort will begin with an AI hackathon to identify promising teams. Meanwhile, interested founders can join the waitlist for the accelerator program ahead of official intake.
The hackathon and accelerator program are separate tracks, each offering distinct benefits.
“Through the TikTok x Blossom SME Empowerment Program, we are focused on equipping founders with the tools, mentorship, and ecosystem access they need to build scalable AI-driven businesses that can compete regionally and globally,” added Emon Shakoor, CEO of Blossom Accelerator. “Our goal is not only to support startups but to strengthen the broader innovation ecosystem that will power the Kingdom’s future digital economy.”
Strategic partners include Monsha’at and the Center of Digital Entrepreneurship (CODE) under the Ministry of Communications and Information Technology.
The inaugural cohort of the program supported 14 startups, generating US$840,000 in revenue growth and helping founders secure more than US$14 million in funding.
TikTok and Saudi-based investment and market-entry platform Blossom Accelerator have launched the second cohort of the TikTok x Blossom SME Empowerment Program to support AI-driven startups in Saudi Arabia.
The three-month accelerator program offers mentorship, funding support, and ecosystem access. Participants may receive up to US$60,000 in grants to implement their innovative solutions in the market.
“TikTok believes in the vital role that startups and SMEs play in driving innovation and economic growth,” said Dr. Hatem Samman, Executive Director of Government Relations and Public Policy at TikTok in Saudi Arabia. “Through our partnership with Blossom, we aim to empower the next generation of entrepreneurs in the Kingdom to leverage artificial intelligence to build innovative, scalable companies and contribute to the continued development of Saudi Arabia’s entrepreneurship ecosystem in line with Vision 2030.”
Entrepreneur Middle East Staff
Entrepreneur Staff
