**Saudi Arabia’s AI Push: New Funding for Gulf Strategy Initiatives**
The British Embassy Riyadh is calling for concept notes under the Gulf Strategy Fund, with a focus on AI-driven projects that can boost economic growth and innovation in the Kingdom.
The funding, worth **£60,000 to £80,000**, is part of a broader push by Saudi Arabia to embed AI into its economy. The country’s Vision 2030 plan, launched in 2016, identifies AI as a key sector for growth and development. The Gulf Strategy Fund is one of several initiatives aimed at supporting startups, entrepreneurs, and small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) working on AI-related projects.
**Concept Notes Due by July 17th**
Eligible applicants must submit their concept notes by July 17th, 2026, to be considered for funding. These notes should outline a project idea that aligns with the Gulf Strategy Fund’s objectives, including:
* Supporting the growth of AI-driven industries
* Enhancing the Kingdom’s economic competitiveness
* Developing a skilled workforce with expertise in AI and related technologies
The selected projects are expected to be completed by November 2026, with a budget of **£60,000 to £80,000**. This funding will support the development of innovative solutions, proof-of-concepts, and pilot projects that can demonstrate the potential of AI to drive economic growth and transformation in Saudi Arabia.
**What this means**
This funding opportunity reflects the Saudi government’s commitment to leveraging AI to drive economic growth and innovation. For entrepreneurs and startups working on AI-related projects, this funding can provide a much-needed boost to help them prototype and test their ideas. As the Kingdom continues to invest in AI and related technologies, we can expect to see more innovative applications of AI in industries such as healthcare, finance, and transportation.
