Riyadh – Sharikat Mubasher: The General Entertainment Authority (GEA) unveiled the third edition of its accelerator program, designed to foster entrepreneurship and align with Vision 2030’s goals of economic diversification.

According to the Saudi Press Agency, the 10-month initiative offers consulting, mentorship, and international exposure to participating startups, with a focus on strengthening the entertainment ecosystem, enhancing innovation, and attracting investment.

The program features two cohorts of 16 startups each, providing 192 hours of expert guidance, co-working spaces, and two international trips to explore global markets.

As the entertainment sector is projected to create 450,000 jobs and contribute 4.2% to Saudi Arabia’s GDP by 2030, the accelerator aims to empower startups to succeed in this growing industry.

Building on previous success, the inaugural 2023 program approved 14 projects after evaluating 260 registrations and offering workshops, mentorship, and investor connections. The second edition, launched in mid-2023, continued these efforts, helping startups navigate challenges and achieve growth.

This year’s accelerator maintains GEA’s broader vision of establishing Saudi Arabia as a regional entertainment hub. Tailored programs will address industry-specific challenges, preparing startups to thrive in an evolving market.