A new accelerator programme set up by Saudi Arabia’s King Abdulaziz City for Science and Technology (KACST) and the World Economic Forum (WEF) aims to support efforts to drive innovation in the kingdom.

Based on the new programme, the state-backed KACST will work with WEF to “connect experts and knowledge partners from the public and private sector to identify and unlock new promising markets as part of the ongoing work to transform Saudi’s economy”, according to a statement. 

Saudi Arabia has plans to build a virtual “house” in the village, thus opening a door to opportunities, investment and collaboration among national stakeholders and international entities. It will host events and other activities that promote interaction and knowledge sharing. 

Early this year, WEF announced plans to set up the Global Collaboration Village to promote public-private cooperation and tackle the world’s most pressing challenges. 

(Reporting by Cleofe Maceda; editing by Daniel Luiz) 

Cleofe.maceda@lseg.com