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Startup & Scaleup
Program

 


Calling the world’s most innovative founders. From 31 August–3 September 2026 LEAP brings together the global startup ecosystem in Riyadh.

 

Whether you are looking to exhibit and scale your startup or connect, network and explore your next move, there are two clear ways to take part in the Startup & Scaleup Program.

 

ROCKET FUEL APPLICATIONS HAVE CLOSED

 

Pre-register for 2027, or purchase a Founder pass to explore and network instead. 

2500+
APPLICATIONS
$693 Million
TOTAL FUNDS RAISED
725+
STARTUPS AND SCALEUPS
60+
COUNTRIES
50+
SECTORS
1600+
MEETINGS

BECOME A LEAP STARTUP

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Startup Pod

Designed for startups looking to exhibit, pitch and raise visibility on the show floor. This is the route for teams actively fundraising, selling or expanding into new markets.

What you get:

  • A dedicated startup pod on LEAP’s busy show floor
  • Brand exposure to 200,000+ attendees
  • Access to investors, enterprises and government stakeholders
  • Eligibility to apply for Rocket Fuel, LEAP’s flagship startup pitch competition
  • Access to Ecosystem Xchange sessions
  • Private, AI-powered gated matchmaking and white-glove meeting concierge
  • Exclusive 90-minute pitch coaching workshop
  • Startup exhibitor passes for your team

Best for:

Startups looking to actively showcase their product, meet customers, pitch to investors and scale visibility at LEAP.

 

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Founder Pass

Designed for individual founders and startup leaders who want to network, hire, acquire and explore what’s next, without exhibiting on the show floor. This is a new ticket option, introduced for LEAP’s 5th edition, offering access to the startup ecosystem without a physical presence.

What you get:

  • Access to investors, enterprises and government stakeholders
  • Private, AI-powered matchmaking with relevant founders, investors and operators
  • Access to Ecosystem Xchange sessions and curated meetups
  • Inclusion in the Founder Directory, visible to registered investors and ecosystem partners
  • Visibility and credibility as part of a program accessed by 0.5% of LEAP attendees

What’s not included

  • No physical startup pod
  • No exhibiting or brand presence on the show floor
  • No team passes included
  • No on-floor lead capture or exhibitor visibility

Best for:

Founders attending as individuals, looking to connect, explore opportunities and build relationships across the ecosystem.

startup sectors

  • Agriculture and Food Technology

  • Health and Wellness

  • Finance and Investment

  • Sustainability & Energy

  • Aerospace, Security & Defence

  • Smart Infrastructure, Transport & Logistics

  • Advanced Manufacturing, Real Estate & Construction

  • Media, Culture and Entertainment

  • AI, Deep Tech & Frontier Science

  • Future of Work & Living

  • + MORE

STARTUP STORIES

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“In attending just two LEAP events, I’ve learned so much. It’s a one stop solution, to meeting incredible founders, partners, investors and customers all under one roof across a few days. Everyone is incredibly friendly and focused on growth. I highly recommend LEAP for those looking to grow their business in a short period of time within an awesome community of people.”

Rebecka Zavaleta

CEO AND CO-FOUNDER, Paismo (Pakistan/USA)

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“Leap facilitated the access to a great market where we see great opportunities. The plan is to open up an office in Saudi Arabia very soon”

Mo Bekdache

CO-FOUNDER , Beam AI (USA)

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"LEAP has been a transformative for Lisan.
 
It gave us a platform to showcase our AI innovations, connect with the right partners, and accelerate our growth. The energy, opportunities, and collaborations we found at the event have played a big role in our journey, helping us expand our impact across the region and beyond."

Noor Alasadi

CEO, Lisan AI (KSA) 

(Winner of Shooting Star Award 2025)