Social Development Bank to Host DeveGo 2025 Entrepreneurship Forum in Riyadh
The Social Development Bank (SDB) will launch the second edition of its DeveGo 2025 entrepreneurship forum from December 21 to 23 at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh. The three-day event operates under the theme “Don’t start from zero… start from DeveGo” and will convene entrepreneurs, investors, and innovation leaders.
Minister of Human Resources and Social Development Eng. Ahmed bin Sulaiman Alrajhi, who chairs SDB’s Board of Directors, will patron the forum, according to the bank’s announcement on December 17.
Key Takeaways
- DeveGo 2025 runs December 21-23 in Riyadh with expected 25,000 visitors
- Features international speakers including UNCTAD Secretary-General Rebeca Grynspan
- NEXT UP Challenge showcases 20 startups to investors and industry experts
- New financial products for entrepreneurs to be announced during the event
International Speakers Join DeveGo 2025 Forum
The entrepreneurship forum will feature speakers from international organizations and the private sector. Rebeca Grynspan, Secretary-General of the United Nations Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD), will participate alongside futurist Ian Khan and Jonathan Greechan, CEO of the Founder Institute.
Additionally, local entrepreneurs, government officials, and investors will contribute to panel discussions and workshops throughout the event.
Startup Competitions and Investment Opportunities
The DeveGo 2025 entrepreneurship forum includes multiple competitions for Saudi startups. The NEXT UP Challenge will enable 20 startups to present their projects to a panel of specialists. On the third day, entrepreneurs can connect with more than 50 local investors.
Furthermore, the forum will host the DeveGo Handicrafts Competition, recognizing small enterprises that have demonstrated economic and social impact. The Salam Award for Promising Projects, organized with Saudi Telecom Integrated Company (Salam), encourages entrepreneurs to present their ventures on social media platforms.
Three Knowledge Tracks Structure Forum Content
DeveGo 2025 organizes content across three thematic zones. The Inspiration Zone focuses on modern technologies and the creative economy. Meanwhile, the Growth Zone covers business models, flexible work arrangements, franchising, and business development.
The Entrepreneurship Zone addresses future economic trends, venture capital, and sustainability. More than 50 consultants and experts will deliver workshops and advisory sessions across these tracks.
New Financial Products for Saudi Entrepreneurs
The Social Development Bank will announce new financial products designed for entrepreneurs and startups during the forum. The bank will also sign strategic agreements and partnerships aimed at supporting entrepreneurial ventures.
However, specific details about the financial products, including eligibility criteria and funding amounts, were not disclosed in the announcement.
What’s Next
The forum aligns with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 objectives to diversify the economy and strengthen the entrepreneurship ecosystem. As a result, the event supports national efforts to increase SME contribution to GDP and create employment opportunities for Saudi citizens.
Registration details and the complete agenda are expected to be available on the Social Development Bank’s official channels ahead of the December 21 opening.
