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AIM (Artificial Intelligence Make)

AIM (Artificial Intelligence Make)

Provides Saudi organizations with AI infrastructure access, talent development, industrial challenge programs, and venture scaling support.

OpenNational Technology Development ProgramSaudi ArabiaDeep-tech · core fit

AIM (Artificial Intelligence Make) is the National Technology Development Program's flagship AI initiative in Saudi Arabia, designed to build the country's AI infrastructure, workforce, and commercial ecosystem through a coordinated combination of resource access, talent development, and venture-building support. The program is delivered in partnership with SDAIA (Saudi Data and AI Authority), King Abdulaziz University (KAU), and the Ministry of Communications (MOC).

Published program targets include developing 20 to 25 AI models aligned with national priorities, creating 30 to 50 AI-native solutions for industrial and government partners, graduating 800 to 1,000 skilled AI and machine learning professionals, and establishing or attracting 80 to 100 AI-native ventures to the Saudi market. Support is primarily non-cash in nature, encompassing access to R&D infrastructure, computational resources, industrial challenge datasets, and venture-building pathways. For-profit companies, nonprofits, universities, and research organizations based in Saudi Arabia are eligible; individual applicants are not.

AIM does not offer a direct cash award or grant — qualifying participants receive access to program infrastructure, mentorship, and go-to-market support rather than a monetary disbursement. Organizations targeting AI commercialization in Saudi Arabia should contact NTDP directly to confirm current registration status and intake timelines, as the program operates on a managed cohort model that may not be continuously open.

Non-cash AI infrastructure and venture-building support for Saudi-based organizations, targeting development of 80–100 AI-native ventures and 20–25 AI models aligned with national priorities.

CycleiHow often this grant runs — e.g. annually, on a rolling basis, or a one-off call.Rolling
Next deadlineiThe next date applications are due. Rolling means you can apply any time.Rolling
Decision timeiTypical time from the deadline to the funder's decision.—
Project durationiHow long the funded work is expected to run.—
Award typeiThe form of funding — grant, equity, loan, tax credit, etc.In-kind assistance
Match fundingiThe share of project costs you must cover yourself. 0% = fully funded.0%
Funding pooliThe total budget available across all awards in this round.—

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Last verified: 29 Jun 2026Source: ntdp.gov.sa