How 7startup Helps Series A & B Startups Succeed in Saudi Arabia with VCaaS

Expanding into new markets can be a daunting challenge for startups, particularly those in their growth phases. Saudi Arabia, with its rapidly growing tech ecosystem and immense opportunities, offers fertile ground for expansion.

However, many startups shy away due to unfamiliar regulatory landscapes and cultural differences. That’s where 7startup comes in. Through our innovative Venture Capital as a Service (VCaaS) model, we help Series A and B startups from the UK, EU, and US not just enter the Saudi market but thrive as market leaders.

What is Venture Capital as a Service (VCaaS)?

When most people think of venture capital, they picture financial backing and little else. But funding alone is often not enough, especially when entering a complex and unfamiliar market like Saudi Arabia. VCaaS is our answer to this problem. It’s a hybrid model that combines the financial muscle of venture capital with practical, on-the-ground operational support.

With VCaaS, we don’t just fund your startup; we roll up our sleeves and work alongside you. From developing market entry strategies to building local partnerships and managing regulatory compliance, we handle the operational hurdles that often hold startups back. Our approach ensures that your business is set up for long-term success, not just a quick market entry.

VCaaS bridges the gap between having a great product and turning that product into a revenue-generating powerhouse in a new market. It’s about ensuring that every step, from market entry to scaling, is executed seamlessly.

Why Saudi Arabia is the Perfect Market for Startups

Saudi Arabia is undergoing a massive transformation driven by its Vision 2030 initiative, which aims to diversify the country’s economy and reduce its reliance on oil. This has created a wealth of opportunities in sectors like technology, artificial intelligence (AI), deep tech, and sustainability. The government is actively supporting innovation, offering incentives to foreign businesses and fostering a pro-business environment.

For startups, this means access to a rapidly growing market with high demand for innovative solutions. Industries like AI, Net Zero technologies, and health tech are particularly ripe for disruption. In addition, Saudi Arabia’s young, tech-savvy population is hungry for cutting-edge products and services.

Despite these opportunities, many Western startups overlook Saudi Arabia due to its perceived complexities. Regulatory hurdles, cultural differences, and logistical challenges can be intimidating. However, with the right guidance and support, these obstacles can be easily overcome, making Saudi Arabia one of the most lucrative markets for ambitious startups.

How 7startup’s Approach is Different

While most venture capital firms provide funding and little else, 7startup takes a comprehensive, hands-on approach. Our VCaaS model is designed to offer more than just capital.

Our hybrid approach is unique because it focuses on both financial and operational growth. We help you navigate the complexities of the Saudi market, build relationships with key stakeholders, and create a sustainable growth strategy. By combining funding with hands-on support, we offer a solution that goes beyond traditional venture capital and maximizes your chances of success.

We don’t just fund your journey — we actively participate in it. From day one, our team works closely with you to understand your goals and align them with the opportunities in Saudi Arabia. This partnership model allows us to provide tailored solutions that fit your specific needs.

The Benefits of 7startup’s VCaaS Model

1. Easier Access to Big Companies and Government

In Saudi Arabia, relationships matter. Accessing major corporations or government sectors can be challenging without the right connections. At 7startup, we leverage our established network to get your foot in the door. Our strong ties with key players in the private and public sectors enable us to connect your startup with decision-makers who can drive your business forward.

Whether it’s securing pilot projects or landing long-term contracts, we ensure that your startup gets the attention it deserves from top-tier clients.

2. Proven Strategies for Success

Entering a new market is risky, especially one as dynamic as Saudi Arabia. We’ve developed proven methodologies for establishing proof-of-concept (POC) projects. These strategies are tailored to ensure quick wins and long-term success. By launching POCs, we validate your product’s potential in the local market, paving the way for broader adoption.

With our expertise, you’ll avoid common pitfalls and fast-track your market expansion.

3. Long-Term Growth

Sustainability is key to long-term success. That’s why we don’t just focus on short-term gains. Once your POC is successful, we work with you to establish long-term partnerships. These could take the form of joint ventures, distribution agreements, or even setting up local operations. This ensures that your growth in Saudi Arabia is steady and sustainable.

Our 3-Step Process for Success

Step 1: Research and Planning

Every successful market entry starts with thorough research. We conduct an in-depth analysis of the Saudi market, including direct interviews with local decision-makers. This helps us understand market demand, competition, and how your product fits into the local ecosystem.

Our research ensures that you’re not entering the market blindly. Instead, you’ll have a clear strategy based on real-world data and insights.

Step 2: Quick Market Entry

Speed matters, especially in a fast-growing market like Saudi Arabia. Within six months, we’ll help you launch a proof-of-concept (POC). This involves testing your product with real customers, gaining valuable feedback, and proving its value to potential clients.

By achieving a successful POC quickly, we position your startup for rapid growth and contract acquisition.

Step 3: Long-Term Growth

After the POC phase, we focus on building long-term relationships. This could mean setting up a joint venture, signing distribution agreements, or establishing local operations. Our goal is to ensure that your business continues to grow and thrive in Saudi Arabia for years to come.

Helping Series A & B Startups Go Further

Startups at the Series A and B stages are poised for growth but often lack the resources to expand into new markets. That’s where 7startup excels. We focus on helping these startups boost their revenue, grow their market share, and increase their overall valuation.

Our approach ensures that within 12 months, your startup will have a strong pipeline of opportunities, recurring revenue, and a solid market presence in Saudi Arabia. This positions you for continued growth and success.

Overcoming Challenges for Western Startups

Many Western startups are hesitant to enter Saudi Arabia due to its perceived challenges. From complex regulations to cultural differences and hiring local talent, the barriers can seem overwhelming. But with 7startup, these challenges become manageable.

We take care of the heavy lifting, from navigating local regulations to handling business registration and logistics. This allows you to focus on what you do best: building and scaling your product.

Why This is the Best Time to Enter Saudi Arabia

There has never been a better time for startups to enter the Saudi market. With global industries embracing technologies like AI, Deep Tech, and sustainability solutions, demand for innovative products is skyrocketing. Saudi Arabia is positioning itself as a hub for these technologies, offering immense opportunities for startups ready to scale.

A Trillion-Dollar Vision: Saudi Arabia’s Investment Landscape

Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 isn’t just a reform plan; it’s a financial powerhouse. The kingdom has pledged to invest an astounding $1 trillion across six key sectors by 2030. This marks a significant step in reshaping its economic landscape and underscores its commitment to becoming a global leader in clean energy, technology, tourism, healthcare, education, and infrastructure.

This massive financial commitment has been dubbed a “capex super cycle” by Goldman Sachs, highlighting the kingdom’s focus on long-term, sustainable growth. By investing strategically, Saudi Arabia aims to position itself as a major player in the global economy, offering unprecedented opportunities for startups and investors alike.

Key Sectors for Investment and Startup Growth

Saudi Arabia’s economic transformation is centered around several high-growth sectors:

1. Technology and Innovation

The tech sector is a priority, with significant investments directed toward digital transformation, artificial intelligence (AI), and cybersecurity. These areas are critical for the kingdom’s industrial and economic advancement.

2. Renewable Energy

Saudi Arabia’s clean energy strategy includes large-scale investments in renewable projects. The increased funding to $235 billion reflects the kingdom’s ambition to become a leader in solar, wind, and other sustainable energy solutions.

3. Healthcare and Biotechnology

Investments in healthcare aim to improve medical infrastructure and advance biotech research. Startups in this space are poised to benefit from initiatives designed to enhance healthcare delivery and innovation.

4. Tourism and Entertainment

As part of its plan to attract international tourists, Saudi Arabia is developing new cultural and recreational attractions. Investments in this sector aim to capitalize on the country’s rich heritage and diverse landscapes, making it a key area for growth.

Are You Ready to Partner with 7startup?

We’re looking for startups that are ready to take the leap. If your company meets the following criteria, we’d love to hear from you:

• £500k+ in revenue.
• Series A or B stage.
• Based in the UK, EU, or US.
• Ready to expand into Saudi Arabia.

Partnership for the Long Term

We stay with you every step of the way, helping you set up local teams, scale your operations, and turn your ambitions into reality.

7startup’s VCaaS model offers a powerful alternative to traditional growth methods, helping Series A and B startups navigate the Saudi market and achieve lasting success. Ready to scale your startup in Saudi Arabia?