The Center offers one-on-one and team-based coaching, where new entrepreneurs are mentored by seasoned start-up professionals. The objective is to help shorten the learning curve on key issues such as:
The coaches come from a variety of backgrounds and can offer insights into and guidance for topics ranging from defining the business model and go-to-market strategy, to preparing the investor pitch.
In addition to on-campus coaching, the Center has organized intensive customized offsite events, such as a one-week “boot camp” at Switzerland’s École Polytechnique Fédérale de Lausanne (EPFL). Over the course of the week at EPFL, teams of KAUST entrepreneurs presented their projects as real, relevant business cases; received feedback and advice from industry experts and VCs; identified potential areas of collaboration; and, on the final day, pitched real investors.
This learning experience was one of the best I have ever had; it was not just another teaching course. It was real, to the point, and made us redefine our path in a clearer way
The Center also organizes venture-financing events, where entrepreneurs who have successfully leveraged the Center's coaching services can meet and network with potential investors.
We are always interested in working and partnering with outstanding entrepreneurs and mentors. If you’re interested in becoming a coach or mentor for KAUST’s entrepreneurs please email us at entrepreneurship@kaust.edu.sa.
Led by the Center’s manager, Ahmed Abdulwahab, this interactive workshop helped participants understand the value and reasons for developing a business plan, identify the type of information one should include in that plan, how to prepare a business plan outline, and how to prepare for seed or venture funding.