Saudi Fund Ignites Handicraft Sector with Innovative Accelerators
The Saudi Cultural Development Fund (CDF), in collaboration with the Ministry of Culture and the Quality of Life Program, has launched the Nama' Accelerators initiative. This strategic program aims to transform Saudi Arabia's rich handicraft heritage into sustainable economic ventures, aligning with the objectives of Vision 2030.
Nama' Accelerators begins with a dedicated Handicrafts Track, targeting micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) across 11 key fields, including pottery, textiles, and woodworking. Participants will receive specialized training in modern craft techniques, intensive workshops on marketing and business development, and improved access to both local and global markets. Financial incentives are also provided to support long-term business growth and sustainability. Aligning with the Year of Handicrafts 2025
This initiative complements the 2025 Year of Handicrafts, a campaign by the Ministry of Culture to celebrate and preserve Saudi Arabia's artisanal heritage. By integrating traditional crafts into contemporary life, the program seeks to empower artisans, enhance the cultural economy, and promote national identity.
Nama' Accelerators represents a significant step in CDF's mission to become the Financial Center of Excellence for the cultural sector. By fostering innovation and supporting high-potential startups, the program contributes to building a vibrant Saudi entrepreneurial ecosystem that encourages creativity and enables long-term, meaningful growth.
The initiative also consolidates CDF's efforts with key stakeholders in the cultural ecosystem, enabling progress toward achieving the goals of the National Culture Strategy under Saudi Vision 2030. Khalid Al-Baker, CEO of the Quality of Life Program, stated, 'Promoting and sustaining national culture hinges on transforming the cultural sector into an economically productive industry. This transformation involves expanding cultural offerings — including cultural days, events, and activities — and streamlining the permit issuance process for cultural projects.' Fulfilling Vision 2030's Objectives
He added that, as part of the Quality of Life Program's efforts to fulfill Vision 2030's objectives, 'We have implemented programs targeting these key pathways, including the launch of Nama' Accelerators.'
For more information about Nama' Accelerators and the Handicrafts Track, please visit the Cultural Development Fund official website.
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