Our Thesis

Deep Tech Startups

As we navigate the mid-2020s, the world faces complex challenges and unprecedented opportunities for deep tech startups to drive transformative solutions. At 7startup, we focus on the sectors that will experience the most transformative growth—deep tech, clean tech, and AI—while leveraging our Venture Capital as a Service (VCaaS) model to accelerate innovation.

Our approach goes beyond traditional venture capital by offering Series A and B startups from the UK, EU, and USA the tools they need to scale rapidly in Saudi Arabia. We combine operational support, local market expertise, and investment capital, positioning these startups to navigate new markets with confidence and secure early success.

In uncertain times, great opportunities emerge. Through our VCaaS model, we are committed to empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs to thrive and shape the future with meaningful impact.

Our Sectors

Deep Tech Startups

The technological advances are driving exponential data growth, opening vast opportunities in deep tech. This includes innovations beyond AI and ML, such as next-gen nuclear reactors and advanced material science. In Saudi Arabia, these breakthroughs hold the potential for transformative impact across key sectors.

Net Zero Tech

With global efforts toward a net zero future accelerating, Saudi Arabia’s commitment to this goal offers fertile ground for innovation. Startups in renewable energy, sustainable transport, and carbon capture are poised to benefit from this transformation.

Artificial Intelligence

AI is reshaping economies, and Saudi Arabia is at the forefront of this transformation through Vision 2030. AI-driven solutions are crucial for boosting efficiency and solving challenges in energy, finance, and urban development.

We invest in mission-driven founders from the UK, Europe, and the USA at the Series A stage who are deeply committed to their cause. The best startups need time to develop their technology and scale in the market. Our focus is on Deep Tech, Net Zero Tech, and AI—startups that combine science and engineering to tackle the toughest and most lucrative challenges in Saudi Arabia and beyond.

Venture Capital as a Service (VCaaS) & Deep Tech Startups

At 7startup, we don’t just provide growth capital—we deliver hands-on support and deep local expertise in Saudi Arabia and the Middle East. Our Venture Capital as a Service (VCaaS) model combines capital investment with operational scaling to ensure that our portfolio companies succeed in this high-potential market. By managing business operations locally, we mitigate the high risks typically associated with traditional VC models, accelerating both market entry and growth.

1. Selection

We partner with post-revenue startups that are ready to scale in Saudi Arabia’s fast-growing industrial and technological sectors. Our focus is on companies with at least £500k in revenue, year-over-year growth, a strong team, and defensible IP. We look for startups that have the potential to make a significant impact in the region while benefiting from our operational support and market-entry expertise.

2. POC

Our local presence in Riyadh enables us to secure Proof of Concept (POC) agreements by tapping into our network of investors, leaders, and decision-makers. This real-world validation phase allows startups to assess their product’s market potential in Saudi Arabia. By leveraging our channel partners and sales network, we rapidly scale marketing, support, and sales efforts, ensuring a fast and effective path to market.

3. Investment

In the third phase, we strategically deploy capital into validated portfolio companies through the 7startup Fund. Following successful POCs and the establishment of a robust pipeline in Saudi Arabia, these companies undergo a thorough evaluation by our investment committee. Those that meet our stringent criteria receive a blend of local in-kind and direct investments, positioning them for rapid growth in the region.

Net Zero Tech

The global push for net zero presents huge opportunities for startups in renewable energy, sustainable transport, and carbon capture. Saudi Arabia, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2060, is investing heavily in solar, wind, and the Saudi Green Initiative, making it a prime market for cleantech innovation.

Renewable Energy -ambition and the art of the possible in the search for a hydrogen economy.

Mobility and Transport – electricity from renewables and clean hydrogen are crucial for zero-emission transport, enabled by advancements in electric vehicles and smart systems.

Built Environment -smart cities of the future incorporate sustainable technologies, reducing emissions and improving efficiency.

Industrial & Business Processes – electrifying processes and leveraging digital transformation can enhance transparency and efficiency, driving innovation.

Deep Tech

We seek Deep tech startups, combining visionary ambition with pragmatic execution, to tackle some of the world’s greatest challenges while delivering commercially viable results, transforming entire industries in the process.7startup builds robust sales pipelines, securing customer acquisition, and rapidly scaling business operations in Saudi Arabia.

AI & Machine Learning – We prioritize startups pushing the boundaries of AI & ML beyond application layers, focusing on real-world use cases in Saudi Arabia. These include developing deep learning algorithms for autonomous vehicles, industrial automation, and manufacturing, as well as cutting-edge computer vision technologies.

Robotics -The convergence of advanced hardware, AI, and automation offers game-changing innovations. From autonomous vehicles and industrial automation to breakthroughs in logistics, supply chain, and even construction and retail, we focus on driving disruptive change in traditional sectors.

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s $1.8 trillion economy is set for continued growth, driven by a strong global energy market and ambitious diversification efforts. For high-tech, high-growth companies, especially in the B2B sector, the Saudi market offers significant opportunities with high returns and lower risks compared to B2C ventures. However, establishing a local legal entity and operational infrastructure remains a challenge for smaller tech businesses.

Vision 2030’s bold infrastructure initiatives, backed by over $1 trillion in investments, provide fertile ground for innovation. Privatization and Public-Private Partnerships (PPPs), including $15 billion in tenders, open doors for international investors and startups. Sectors like real estate and renewable energy are thriving, with flagship projects like NEOM and the NEOM Green Hydrogen Project attracting billions in investment. At 7startup, our VCaaS model simplifies market entry by managing local operations, enabling Western tech companies to scale effectively in Saudi Arabia’s business-friendly environment.

Leading Value-Added Digital Solutions in Saudi Arabia

“As we move closer to 2030, the emphasis on AI, Deep Tech, and Net Zero technologies is more critical than ever. While many sectors face saturation, Deep Tech continues to thrive, showcasing unparalleled growth and resilience. Over the past decade, venture capital investment in Deep Tech has surged, now accounting for a substantial share of all venture capital activity.

With projected global investment in Deep Tech expected to exceed $500 billion by 2030, this sector not only represents a rising force but is also proving to be one of the most future-proof investment opportunities. As the world embraces AI-driven solutions and races toward Net Zero goals, Deep Tech stands at the forefront of innovation, offering unmatched potential for both transformative impact and exceptional returns.

At 7startup, we are committed to backing mission-driven founders who are shaping this future, particularly in Saudi Arabia, where Vision 2030 creates the ideal environment for Deep Tech to scale and thrive.”  – Amit Khanna, CEO, 7startup

Amit Khanna
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