Start Smart 2025 Kicks Off: AI-Focused Competition Opens for Applications

I came across a post the other day about the ninth edition of the Start Smart 2025 competition opening its doors, and it immediately reminded me of those early days at Arageek when we’d meet founders who had an idea in their head but barely a sketch on paper. Opportunities like this used to feel like gold dust. And honestly, they still do.

The competition, which is focused entirely on AI-driven projects this year, is now accepting applications. It’s offering a mix of practical support and visibility that a lot of young teams crave. There’s help with developing a prototype, plus the chance to showcase it directly in front of investors — which can be a bit nerve‑wracking, but spot on for anyone hoping to turn a concept into something fundable. Alongside that, participating teams get access to mentoring and hands‑on training in AI tools with specialists who know their stuff. And yes, there are financial prizes reaching up to 50,000 riyals, which never hurts.

The deadline to apply is 30 November 2025, and the application link has been shared through the organisers’ page. It’s all quite straightforward, though the forms can be a bit of a faff if you’re not used to these things… you know?

What I reckon is most interesting here is how competitions like this are subtly shifting. A few years back, AI was almost treated like a futuristic accessory; now it’s the core requirement. On the flip side, that focus might feel limiting to teams working on other types of innovation, but that’s the nature of the moment we’re in. Everyone wants to see where AI can push boundaries next.

And believe it or not, I once sat with a tiny MENA startup that nearly didn’t apply for an accelerator because they thought their prototype was “too early”. They ended up securing funding six months later. So if you’re building something in this space, it might be worth giving Start Smart a look — even if things aren’t perfect yet. The ecosystem is full of these small, open doors that can lead somewhere bigger, even if the timing feels a bit off or, well… definately rushed.

The organisers have labelled the announcement as an advert, but the offering itself looks practical enough. For founders working on AI ideas, this could be the nudge that gets a project moving, and around here at Arageek, we’ve seen how far a single nudge can go.

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