Jeddah, July 26, 2025: As part of its ongoing efforts to support entrepreneurs and enhance their utilization of artificial intelligence tools, the StartSmart Hub, with the support of Community Jameel Saudi Foundation, organized the 1st edition of the Artificial Intelligence Lab (AI Lab) event. It took place on July 26 at the Hussein Jameel Hall in Jeddah. The lab aims to empower entrepreneurs and startups to explore innovative solutions in a smart environment, thereby enhancing their operations and business growth.

The lab offered participants several engaging activities, including the “Enrichment Sessions” track, which presented talks by experts in utilizing artificial intelligence tools through real-life demonstrations. The “Tools Lab” track offered expert mentorship sessions to help visitors explore applications of artificial intelligence in developing their startups through practical exercises. Finally, visitors also received specialized advice from seasoned entrepreneurs in the “Ask an Expert” track, benefiting from their previous experiences. Moreover, the engagement and communication area provided opportunities to connect with innovation centers, business incubators, service providers, and previous StartSmart programs’ alumni.

Commenting on the Lab, Dr. May Taibah, a Member of the Board of Trustees at Community Jameel Saudi Foundation, stated: “The AI Lab objectives fall within Community Jameel Saudi Foundation and StartSmart’s vision of empowering individuals and communities through innovative tools. This event represents a unique opportunity for entrepreneurs and startup owners to acquire the skills and smart solutions that will stimulate their performance and support their growth.”

Ms. Balqees Basalamah, the Virtual Incubator Manager, commented: “We are pleased to organize the 1st edition of the AI Lab. This event represents a valuable opportunity to equip entrepreneurs with the necessary skills for success, and to provide them with a platform that facilitates networking with their peers. We look forward to seeing the event’s results in stimulating the local entrepreneurship ecosystem, fostering knowledge exchange, and building new partnerships. This will catalyze the acceleration of the adoption of smart solutions in the local market.”

The AI Lab came as part of the “Labs” initiatives organized by the StartSmart Hub. These Labs focus on high-impact topics in the entrepreneurship world; They encourage the adoption of smart and digital solutions that reflect the development of startups and enhance their entrepreneurial skills. These initiatives are in line with the goals of Saudi Vision 2030, such as supporting the entrepreneurship culture, increasing the contribution of small and medium enterprises to the national economy, and promoting digital transformation.