KAUST Innovation Ventures is a venture capital firm established in 2010 and located in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia. The firm focuses on fostering the emerging Saudi technology ecosystem by making seed and early-stage investments in high-tech startups across various sectors, including energy and environment, food and water, advanced materials, robotics, information and communications technology, and healthcare. By acting as a long-term strategic partner, KAUST Innovation Ventures supports its portfolio companies through mentorship and acceleration programs offered by its Entrepreneurship Center. The firm aims to cultivate an innovation-driven investment community and attract both local and international investors to contribute to the growth of innovative technologies in the region.
Interim Vice President and Executive Director of Special Projects, Office of President
Kevin Cullen Ph.D
Vice President of Innovation and Economic Development
Past deals in Gulf Cooperation Council
SARsatX
Pre Seed Round in 2023
SARsatX specializes in Earth Observation data and analytics, utilizing Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology to serve various industries, including environmental management, agriculture, energy, and mining. The company is particularly focused on the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) regions, providing timely and reliable data that enhances decision-making and operational efficiency for its clients. Additionally, SARsatX is involved in the design and development of next-generation small satellites that operate in the X band, further advancing its capabilities in delivering high-quality satellite data.
Red Sea Farms
Venture Round in 2022
Red Sea Farms, based in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia, specializes in sustainable agriculture solutions tailored for arid environments. The company focuses on developing innovative technologies that enable greenhouse and hydroponic farms to cultivate high-quality produce while minimizing water and energy consumption. This approach not only enhances food production efficiency but also promotes sustainability and cost savings for farmers. In addition to its proprietary technologies, Red Sea Farms offers consultancy services, providing expert technical advice on the design and project management of saltwater-based and desert agricultural systems. Through its diverse range of products and services, the company aims to address the challenges of agriculture in water-scarce regions.
MODUS Oilfield
Seed Round in 2022
MODUS Oilfield was incorporated in Saudi early 2020 with the goal of translating technologies developed by the team at KAUST. Our current focus are technologies that aim to improve drilling efficiency and decrease non-productive time.
Red Sea Farms
Series A in 2021
Red Sea Farms, based in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia, specializes in sustainable agriculture solutions tailored for arid environments. The company focuses on developing innovative technologies that enable greenhouse and hydroponic farms to cultivate high-quality produce while minimizing water and energy consumption. This approach not only enhances food production efficiency but also promotes sustainability and cost savings for farmers. In addition to its proprietary technologies, Red Sea Farms offers consultancy services, providing expert technical advice on the design and project management of saltwater-based and desert agricultural systems. Through its diverse range of products and services, the company aims to address the challenges of agriculture in water-scarce regions.
SARsatX
Pre Seed Round in 2020
SARsatX specializes in Earth Observation data and analytics, utilizing Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology to serve various industries, including environmental management, agriculture, energy, and mining. The company is particularly focused on the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) regions, providing timely and reliable data that enhances decision-making and operational efficiency for its clients. Additionally, SARsatX is involved in the design and development of next-generation small satellites that operate in the X band, further advancing its capabilities in delivering high-quality satellite data.
Red Sea Farms
Seed Round in 2020
Red Sea Farms, based in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia, specializes in sustainable agriculture solutions tailored for arid environments. The company focuses on developing innovative technologies that enable greenhouse and hydroponic farms to cultivate high-quality produce while minimizing water and energy consumption. This approach not only enhances food production efficiency but also promotes sustainability and cost savings for farmers. In addition to its proprietary technologies, Red Sea Farms offers consultancy services, providing expert technical advice on the design and project management of saltwater-based and desert agricultural systems. Through its diverse range of products and services, the company aims to address the challenges of agriculture in water-scarce regions.
Edama Organic Solutions
Seed Round in 2020
Edama Organic Solutions, based at KAUST in western Saudi Arabia, addresses the critical issue of organic waste, particularly food waste, which poses significant challenges in a country with limited arable land and scarce water resources. Recognizing Saudi Arabia's status as one of the largest food wasters globally, Edama aims to enhance the entire food system from production to consumption. The company focuses on organic waste recycling tailored for desert environments, working to both reduce landfill waste and boost the agricultural sector's productivity. With a team possessing diverse expertise in agricultural science, engineering, economics, and communications, Edama adopts a holistic approach to tackle the intricate problems associated with food waste and sustainability, ultimately benefiting both communities and the environment.
UnitX
Seed Round in 2019
UnitX Technologies is an artificial intelligence and supercomputing company based in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia, founded in 2018. The company specializes in deploying AI at scale for various industries, including finance, government, retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. It offers a range of products and services through its online software platform, such as UnitX Sentient for accelerating AI initiatives, UnitX Maestro for digital transformation with cloud integration, and UnitX RapidSim for on-demand supercomputing aimed at virtual prototyping. Additionally, UnitX automates safety and security monitoring at industrial sites using its patent-pending AI platform, Vizard, which analyzes sensor data and video analytics to provide real-time insights for health, safety, and environmental (HSE) managers. This platform enhances worker safety by detecting hazards and monitoring restricted zones, thereby reducing incident risks and operational costs. UnitX is recognized for its commitment to responsible AI and ethics and holds ISO certification.
Red Sea Farms
Seed Round in 2019
Red Sea Farms, based in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia, specializes in sustainable agriculture solutions tailored for arid environments. The company focuses on developing innovative technologies that enable greenhouse and hydroponic farms to cultivate high-quality produce while minimizing water and energy consumption. This approach not only enhances food production efficiency but also promotes sustainability and cost savings for farmers. In addition to its proprietary technologies, Red Sea Farms offers consultancy services, providing expert technical advice on the design and project management of saltwater-based and desert agricultural systems. Through its diverse range of products and services, the company aims to address the challenges of agriculture in water-scarce regions.
Edama Organic Solutions
Pre Seed Round in 2019
Edama Organic Solutions, based at KAUST in western Saudi Arabia, addresses the critical issue of organic waste, particularly food waste, which poses significant challenges in a country with limited arable land and scarce water resources. Recognizing Saudi Arabia's status as one of the largest food wasters globally, Edama aims to enhance the entire food system from production to consumption. The company focuses on organic waste recycling tailored for desert environments, working to both reduce landfill waste and boost the agricultural sector's productivity. With a team possessing diverse expertise in agricultural science, engineering, economics, and communications, Edama adopts a holistic approach to tackle the intricate problems associated with food waste and sustainability, ultimately benefiting both communities and the environment.
NOMADD Desert Solar Solutions
Series B in 2018
NOMADD specializes in innovative cleaning solutions for solar panels, particularly in desert environments. The company has developed the NOMADD, a no-water mechanical automated dusting device designed to address the unique challenges of maintaining solar panels in arid regions. This system effectively removes dust from solar panel surfaces without damaging the panels or using water, making it an environmentally friendly option. Headquartered in Saudi Arabia, NOMADD was developed at the King Abdullah University for Science and Technology, near Jeddah, and aims to support solar energy efficiency in regions with high levels of dust and soiling.
Edama Organic Solutions
Pre Seed Round in 2018
Edama Organic Solutions, based at KAUST in western Saudi Arabia, addresses the critical issue of organic waste, particularly food waste, which poses significant challenges in a country with limited arable land and scarce water resources. Recognizing Saudi Arabia's status as one of the largest food wasters globally, Edama aims to enhance the entire food system from production to consumption. The company focuses on organic waste recycling tailored for desert environments, working to both reduce landfill waste and boost the agricultural sector's productivity. With a team possessing diverse expertise in agricultural science, engineering, economics, and communications, Edama adopts a holistic approach to tackle the intricate problems associated with food waste and sustainability, ultimately benefiting both communities and the environment.
UnitX
Pre Seed Round in 2018
UnitX Technologies is an artificial intelligence and supercomputing company based in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia, founded in 2018. The company specializes in deploying AI at scale for various industries, including finance, government, retail, healthcare, and manufacturing. It offers a range of products and services through its online software platform, such as UnitX Sentient for accelerating AI initiatives, UnitX Maestro for digital transformation with cloud integration, and UnitX RapidSim for on-demand supercomputing aimed at virtual prototyping. Additionally, UnitX automates safety and security monitoring at industrial sites using its patent-pending AI platform, Vizard, which analyzes sensor data and video analytics to provide real-time insights for health, safety, and environmental (HSE) managers. This platform enhances worker safety by detecting hazards and monitoring restricted zones, thereby reducing incident risks and operational costs. UnitX is recognized for its commitment to responsible AI and ethics and holds ISO certification.
Arabian Combustion Technologies
Seed Round in 2018
Arabian Combustion Technologies (ACT) is a spinout company from KAUST that specializes in developing advanced combustion technologies aimed at reducing the environmental impact of combustion processes both in Saudi Arabia and globally. The company focuses on innovative solutions such as low energy desulphurization of fossil fuels and novel emulsification methods that enhance fuel efficiency while minimizing environmental harm. ACT collaborates with technology providers to advance these solutions and is committed to building manufacturing capabilities in the Kingdom, thereby creating high-value employment opportunities for the local workforce. Through its efforts, ACT aims to provide clients with access to cutting-edge combustion technologies that support environmental sustainability.
Red Sea Farms
Pre Seed Round in 2017
Red Sea Farms, based in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia, specializes in sustainable agriculture solutions tailored for arid environments. The company focuses on developing innovative technologies that enable greenhouse and hydroponic farms to cultivate high-quality produce while minimizing water and energy consumption. This approach not only enhances food production efficiency but also promotes sustainability and cost savings for farmers. In addition to its proprietary technologies, Red Sea Farms offers consultancy services, providing expert technical advice on the design and project management of saltwater-based and desert agricultural systems. Through its diverse range of products and services, the company aims to address the challenges of agriculture in water-scarce regions.
FalconViz
Series A in 2016
FalconViz LLC, founded in 2015 and based in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia, specializes in 3D surveying and mapping services using advanced aerial and terrestrial scanning technologies. The company employs autonomous multirotor copters to conduct 3D aerial scanning, offering real-time processing of image, orientation, and positioning data. FalconViz produces interactive 3D models, which serve various sectors including urban planning, industrial engineering, construction, cultural heritage reconstruction, and emergency response. Additionally, the company supports commercial projects such as advertisement and motion picture asset generation. By leveraging patented technologies developed at KAUST, FalconViz contributes to digital transformation in Saudi Arabia, providing clients with accurate, timely data to enhance decision-making and strategic planning.
Visual Experience
Seed Round in 2016
Visual Experience, established in 2013 at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, specializes in providing comprehensive virtual reality services throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council region. The company has developed a platform that delivers tailored virtual experiences aimed primarily at the tourism sector. By offering immersive virtual tours of cities such as Makkah, Vienna, and Abu Dhabi, Visual Experience seeks to inspire potential visitors and enhance their desire to explore these locations in person. This innovative approach not only helps clients attract tourists but also supports revenue growth within the tourism industry.
NOMADD Desert Solar Solutions
Series A in 2016
NOMADD specializes in innovative cleaning solutions for solar panels, particularly in desert environments. The company has developed the NOMADD, a no-water mechanical automated dusting device designed to address the unique challenges of maintaining solar panels in arid regions. This system effectively removes dust from solar panel surfaces without damaging the panels or using water, making it an environmentally friendly option. Headquartered in Saudi Arabia, NOMADD was developed at the King Abdullah University for Science and Technology, near Jeddah, and aims to support solar energy efficiency in regions with high levels of dust and soiling.
FalconViz
Equity Crowdfunding in 2016
FalconViz LLC, founded in 2015 and based in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia, specializes in 3D surveying and mapping services using advanced aerial and terrestrial scanning technologies. The company employs autonomous multirotor copters to conduct 3D aerial scanning, offering real-time processing of image, orientation, and positioning data. FalconViz produces interactive 3D models, which serve various sectors including urban planning, industrial engineering, construction, cultural heritage reconstruction, and emergency response. Additionally, the company supports commercial projects such as advertisement and motion picture asset generation. By leveraging patented technologies developed at KAUST, FalconViz contributes to digital transformation in Saudi Arabia, providing clients with accurate, timely data to enhance decision-making and strategic planning.
NOMADD Desert Solar Solutions
Venture Round in 2015
NOMADD specializes in innovative cleaning solutions for solar panels, particularly in desert environments. The company has developed the NOMADD, a no-water mechanical automated dusting device designed to address the unique challenges of maintaining solar panels in arid regions. This system effectively removes dust from solar panel surfaces without damaging the panels or using water, making it an environmentally friendly option. Headquartered in Saudi Arabia, NOMADD was developed at the King Abdullah University for Science and Technology, near Jeddah, and aims to support solar energy efficiency in regions with high levels of dust and soiling.
FalconViz
Venture Round in 2015
FalconViz LLC, founded in 2015 and based in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia, specializes in 3D surveying and mapping services using advanced aerial and terrestrial scanning technologies. The company employs autonomous multirotor copters to conduct 3D aerial scanning, offering real-time processing of image, orientation, and positioning data. FalconViz produces interactive 3D models, which serve various sectors including urban planning, industrial engineering, construction, cultural heritage reconstruction, and emergency response. Additionally, the company supports commercial projects such as advertisement and motion picture asset generation. By leveraging patented technologies developed at KAUST, FalconViz contributes to digital transformation in Saudi Arabia, providing clients with accurate, timely data to enhance decision-making and strategic planning.
FalconViz
Seed Round in 2014
FalconViz LLC, founded in 2015 and based in Thuwal, Saudi Arabia, specializes in 3D surveying and mapping services using advanced aerial and terrestrial scanning technologies. The company employs autonomous multirotor copters to conduct 3D aerial scanning, offering real-time processing of image, orientation, and positioning data. FalconViz produces interactive 3D models, which serve various sectors including urban planning, industrial engineering, construction, cultural heritage reconstruction, and emergency response. Additionally, the company supports commercial projects such as advertisement and motion picture asset generation. By leveraging patented technologies developed at KAUST, FalconViz contributes to digital transformation in Saudi Arabia, providing clients with accurate, timely data to enhance decision-making and strategic planning.
Visual Experience
Seed Round in 2013
Visual Experience, established in 2013 at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, specializes in providing comprehensive virtual reality services throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council region. The company has developed a platform that delivers tailored virtual experiences aimed primarily at the tourism sector. By offering immersive virtual tours of cities such as Makkah, Vienna, and Abu Dhabi, Visual Experience seeks to inspire potential visitors and enhance their desire to explore these locations in person. This innovative approach not only helps clients attract tourists but also supports revenue growth within the tourism industry.
Visual Experience
Seed Round in 2013
Visual Experience, established in 2013 at the King Abdullah University of Science and Technology, specializes in providing comprehensive virtual reality services throughout the Gulf Cooperation Council region. The company has developed a platform that delivers tailored virtual experiences aimed primarily at the tourism sector. By offering immersive virtual tours of cities such as Makkah, Vienna, and Abu Dhabi, Visual Experience seeks to inspire potential visitors and enhance their desire to explore these locations in person. This innovative approach not only helps clients attract tourists but also supports revenue growth within the tourism industry.
NOMADD Desert Solar Solutions
Seed Round in 2012
NOMADD specializes in innovative cleaning solutions for solar panels, particularly in desert environments. The company has developed the NOMADD, a no-water mechanical automated dusting device designed to address the unique challenges of maintaining solar panels in arid regions. This system effectively removes dust from solar panel surfaces without damaging the panels or using water, making it an environmentally friendly option. Headquartered in Saudi Arabia, NOMADD was developed at the King Abdullah University for Science and Technology, near Jeddah, and aims to support solar energy efficiency in regions with high levels of dust and soiling.
SARsatX
SARsatX specializes in Earth Observation data and analytics, utilizing Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR) technology to serve various industries, including environmental management, agriculture, energy, and mining. The company is particularly focused on the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) and the Middle East and North Africa (MENA) regions, providing timely and reliable data that enhances decision-making and operational efficiency for its clients. Additionally, SARsatX is involved in the design and development of next-generation small satellites that operate in the X band, further advancing its capabilities in delivering high-quality satellite data.
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