Business & Money | Sunday 18 February, 2018 2:23 am |

Two young Saudi entrepreneurs chosen as winners in the first German-Saudi start-up competition on March 22 will be awarded a four-day tour of Berlin to make a presentation of their companies and services.

“The competition offers young entrepreneurs a platform to connect with industry leaders, experienced investors and potential new customers,” said Oliver Oehms, secretary-general of the German-Saudi Arabian Liaison Office for Economic Affairs (GESALO).

They can join the competition in tech innovation and social entrepreneurship until March 5 to be shortlisted as participants.

Registered companies with user traction and sales as well as innovative ideas are eligible.

The jury for the competition will be composed of leading Saudi entrepreneurs, investors, the GESALO secretary-general, and German Ambassador to Saudi Arabia Dieter W. Haller.

Oehms said the winners will make a presentation in front of prominent Saudi businessman and special guest Khaled Juffali, chairman of the Saudi-German Business Circle, during the MENA Business Forum on April 12.

“Before and after the event, an exciting dive into the vibrant start-up ecosystem in Berlin is waiting for the winning entrepreneurs,” Oehms said.

He said the young Saudis will have individual meetings with successful company founders, investors and experts.

Asked if the competition will help boost bilateral trade, Oehms said the effect would not be immediate but that it helps in the long term.

The competition is organized by GESALO in cooperation with the German Embassy and Glitch International.