KPMG hold applications for Global Tech Innovator 2026 as Saudi startups eye the world stage

KPMG has opened applications for the sixth edition of its Global Tech Innovator (GTI) competition, the firm’s flagship search for ambitious technology companies in Saudi Arabia that are ready to scale beyond their home markets.

Now in its sixth year, the GTI competition has become one of the most recognised launchpads for technology entrepreneurs globally. Since its launch, the competition has attracted over 1,300 applicants across 21 regional pitch competitions, culminating each year in a single global final that brings together national champions from around the world.

Past editions have drawn participants from Australia, Brazil, China, Colombia, Estonia, Finland, Germany, Ghana, India, Ireland, Italy, Japan, Kenya, Mexico, Netherlands, Philippines, Portugal, Saudi Arabia, Sweden, Taiwan, Turkey, the United Kingdom, the United Arab Emirates and the United States.

The competition is open to startups registered in Saudi Arabia that have been operating for seven years or less, whether they are pure technology businesses or tech-enabled companies in any sector. There is no cost to enter, and applications close on 31 July.

For those who make it through, the competition is more than a pitch event. Finalists gain direct access to KPMG mentors and advisers with deep industry knowledge, exposure to a global network of investors and technology leaders, and regional and international media coverage. Country winners receive flights and accommodation to the global final and go on to compete against national champions from across the world, with all finalists evaluated on six criteria: disruption and innovation, market potential, customer adoption, traction, long-term potential and pitch quality.

“Saudi Arabia’s startup scene has matured faster than most markets in the region, and the quality of applications we see each year reflects that,” said Dr. Samer Abdallah, Partner, Board Member and Head of ICT Sector at KPMG Middle East, and chair of the judging panel. “The GTI competition exists to give the best of those founders a global platform — not just recognition, but access to real connections, investors and a stage that opens doors beyond the Kingdom.”

Last year’s Saudi edition drew a record number of applications, with nine finalists pitching across fields as varied as satellite technology, solar energy, bioplastics and Arabic-language AI. The 2025 title went to NanoPalm, a Riyadh-based biotech startup developing programmable lipid nanoparticles for vivo gene therapy, which went on to represent the Kingdom at the global finals in Lisbon.

The local final will be held in Riyadh on [15 Sep]. Founders can apply through the official competition page or contact the team at sa-fm-techinnovator@kpmg.com.

[Apply now: KPMG Private Enterprise Global Tech Innovator competition]