Grow Tourism Bootcamps



About The Program

An entrepreneurial program that aims to enable entrepreneurs and innovators in the tourism sector. The program is designed to build growth mindsets, develop entrepreneurial skills, and provide the necessary tool set to transform ideas into MVPs ready to enter the market.



Program Objectives

Activating entrepreneurship within the tourism sector

Increasing the contribution of small and medium enterprises to local production

Establishing and supporting entrepreneurial tourism ideas to become startups with high potential for success in the local and then global market

Providing, enabling, development and investment opportunities for entrepreneurs and innovators in the tourism sector


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Features Of The Program Title Pattern

Providing training workshops and consultation sessions by experts and specialists in various fields

Stakeholder engagement with entrepreneurs and founders of innovative businesses in the tourism sector

Investment opportunities during the demo day in the presence of investment funds and angel investors

Linking with various relevant authorities from the government and private sector

Providing training workshops and consultation sessions by experts and specialists in various fields

Stakeholder engagement with entrepreneurs and founders of innovative businesses in the tourism sector

Investment opportunities during the demo day in the presence of investment funds and angel investors

Linking with various relevant authorities from the government and private sector




Program Stages

Application Submission Phase

Registration deadlines and applications are reviewed

Application submission deadline is 10-February 2024

Filtering and Qualification Phase

Ends 17-February 2024

Virtual Tourism Challenge Phase

With the participation of up to 200 beneficiaries in the tourism sector

From 18 to 20 February 2024

Bootcamp Phase

With the participation of the best 20-25 finalists from the challenge in each bootcamp (a diagram showing the division of 3 camps from the challenge)

From 25-February to 19-March 2024

Graduation Ceremony

With the participation of the best entrepreneurs in the program

To be determined

Post Program Follow-up

3 months, on the performance and development of entrepreneurs. This stage is where we ensure the readiness of entrepreneurs to enter the market. We link them with the relevant authorities according to the needs of each project.

From 17-March to 13-June 2024

Application Submission Phase

Registration deadlines and applications are reviewed

Application submission deadline is 10-February 2024

Filtering and Qualification Phase

Ends 17-February 2024

Virtual Tourism Challenge Phase

With the participation of up to 200 beneficiaries in the tourism sector

From 18 to 20 February 2024

Bootcamp Phase

With the participation of the best 20-25 finalists from the challenge in each bootcamp (a diagram showing the division of 3 camps from the challenge)

From 25-February to 19-March 2024

Graduation Ceremony

With the participation of the best entrepreneurs in the program

To be determined

Post Program Follow-up

3 months, on the performance and development of entrepreneurs. This stage is where we ensure the readiness of entrepreneurs to enter the market. We link them with the relevant authorities according to the needs of each project.

From 17-March to 13-June 2024



Target Audience

Owners of innovative ideas in the tourism sector in its various fields

Owners of pioneering projects in the tourism sector in its various fields

Application Conditions

  • Saudi nationality
  • Dedication and full commitment to attending the Bootcamp program
  • The applicant must be at least 18 years old
  • The presence of a team consisting of at least two people (a maximum of five participants per team)
  • The existence of an innovative solution based on a specific problem in the sector. It could, as well, be the presence of an existing commercial facility in the tourism sector


Frequently Asked Questions

What is the registration process?
Registration in The Bootcamp program is done by filling out the application form on the official website of the Tourism Development Fund.

What are the conditions for applying for The Bootcamp Program?
-Saudi nationality -Dedication and full commitment to attending the The Bootcamp program -The applicant must be at least 18 years old -The presence of a team consisting of at least two people (a maximum of five participants per team) -The existence of an innovative solution based on a specific problem in the sector. It could, as well, be the presence of an existing commercial facility in the tourism sector

What are the stages of the program and the duration of each stage?
The program is divided into three basic stages: 1st stage: 3-day virtual challenge 2nd stage: 5-day bootcamp followed by remote virtual sessions for 3 weeks 3rd stage: a 3-month virtual follow-up program

When is the start period of the program?
The program will be during the evening, and the agenda will be shared with the participating entrepreneurs
What are the program's working days?
The program's working days will be from Sunday to Thursday. If a change occurs, we will contact the participating entrepreneurs in advance

If qualified, where will The Bootcamp be located?
The Bootcamp location will be shared later with the possibility of the camp being held virtually.

If qualified for the bootcamp stage, will travel and accommodation costs be covered?
No, travel and accommodation costs are not covered

If, after the end of The Bootcamp program, I qualify to participate in the graduation ceremony, who will cover the travel and accommodation costs?
Travel and accommodation costs will be covered by the participant

What investment opportunities does The Bootcamp program offer to entrepreneurs?
Investment opportunities are: -Linking participants with investors and investment companies through a project demo day at the end of the closing ceremony - Nominating the list of participants to the Tourism Development Fund and other relevant parties (governmental and private).

Does the program support or cover transportation costs within the city that will be identified?
The Tourism Development Fund does not cover transportation costs

What are the obligations to join The Bootcamp program?
Continue to attend the entire program and share with those in charge all the required details requsted by the program, while pledging to commit to traveling to the graduation ceremony location. Dates and location of which will be determined later in the event of being qualified among the best 20 entrepreneurial ideas by the end of the program.

What is meant by the project demo day at the closing ceremony?
A day will be held to showcase the best projects graduating from the program, where each entrepreneur will present his/her project with the aim of obtaining investment opportunities and strategic partnerships, in the presence of representatives from relevant governmental and private sectors.

Does the presence of some team members replace the presence of others during the program?
Yes, the presence of all team members is not required. The presence of the owner or his representative among the team members is sufficient.

How do I make sure my registration request has been received?
A confirmation message will be sent via the email entered in the registration form.

Can I join The Bootcamp program individually?
No, you cannot, as one of the conditions for accepting the application is that you must apply as a team of at least two people.

Does the program provide any financial support or in-kind rewards?
No, the program does not provide any financial support or in-kind rewards

Are there financial fees to register in The Bootcamp program?
No, there is no financial fees to register in The Bootcamp program

Are there certificates provided by The Bootcamp program?
Yes, there are certificates of attendance signed by the Tourism Development Fund and presented to eligible participants in both Arabic and English at the challenge and bootacmp stages. There is also a certificate at the graduation ceremony if qualified.

What are the conditions for eligibility for the certificate provided by The Bootcamp program?
The conditions for eligibility for the certificate are the commitment to attendance throughout the program period. Participating fully with all the details required in every program.

What does it mean if I do not receive a response from the program team via email or phone call?
Failure to receive an email or phone call from the program staff will mean that you are not eligible based on the registration form.

If I have other inquiries, how can I contact?
You can contact via the email shown Bootcamps@tdf.gov.sa Or through the call center at the following number: 920011552



Please Read Terms And Conditions

Tourism Development Fund Bootcamp Program Terms, Conditions, and Declaration

The user of the platform cannot submit the registration form without clicking on an empty box below the terms and conditions and next to it is the phrase: I agree to all terms and conditions.

Notice:

The Tourism Development Fund ("the Fund") retains the right to alter and/or amend any terms, conditions, or declaration at any time, at its sole discretion, without the need for prior consent from the participant. In the event of such changes, they will be promptly communicated via the Fund's official website, social media channels, or through the email address provided by the participant during their enrollment process.

Introduction:

The Tourism Development Fund has launched the "Bootcamp Program" to incentivize entrepreneurs and SME’s enterprises, aiming to bolster the tourism sector within the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. 

About the Program:

This pioneering program empowers entrepreneurs and innovators in the tourism industry by fostering investment-minded thinking, honing entrepreneurial skills, and equipping them with the essential tools to turn ideas into market-ready prototypes.

Bootcamp program, spanning three months, includes:

1. Interactive workshops and guidance sessions conducted by industry experts and specialists.
2. Engagements with seasoned entrepreneurs and founders of innovative projects in the tourism sector.
3. Opportunities for investment pitches during a conclusive showcase attended by investment funds and angel investors.
4. Connections with a diverse array of stakeholders from both government and private sectors. 

The content will be accessible both online and in-person at the specified camp location. 

Commitment:

This document delineates the terms and conditions between the Fund and the program participants, referred to collectively as "Participants" and individually as a "Participant." These terms and conditions, along with the declaration, are applicable to all program participants. Each participant is expected to thoroughly read and comprehend them prior to submitting their application for the program. 

Upon acceptance and signature by the participant, this document becomes a legally binding agreement, necessitating compliance with its stipulated terms and conditions.

Firstly: Terms and Conditions

1. Participants must be at least 18 years old.

2. Participants should have Saudi citizenship.

3. Teams must consist of at least two individuals.

4. All applications will experience a thorough review and evaluation process to ensure they meet the program's standards.

5. Acceptance is not guaranteed; applications will be critically assessed by the Fund, and decisions are final. There are no grounds for objection if an application is declined.

6. Participants are expected to uphold public decency and professional conduct, avoiding any behavior that contradicts Islamic values or could be considered offensive, violent, discriminatory, or harassing.

7. Participants must refrain from sharing unsuitable content related to the program, its participants, the Fund, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, or Islam on social media platforms.

8. All program materials are proprietary to the Fund and/or the program executors and are intended for personal and educational use only. No commercial use or reproduction is permitted. Participants do not hold any intellectual property rights over materials provided by the Fund, the program executors, or other participants, including but not limited to patents or trademarks. 

9. Participants are advised to register their intellectual property with the appropriate authorities before or during their involvement in the program. The Fund is not liable for any intellectual property infringements and will not entertain claims for compensation arising from such violations.

10. The Fund has the authority to use, replicate, publish, or utilize any photographs, videos, and audio recordings of the participant in its marketing campaigns and for other business or non-business-related purposes, contingent upon securing prior approval from the participant. 

11. Information and materials provided during the program are not to be considered as professional advice or recommendations. Participants should seek independent professional advice before making any business or investment decisions. The participant agrees that the Fund and the program executors are not liable for any losses, damages, or expenses that might occur due to the use of or reliance on the program content. 

12. Acceptance into the program does not constitute a promise or approval from the Fund for funding or investing in the participant's project(s), nor does it guarantee any job opportunities.

13. The business ideas and concepts of other participants are confidential. They cannot be disclosed, used, or reproduced without explicit written consent from the respective owners.

14. The Fund may, at its discretion, request additional information or documentation at any time to verify the authenticity of the participant's application and the accuracy of their data.

15. The Fund reserves the right to reject any application that fails to meet the program's terms, conditions, and overall ethos.

16. The Fund may disqualify any participant at any stage if they provide false information, taking any necessary legal actions. 

17. Participants must disclose any existing health conditions — physical or mental— to ensure prompt and appropriate medical responses if needed during the program. Pre-existing health conditions do not automatically lead to exclusion from the program, but relevant information and documentation must be provided. 

18. Participants are expected to fully engage with all program requirements, including tasks, training sessions, assignments, and activities. 

19. Full attendance is mandatory. Participants should be present at least ten minutes before each session starts. Excessive absences (more than two days for virtual sessions or three days for in-person sessions) may lead to termination from the program.

20. Participants must have a computer with Internet access and be in a quiet, undisturbed area for virtual sessions.

21. Cameras must be on during all virtual meetings and activities.

22. Participants must submit and sign all required legal documents for the program following the challenge phase. This includes, but is not limited to, the Entrepreneur Participation Agreement, Loan Disclosure, and a Consent Form for Photography. 

23. The participant is responsible for all travel and accommodation expenses, as well as any other associated costs, if they are accepted into phases of the program that necessitate such expenditures. This also includes any costs related to attending the final event, should they advance to that stage. 

24. The participant agrees that they have no right to challenge the announced winners' results, understanding that these outcomes are based entirely on the Fund's assessment and selection criteria. They accept all related decisions as final and binding, with no option for appeal or contestation. 

25. The Fund does not recognize any current risks, and the participant fully assumes responsibility for their participation in this program and any associated risks, be they legal, physical, or mental. The participant also exempts the Fund from any claims, losses, or damages and absolves the Fund from any lawsuits and liabilities of any nature.

26. The participant agrees to safeguard, indemnify, and absolve the Fund (including its officials, employees, and agents) from all claims, damages, losses, obligations, liabilities, costs, and expenses that may arise due to the participant's breach or violation of any of the commitments mentioned above. 

27. These terms and conditions are subject to and interpreted based on the laws and regulations in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

Secondly:  Participant's Declaration:

By signing below, I confirm that I have read, comprehended, accepted, and committed to all the terms and conditions specified in this document.

  • You acknowledge, as an applicant of The Bootcamp Program (the “Program”), that once you have completed the registration application, your admission is not guaranteed as your application will be subject to examination and assessment by the Tourism Development Fund (“TDF”) by its internal requirements, conditions and at its discretion. You shall have no right to object to TDF’s decision in the event your application is denied or rejected for any reason.
  • You acknowledge, as an applicant of the Program, to behave by professional standards and refrain from demeaning violent, discriminatory, or harassing behaviour.
  • You acknowledge, as an applicant of the Program, that the content and all materials distributed in connection with the Program, are fully owned by TDF and/or the Program’s instructors and shall only be used for your personal use and educational benefits. You shall have no right of any intellectual property rights - including but not limited to - patent applications, presented materials, or trademarks (belonging to TDF, the Program’s instructors and/or other participants) and shall not use or reproduce these intellectual property rights for any commercial purposes.
  • You acknowledge, as an applicant of the Program, that you permit TDF to copy, publish, reproduce or otherwise use your photographs, videos and audio recordings for marketing campaigns and other commercial or non-commercial purposes without any notice or prior consent from your end.and other commercial or non-commercial purposes without any notice or prior consent from your end.
  • You acknowledge, as an applicant of the Program, that the information and material presented during the Program are not intended to constitute any source of advice credit analysis or recommendations. You shall not rely on such information and material for any reason and must seek and obtain the necessary professional advice before taking or refraining from any type of action or investment decisions. You acknowledge that TDF and the Program’s instructors shall not be liable for any losses, damages, costs, or expenses incurred or arising as a result of using or relying on the content of the Program.
  • You acknowledge, as an applicant of the Program, that your admission and participation in the Program shall not imply or constitute a promise or approval by TDF to fund and/or invest in your project(s) and/or provide any employment opportunity whatsoever.
  • You acknowledge, as an applicant of the Program, that the business ideas and concepts of other participants in the Program shall be deemed confidential and shall not be disclosed, used and/or reproduced without the prior written consent of their owners.
  • You acknowledge, as an applicant of the Program, to defend and indemnify TDF and hold it (along with its officers, directors, employees and agents) harmless from all claims, damages, losses, liabilities, costs and expenses resulting from your breach or violation of any provision of these Terms and Conditions.
  • You acknowledge on the following:
    • The applicant must be at least 18 years old.
    • The applicant must be Saudi.
    • Apply as a team of at least two people.
    • All registration applications are subject to review and audit; to ensure compliance with specified standards.
    • If necessary, the project management has the right to request more information to verify the participant’s data or details of his/her participation.
    • If the information provided is proven to be incorrect in any way, the participant will be excluded at any stage of the program and will be subject to legal accountability
    • The Bootcamps Program reserves the right to disqualify any participation that does not comply with the terms and conditions, the evaluation process, or the general direction of the program.
    • The applicant must pass the nomination process and be accepted to participate.
    • Commitment to all program requirements, including tasks, training, assignments, and activities.
    • Commitment to effective attendance for all hours and days of the stage for which one is nominated, and to be present at least ten minutes before the start time.
    • To have a computer with the internet and be in a quiet place to avoid any kind of distraction during the stages that will be held virtually.
    • Turning on the camera is mandatory in all stage meetings and events that will be held virtually.
    • Adherence to the rules of conduct and social rules of behaviour.
    • Commitment to sign sufficient legal documents after the challenge stage (entrepreneur participation agreement document, loan disclosure agreement document, photography acknowledgement and permission document).
    • If the participant is accepted into the Bootcamp stage and attends the closing ceremony if qualified, The Tourism Development Fund does not cover the costs of travel, accommodation, and any other costs.
    • Any changes will be posted on the official website, through the official accounts on social media pages, or by email.