TDF Celebrates the Graduation of 15 Startups from the TDF Grow Handicrafts and Souvenirs Accelerator, Supporting Handicrafts and Heritage Sustainability in Tourism

The Tourism Development Fund (TDF) celebrated the graduation of 15 startups from the TDF Grow Handicrafts and Souvenirs Accelerator, held in partnership with Al-Mashtal Creative Incubator. The program attracted 560 applicants, with 40 reaching the challenge stage and 15 projects making it to the final round.

TDF CEO Qusai Al-Fakhri emphasized the importance of empowering local artisans to transform their creative ideas into marketable products that celebrate Saudi identity and cultural heritage.

HRH Princess Noura bint Saud bin Nayef Al Saud, Founder of Al-Mashtal Creative Incubator, praised the initiative for fostering Saudi creativity and SME growth in tourism.

During the six-month program, participants refined their ideas into high-quality, market-ready products, supported by creative workshops and training in intellectual property protection.

This accelerator is part of TDF Grow’s ongoing efforts to empower artisans, promote local craftsmanship, and contribute to Saudi Arabia’s National Tourism Strategy.