2024
In an incrementally borderless world, a startup’s addressable market is a critical factor for its growth and potential.
Through Global Launch open up new opportunities to expand your customer base, attract international talent, and cultivate capital growth opportunities.
At 500 Global, we understand the hurdles of entering new markets, from navigating complex regulatory landscapes to understanding and adapting to cultural nuances.
Global Launch is aimed to equip selected startups with the knowledge, resources, and connections needed for successful international expansion, including a proven market validation framework, access to innovation corridors, networking opportunities, and on-the-ground support, leveraging our global network4.
Saudi Arabia serves as a gateway to the Middle East, boasting a digitally savvy population and supportive government policies including regulatory reforms, infrastructure development, visa programs, and more. These initiatives, coupled with growing investor interest and enhanced access to capital, create a conducive environment for foreign startups to develop and thrive in the region.
With 500 Global's established presence and support for startups in the MENA region since 2016, we can provide invaluable assistance and expertise to foreign startups looking to navigate in this dynamic market.
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Saudi Arabia serves as a gateway to the Middle East, boasting a digitally savvy population and supportive government policies including regulatory reforms, infrastructure development, visa programs, and more. These initiatives, coupled with growing investor interest and enhanced access to capital, create a conducive environment for foreign startups to develop and thrive in the region.
With 500 Global's established presence and support for startups in the MENA region since 2016, we can provide invaluable assistance and expertise to foreign startups looking to navigate in this dynamic market.
Program dates: 25th August - 5th September
Riyadh, Singapore and Tokyo
The Global Launch program in Riyadh, Singapore and Tokyo operates in two phases.
In Phase 1, startups undergo market validation and evaluation to determine their readiness for expansion. Based on their time in-market, they derive a go or no-go decision, using a data and feedback-driven approach to decide on whether to proceed to Phase 2 for market expansion or reevaluate their strategy. This approach ensures startups make informed decisions and optimize their chances of success in new markets.
Phase 1: Market validation and evaluation
The program Fee for Phase 1 is $35,000 per startup, excluding travel expenses. This fee covers the comprehensive support, mentorship, and resources provided throughout Phase 1.
By completing Phase 1, startups is expected to gain valuable insights, refine their strategies, and make informed decisions for successful market expansion.
4 weeks in home country
During this phase, startups will engage in tailored collaboration with 500 Global’s program team and mentors. This includes a structured program to fit startups’ specific needs and goals, as well as establishing a strong foundation for the upcoming market validation and evaluation phases.
2 weeks in target country
Startups will immerse themselves in the target market, interacting with potential customers to gather valuable insights. This phase is crucial and mandatory for understanding market dynamics, customer preferences, and validating product-market fit.
1 day in target country
This in-person event provides startups with the opportunity to network with potential customers and validate their products or services. It serves as a platform to showcase innovations, receive feedback, understand customer preferences, and identify areas for improvement.
2 weeks in home country
Building upon the insights gained in the validation phase, startups will evaluate the feasibility of expanding into their target market. This includes analyzing market trends, competitive landscapes, regulatory considerations, and other factors critical for successful expansion.
Phase 2: Market Expansion
The program fee for Phase 2 is $14,500 per startup, excluding travel expenses. This fee covers continued support, mentorship, and resources tailored to support startups during the critical market expansion phase.
2 weeks in target country
Upon arriving at a go decision from Phase 1, startups will enter Phase 2 focused on executing their market expansion strategies. This includes establishing a presence in the target markets, refining growth tactics, and leveraging insights gained to achieve sustainable growth.
Gain market-specific insights, validate target markets, and refine strategies through workshops and mentoring sessions led by local experts. Our tailored approach focuses on addressing your startup’s unique needs, ensuring efficient market validation and strategy refinement.
Access tools and frameworks to gather and analyze market feedback, customer behavior, and performance metrics. Participate in the Product Open House event to receive valuable feedback, refine your product/service, and achieve product-market fit quicker.
Leverage 500 Global’s extensive network of experts, partners, and startups who have deep knowledge and experience in global expansion. Tap into our global connections and strategic partnerships, to enhance your market reach and growth potential.
Receive guidance in navigating regulatory challenges, establishing local operations, and accessing funding avenues for seamless expansion.
Applicants will go through a 2-step selection process, as detailed below:
Round 1 - Filling out the Application Form prior to the deadline.
Round 2 - Shortlisted candidates from Round 1 will go through a 30-min panel interview with 500’s Selection Committee members.
The Selection Committee’s final decision will be communicated at least 2 weeks prior to the program’s start date.
How does a startup qualify for the program?
In which language(s) will the program be taught?
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What locations could be considered for the expansion?
For Saudi Arabia, Singapore and Japan, how will the location for expansion be selected?
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