Riyadh – Sharikat Mubasher: KPMG launched the fifth edition of its Global Tech Innovator (GTI) competition, inviting Saudi startups to compete for a chance to gain global exposure and represent the Kingdom on the international stage.

Applications opened in April, with local finals set for August 27, 2025, at KPMG’s head office in Riyadh. The competition is open to early and growth-stage tech startups across various sectors—including FinTech, HealthTech, AI, and sustainability, as per a recent press release.

The winner of the Saudi finals will advance to the global showdown, joining finalists from over 20 countries. Last year’s Saudi winner, Ejari, stood out with its “Rent Now, Pay Later” platform and went on to compete at the global finals in Lisbon.

Samer Abdallah, Head of the ICT Sector at KPMG in Saudi Arabia and chair of the judging panel, said: “We are witnessing a surge in innovation and entrepreneurial ambition in the region. The GTI competition provides a powerful launchpad for startups in Saudi Arabia to gain international exposure, connect with industry leaders, and fast-track their growth journeys.”

In 2024, the global GTI competition attracted more than 1,500 applicants from 23 countries. Japan’s Thermalytica Inc. took home the top prize for its cutting-edge thermal insulation technology.

Since its inception, GTI has helped spotlight emerging tech talent, providing finalists with investor access, global visibility, and mentorship from industry leaders.