Savvy Games Group and NEOM have signed a memorandum of understanding aimed at streamlining the development journey of Saudi gaming startups—from early incubation through to acceleration. The partnership supports the Kingdom’s National Gaming and Esports Strategy and aligns with the objectives of Saudi Vision 2030 by strengthening the country’s end-to-end gaming ecosystem.
The agreement establishes a coordinated framework between Savvy’s Nine66 Incubator Program and NEOM’s Level Up Accelerator. Under this collaboration, startups graduating from Nine66 will be equipped with the training, resources, and support needed to transition smoothly into Level Up, creating a more efficient and connected startup pipeline.
Additionally, the initiative builds on the rapid progress of both programs and is designed to cultivate a stronger pool of investable gaming studios.
Empowering Early-Stage Studios Through Nine66
Savvy’s Nine66 Incubator Program focuses on helping early-stage gaming studios validate prototypes, develop core capabilities, and prepare for engagement with investors. The program is designed to ensure startups are well-positioned to advance into the next phases of growth, development, and scaling.
NEOM’s Level Up Accelerator provides funding and mentorship to help incubated studios grow into sustainable, self-sufficient businesses. Since its launch in 2023, the program has evolved into a multiphase platform supporting more than 45 Saudi startups, deploying 15 investments, and achieving a 100% survival rate across its portfolio—surpassing many global benchmarks.
With the support of 17 international publishing and industry partners, Level Up has enabled the creation of over 170 jobs and marked a historic milestone for the Kingdom: its first international publishing deal for a local gaming startup, signed between Fahy Studio and UK-based publisher Kwalee.
Industry Alignment, Long-Term Impact
Commenting on the partnership, Amr Sager, Group Chief of Staff at Savvy Games Group, highlighted the growing momentum within Saudi Arabia’s games industry. He also noted that while the rise of initiatives supporting emerging studios is encouraging, greater alignment and synergy across these efforts are essential to create a clearer, smoother journey for startups seeking the right support to build, operate, and scale their businesses.
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