We’ve been talking to some brilliant and influential leaders in the Saudi startup tech and ecosystems for #LEAP2025. This series gives us an unmatched insight into the impact LEAP has had in their success.
This week we caught up with Omar Al-Shabaan, CPO at The Garage. The Garage and LEAP have enjoyed a successful partnership since LEAP’s inauguration in 2022.
The Garage is a space created specifically for startups in Riyadh. It was built from an old parking garage, hence the name. In its current form, the Garage has been in operation since 2023 and boasts I24 conference rooms, an event area for up to 1,000 people, dedicated workshop spaces, sleeping pods and even a food court. It's designed to be a startup hub combining coworking, incubation and acceleration under one roof. It also envisions a co-living element to nurture startups globally and position Riyadh as a launchpad for their growth.
How does LEAP showcase your mission of empowering startups and advancing the tech ecosystem? And how has LEAP benefited The Garage?
The Garage offers startups a physical space and valuable connections, while LEAP plays a major role in expanding their global reach. According to Omar, LEAP provides startups with exposure, partnerships, and opportunities to thrive. It allows them to showcase their innovations and connect with key delegations, including ministers, CEOs, and influencers.
Many entrepreneurs approach The Garage at their booth and book tours of the facility. They’ve built partnerships with major tech companies that have resulted in new programs and innovations that are hosted at The Garage, all off the back of connections made at LEAP.
Omar had this to say about the relationship between The Garage and LEAP: “LEAP has been monumental in amplifying our mission. It’s helped connect us with hundreds of VCs, angel investors and corporates, making it a launchpad for success. We’ve incubated around 400 startups from over 55 countries.”
How has LEAP helped startups grow through sales and fundraising?
LEAP has proven to be a powerful catalyst for startups, particularly in terms of fundraising and networking. The event serves as a connection point for startups and venture capitalists, angel investors and major corporations. At LEAP there have been hundreds of valuable deals and memorandums of understanding (MOUs) facilitated.
This success stems from the direct contact between entrepreneurs and the people who want to invest in them. This first-hand access between all the key players in the startup ecosystem accelerates startups' growth by providing the resources and partnerships they need to succeed.
Can you share specific success stories that highlight LEAP’s impact on startups?
There have been many partnerships and success stories created at LEAP explained Omar. He laughed and said that the numbers were already in the hundreds. But two that came to mind were both Draper University and New Lab who began their relationships with The Garage at LEAP. It has also facilitated discussions with major local tech companies, telecoms, and banks.
Two specific shoutouts were NanoPalm and MisMar.
NanoPalm is a biotech startup tackling sickle cell anemia through cutting-edge nanotechnology. It has significantly reduced treatment costs for the disease worldwide. Their exposure at LEAP allowed them to connect with investors and gain recognition in the medical field, further advancing their innovative solutions.
MisMar is a fleet management startup and part of the Saudi Unicorn program. They have benefited immensely from LEAP's platform. By showcasing their services at LEAP, they established transformative industry connections and demonstrated their scalability potential.
He summed it up by saying: “During LEAP, many entrepreneurs approach us after learning about the Garage. They often join our programs, and from there take their place on the global startup stage.”
Rocket Fuel is a major platform for top startups at LEAP. How does it impact the garage?
Rocket Fuel is a major launch pad for startups, and also had a lasting impact on The Garage itself. Omar has been a judge on the panel since its first round. Several Garage startups achieved high rankings in the competition and the event has also fostered invaluable partnerships and collaborations.
“Rocket Fuel has been instrumental. Some of our startups have placed highly in the competition. We’re exploring ways for winners to get further support from the garage. The quality of startups at Rocket Fuel is phenomenal.”
What are your hopes for the future of LEAP and its role in supporting The Garage?
Omar reflected that The Garage was constantly exploring new ways to collaborate with LEAP. For instance, last year they hosted a press conference and networking event at #LEAP2024. This year they are aiming for even more integration between both entities to maintain momentum and create a year-round holistic experience.
In closing, he had this to say: “Without LEAP, the garage wouldn’t have grown as it has. We’re excited for this year’s LEAP to showcase our startups and connect with the global community.”
Together LEAP and The Garage look set to continue to be a transformative force in Saudi Arabia and globally. By offering startups the right connections, unparalleled exposure and access to funding, they pave the way for a bright future for some of the world’s most innovative entrepreneurs.