The National Transformation Institute (NTI) and the Office of the Vice President for Research are excited to launch The Commercialization Venture Studio, a new program for KAUST postdocs and Ph.D. students ready to transform their research into commercial ventures.
This isn’t a side project. It’s a new role
Through this program selected participants will be stepping into a dedicated founder position and receive $125,000 in funding support per venture to help bring their ideas to market. Participants hold postdoc-level benefits but do not work in a postdoc capacity since they will be focusing full-time on building their venture, and reporting to the program/ NTI – not their PI.
Flexible path to commercialization
A patent is not required to apply – defensibility can come from trade secrets, know-how, or execution speed, among other factors. Clearance from the Technology Transfer Office is required before admission (not at the application stage). There is no requirement to incorporate at the outset; the program uses a deferred equity model, with ventures expected to incorporate in Saudi Arabia, while remaining free to serve international customers or offices where there’s a commercial need.
Equity structure
The Venture Studio takes 15-20% deferred equity (a lump-sum KAUST stake inclusive of the IP component), with the remaining equity allocated among the founders. PIs may be included in the application and may hold founder equity or an advisory role, subject to KAUST policies.
How to apply
A support letter from the PI is required with every application to ensure access to lab facilities.
- 🔗 Applications: https://kaustec.acceleratorapp.co/apply/program/commercialization-venture-studio
- 📅 Deadline: October 25, 2026
- ✉️ Questions: jamil.madanat@kaust.edu.sa
We look forward to seeing the ventures this program helps bring to life!
National Transformation Institute (NTI) & Office of the Vice President for Research (OVPR)