Riyadh: The Social Development Bank (SDB) has announced its readiness to launch the second edition of the Entrepreneurship and Modern Business Practices Forum (DeveGo 2025), which will take place at the King Abdulaziz International Conference Center in Riyadh, from December 21 to 23, under the patronage of Minister of Human Resources and Social Development and Chairman of SDB’s Board of Directors Ahmed Al-Rajhi. This landmark forum aims to position itself as the region’s leading platform for entrepreneurship, innovation, and setting the latest trends in modern work practices, bringing together local and international entrepreneurs, investors, and thought leaders. This year’s edition of the forum will be held under the theme: ‘Don’t start from zero. start from DeveGo.’
According to Saudi Press Agency, DeveGo 2025 serves as a comprehensive national platform showcasing the latest trends in entrepreneurship through a range of diverse panel discussions, workshops, and other initiatives. The forum brings together
an elite group of local and international entrepreneurs, investors, experts, government leaders, as well as prominent global figures in innovation and entrepreneurship, reinforcing the forum’s international focus and enriches its agenda by enabling the sharing of the latest knowledge and experiences from diverse global markets.
DeveGo 2025 will witness the launch of a package of supportive programs and initiatives, including new financial products specifically designed to meet the needs of entrepreneurs and startups, in addition to the signing of strategic agreements and partnerships aimed at stimulating entrepreneurial ventures, creating opportunities, and empowering the most promising projects – all while opening new pathways for growth. The forum will also host the ‘NEXT UP Challenge,’ which will enable 20 startups to showcase their innovative projects and solutions before a panel of experts and specialists, while offering entrepreneurs a unique opportunity to connect with more than 50 local investors dur
ing the third day of the forum.
The forum will also present the ‘DeveGo Handicrafts Competition’, which celebrates high-quality small enterprises that have evolved into impactful success stories with clear economic and social impact. In addition, the ‘Salam Award for Promising Projects’ will be organized to encourage entrepreneurs and startup owners to present their projects in a smart and simplified manner on social media platforms.
Furthermore, DeveGo 2025 will offer participants and visitors a comprehensive, interactive, and knowledge-driven experience designed to enhance awareness of the entrepreneurship ecosystem, as well as financial and non-financial programs. This will include training and consultancy services to support growth across three main tracks: the ‘Inspiration Zone,’ focusing on modern technologies and the creative economy; the ‘Growth Zone,’ dedicated to modern business models, flexible work, franchising, and business development; and the ‘Entrepreneurship Zone,’ which highlights future e
conomic trends, venture capital, and sustainability.
