Visa has launched a new edition of the Saudi Arabia She’s Next program to empower women entrepreneurs in the kingdom. This initiative, in partnership with Saudi Awwal Bank and Monsha’at, provides funding, mentorship, and national exposure for women-led businesses.
The Saudi Arabia She’s Next program encourages women entrepreneurs from all industries to apply. It welcomes both established founders and newcomers with innovative, high-growth ideas. Participants will gain opportunities to secure equity-free funding and benefit from expert guidance to scale their ventures.
However, the program will select five finalists who will compete in a national pitch event. Judges will award three winners a combined USD 60,000 in grants. The top winner will receive USD 30,000, while the second place earns USD 20,000. The People’s Favorite award offers USD 10,000, allowing the public to support their favorite entrepreneur.
Haya Sawan, a prominent Saudi fitness expert and wellness entrepreneur, will mentor participants. She leads multiple ventures, including SheFit and Playball Saudi, and serves on the Saudi Surfing Federation board. Her experience shows how women can succeed through entrepreneurship, health, and community engagement.
Visa, Saudi Awwal Bank, and Monsha’at have designed this program to help women grow their businesses and inspire economic transformation. By combining financial support with expert mentorship, they aim to create an ecosystem that nurtures women leaders and encourages innovation.
The Saudi Arabia She’s Next program aligns with national goals to strengthen women’s roles in the economy. It also supports small and medium enterprises (SMEs), helping female founders access tools and networks for sustainable growth.
This initiative highlights how global partnerships empower local talent. Women entrepreneurs gain exposure, resources, and confidence to overcome business challenges and expand their impact. With growing support, they can build ventures that transform industries and communities.
Applicants selected as finalists will join a competitive process that celebrates creativity and leadership. Each step prepares them to enhance their operations and attract investors or partners for further expansion.
The Saudi Arabia She’s Next program illustrates how strategic collaborations can drive inclusive economic growth. Women-led businesses often bring fresh perspectives and solutions, contributing significantly to Saudi Arabia’s diversification goals.
Nevertheless, Visa and its partners remain committed to supporting female entrepreneurs. They see this initiative as a catalyst for more women-led success stories and a stronger entrepreneurial ecosystem in Saudi Arabia.
