Unprecedented participation from 169 countries sets the stage for Saudi Arabia’s $1.5M startup showdown, spotlighting global innovation and entrepreneurial talent.
Riyadh is set to become the global epicenter of innovation this year as the 2025 Entrepreneurship World Cup (EWC) prepares for its grand finals in Saudi Arabia. The competition, now in its latest edition, has witnessed unprecedented global participation, with over 10,000 project submissions from entrepreneurs representing 169 countries — a remarkable figure that doubles last year’s total entries.
The EWC has evolved into one of the world’s largest and most diverse startup competitions, offering a total prize pool of $1.5 million in cash and in-kind support. The event serves as a vital platform for startups at all stages, from early ideation to established scale-ups, enabling them to pitch their ideas, connect with global investors, and access mentorship from industry leaders.
Backed by major partners such as Bayt.com, PwC Middle East, and leading Saudi institutions, the EWC reflects the Kingdom’s growing influence in fostering entrepreneurship and positioning itself as a regional hub for innovation.
Beyond the prize money, the competition promises winners global exposure, networking opportunities, and access to accelerator programs that can propel their ventures onto the world stage. With record-breaking entries and a strong representation from emerging markets, the 2025 edition is set to showcase the future of entrepreneurship — from groundbreaking tech solutions to transformative social impact projects.
As Riyadh welcomes the brightest entrepreneurial minds, the EWC finals are not only a contest but a celebration of human creativity, ambition, and the shared drive to solve some of the world’s most pressing challenges.
