---
title: TAQADAM Eligibility Criteria & Requirements Category
description: eligibility, requirements, MVP, solo founder, industry agnostic, criteria, team size
---
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1. [TAQADAM](https://hubspot.kaust.edu.sa/taqadam?hsLang=en)
2. [Program Information](https://hubspot.kaust.edu.sa/taqadam/program-information?hsLang=en)
3. [Eligibility](https://hubspot.kaust.edu.sa/taqadam/program-information?hsLang=en#eligibility)
January 13, 2026
# TAQADAM Eligibility Criteria & Requirements Category
## TAQADAM is an industry-agnostic accelerator program open to startups from all sectors. To get accepted into the program, you need a strong, scalable, and innovative idea with a solid, multi-member founding team (at least two people), demonstrating a clear market need, and a full commitment to the intensive six-month program, showing potential for regional expansion and strong technical execution. Focus on a novel solution using innovative technology, a big market, and a passionate team ready to work hard.
**Core Requirements:**
**1. Meet Eligibility & Commitment Requirements: **
**Team Size:** We require a team of at least two founders. Solo founders are encouraged to find a co-founder before applying, as exceptions are rare.
**Stage:** Your product should be post-MVP (Minimum Viable Product) with evidence of traction, such as customer interviews, signed letters of intent, or early sales.
**Commitment:** Founders must be fully committed to the 6-month program.
**Exclusivity:** You should not be enrolled in another incubator or accelerator during the TAQADAM cycle.
\*International Teams: Must have a clear plan to expand into Saudi Arabia.
**Industry Focus** TAQADAM is industry-agnostic. We accept applications from all sectors, including Fintech, Healthtech, Sustainability, and more. All applications are reviewed based on merit, team strength, and scalability, without preference for a specific vertical.
**Language** Applications can be submitted in Arabic or English. However, the program delivery, mentorship, and communications are conducted in English. Therefore, at least one team member must be proficient in English.
**2. Craft a Strong Application: **
**Online Application:** Complete all sections thoroughly; missing information leads to disqualification.
**One-Minute Video:** Provide a compelling first look at your team and idea.
**Strong Idea:** Must be novel, scalable, and solve a real problem.
**Innovative Technology:** Show use of novel tech (AI, robotics, etc.), not just simple apps/websites, with strong technical execution.
**3. Demonstrate Key Strengths: **
**Team Fit:** Show a team with diverse skills and backgrounds, capable of building and executing prototypes.
**Market Fit:** Explain how your team's unique insights led to this sustainable business idea.
**Scalability:** Focus on solutions that can grow significantly in the region (MENA).
**4. Prepare for the Interview: **
\* Be ready to articulate your vision, demonstrate market understanding, and show your team's unique ability to succeed in your chosen industry (Energy, Health, Fintech, etc.).
By highlighting innovation, market potential, a dedicated team, and a clear path for growth, you increase your chances of acceptance into the TAQADAM Accelerator.
- [Program Information](https://hubspot.kaust.edu.sa/taqadam/program-information?hsLang=en#main-content)
- [Application Process](https://hubspot.kaust.edu.sa/taqadam/program-information?hsLang=en#application-process)
- [Eligibility](https://hubspot.kaust.edu.sa/taqadam/program-information?hsLang=en#eligibility)
- [Funding](https://hubspot.kaust.edu.sa/taqadam/program-information?hsLang=en#funding)
- [International Support](https://hubspot.kaust.edu.sa/taqadam/program-information?hsLang=en#international-support)
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- [Community](https://hubspot.kaust.edu.sa/taqadam/community?hsLang=en#main-content)
- [Mentorship & Careers](https://hubspot.kaust.edu.sa/taqadam/community?hsLang=en#mentorship-careers)
- [Partnerships](https://hubspot.kaust.edu.sa/taqadam/partnerships?hsLang=en#main-content)
- [Collaboration](https://hubspot.kaust.edu.sa/taqadam/partnerships?hsLang=en#collaboration)
- [Investor Relations](https://hubspot.kaust.edu.sa/taqadam/partnerships?hsLang=en#investor-relations)
- [General](https://hubspot.kaust.edu.sa/taqadam/general?hsLang=en#main-content)
- [Program Information](https://hubspot.kaust.edu.sa/taqadam/general?hsLang=en#program-information)
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