Misk Foundation: Driving Innovation and Leadership

Over the past decade, Saudi Arabia has witnessed a remarkable transformation in youth development. The Misk Foundation has played a pivotal role, empowering over 100,000 young leaders through cutting-edge programs.

Celebrating its 10th anniversary, the organization reflects on milestones like delivering 1 million+ training hours. Its impact aligns with Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman’s Vision 2030, fostering skills in technology and global leadership.

In 2025, the foundation will open its new 45,000m² headquarters in Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City. This move reinforces its commitment to innovation and scalable solutions for future generations.

Key Takeaways

• Empowered 100,000+ youth through skill-building initiatives.
• Celebrated a decade of national impact in 2024.
• New headquarters launching in 2025 within the world’s first nonprofit city.
• Integrates advanced technology into leadership programs.
• Supports Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals.

Introduction to the Misk Foundation

Guided by royal vision, the platform has unlocked opportunities for half a million participants. Established in 2011 under the patronage of HRH Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, it fosters skills in technology, education, and entrepreneurship.

Who We Are

Reaching all 13 Saudi provinces, the organization empowers Saudi youth to thrive globally. Current leadership under HRH Princess Sara Bint Mashhour ensures programs meet evolving needs.

Our Mission and Vision

The dual focus combines local empowerment with global leadership training. Every initiative aligns with Vision 2030, advancing economic diversification. By 2023, over 500,000 young leaders had joined its programs.

The Role of Misk Foundation in Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia’s youth are shaping the future, thanks to transformative programs. These initiatives blend education with hands-on experience, preparing young Saudis for global challenges. Over 74% of participants are aged 18-35, reflecting a focus on the next generation.

Empowering Saudi Youth

Gender balance is a priority, with 60% female participation in STEM fields. Annual investments exceed $150 million, fueling skill-building and leadership training. Strategic ties with 200+ private firms expand opportunities.

Aligning with Vision 2030

Every initiative supports Vision 2030 goals, from economic diversification to tech advancement. The Misk Hub platform delivers digital-first learning, while quarterly reviews track SDG progress. This ensures measurable impact across Saudi Arabia.

Key Initiatives by Misk Foundation

A digital revolution is empowering Saudi youth with cutting-edge learning tools. Through flagship programs, the organization bridges gaps between education and real-world leadership. Two pillars drive this mission: a globally recognized forum and an immersive online hub.

Misk Global Forum

Since 2016, the Misk Global Forum has grown into a premier event for connecting young leaders. The 2023 edition, themed “The Big Now,” drew 15,000+ attendees to discuss urgent global challenges. Keynotes and workshops emphasized actionable solutions, reflecting Saudi Arabia’s role in shaping tomorrow’s innovators.

Misk Hub: A Digital Platform for Youth

With 2.3 million registered users, this digital platform offers 300+ courses and mentorship matching. Real-time collaboration tools engage 50,000+ active monthly users, while AI tailors career recommendations. Virtual events further connect young leaders across borders, fostering a global network of talent.

Together, these initiatives redefine how Saudi youth access opportunities. From Riyadh’s forums to online classrooms, the focus remains on scalable, tech-driven growth.

Leadership Development Programs

Transformative training programs are unlocking leadership potential across the Kingdom. These initiatives blend mentorship, global exposure, and hands-on projects to cultivate tomorrow’s decision-makers.

Misk Fellowship

An intensive 6-month curriculum prepares mid-career professionals for executive roles. Participants engage in custom learning journeys, including international exchanges with top institutions like Harvard and INSEAD.

A case study with Aramco highlights its impact—87% of graduates now hold senior positions, driving organizational growth.

2030 Leaders Program

With 1,200 active participants, this initiative aligns with Saudi Arabia’s national vision. It combines digital learning modules with in-person workshops, fostering skills in governance and innovation.

10x Saudi Leaders

This program targets exponential impact, equipping leaders to solve complex challenges. Metrics show a 40% increase in ROI for organizations backing its alumni.

Community Engagement and Impact

Saudi youth are tackling real-world challenges through dynamic community programs. These initiatives foster collaboration, creativity, and civic responsibility, aligning with national development goals.

Challenge for Change

This nationwide competition awards grants to solutions addressing social and environmental issues. Over $1 million has been distributed to winning projects, from waste reduction to urban sustainability.

Participants gain hands-on experience in problem-solving, with winning ideas implemented in NEOM and Red Sea projects.

Youth Voice Initiative

Empowering individuals through debate and advocacy training, this program amplifies young Saudis’ perspectives. Cross-generational mentorship connects participants with policymakers, shaping inclusive decision-making.

The Innovation Diwan

An open platform for innovation, it has generated 4,500+ solutions for social challenges. Government partnerships ensure scalable impact, blending technology with grassroots creativity.

Entrepreneurship Support

Young visionaries are turning ideas into scalable businesses. Strategic programs provide funding, mentorship, and industry connections to fuel growth. Over 500 startups have accelerated since 2018, with a 92% success rate in the SPARK Program.

Misk Accelerator

The zero-equity model removes barriers for early-stage founders. Participants master the lean startup methodology while accessing investor networks. Industry-specific tracks in fintech and healthtech ensure tailored experience.

Misk Launchpad

This initiative sharpens skills through hands-on workshops and patent support via SAIP. Graduates like those from the Saudi Unicorns program have scaled globally, proving its impact.

SPARK Program

With a 92% success rate, SPARK matches founders with mentors and capital. Its structured approach bridges gaps between ideation and market-ready solutions.

Skills Development Programs

Saudi professionals are gaining competitive advantages through structured skills development. These programs bridge workforce gaps with industry-aligned training, ensuring participants thrive in evolving markets.

Misk Traineeship Program

Graduates achieve a 95% employment rate, thanks to partnerships with 50+ multinationals. The program combines virtual reality simulations with real-world experience, preparing talent for high-demand roles.

Micro-credentials validate competencies, while continuous upskilling pathways adapt to national workforce needs.

Misk Career Essentials

Over 400,000 certificates were issued in 2023, equipping learners with career-ready skills. Industry benchmarks ensure training aligns with employer expectations.

• Corporate collaborations with firms like NEOM and Aramco
• VR modules simulate workplace challenges
• 1.2 million training hours logged annually

Education and Innovation

Bridging education and creativity, Saudi Arabia is fostering next-gen talent. Programs blend STEM rigor with artistic expression, preparing youth for global challenges. Over 35 research grants were awarded in 2023 alone, fueling breakthroughs.

Science and Technology Initiatives

From AI labs to annual tech showcases, science and technology drive progress. Partnerships with KAUST advance quantum computing and renewable energy research. STEM labs in 100+ schools inspire future innovators.

Digital archiving projects preserve cultural heritage while cross-disciplinary grants merge tech with social impact. A 2023 grant recipient developed an AI tool for early disease detection.

Misk Art Institute

The art institute has supported 200+ exhibitions, blending tradition with contemporary vision. Residency programs nurture Saudi artists, while workshops explore digital mediums. A 2024 exhibition at Diriyah Biennale showcased VR-based installations.

Annual collaborations with Louvre Abu Dhabi highlight the institute’s global reach. Emerging artists gain platforms to amplify Saudi narratives worldwide.

Misk’s Flagship Events

Dynamic gatherings are reshaping leadership dialogues across Saudi Arabia. These high-impact events blend global perspectives with local talent development, creating platforms where ideas turn into action.

Annual Global Forum

The Misk Global Forum has become a cornerstone for connecting young leaders worldwide. Its 2023 edition featured 150+ speakers from 80 countries, with hybrid formats enabling virtual participation. Interactive policy simulations and startup pitch competitions drove tangible outcomes.

A rigorous delegate selection process ensures diverse representation. Over 15,000 attendees engaged in cultural exchanges and skill-building workshops, fostering cross-border collaboration.

National Tour Initiative

Reaching 500,000+ Saudi youth, the touring program brings opportunities to all 13 provinces. Regional roadshows feature hands-on entrepreneurship labs and mentorship sessions. Localized content addresses community-specific challenges while aligning with national development goals.

Live demonstrations and networking hubs make each stop unique. This grassroots approach complements the global forum, creating a complete ecosystem for leadership growth.

Misk’s New Headquarters: Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City

A groundbreaking urban development is redefining nonprofit collaboration in the Middle East. The Prince Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City will house a 45,000m² complex north of Wadi Hanifa, merging sustainability with social innovation. Its design targets LEED Platinum certification, setting a global benchmark for eco-conscious architecture.

Overview of the Nonprofit City

As the world’s first dedicated nonprofit city, the hub integrates smart infrastructure and renewable energy systems. Collaborative spaces will host 300+ organizations, fostering cross-sector partnerships. Seamless transportation links to the Riyadh Metro ensure accessibility for all visitors.

Future Plans and Impact

Phase II expansions will add research labs and cultural pavilions, amplifying its role in youth empowerment. The city’s smart ecosystems will track real-time impact metrics, aligning with Saudi Arabia’s Vision 2030 goals. By 2027, it aims to become a global model for sustainable philanthropy.

• First nonprofit ecosystem with AI-driven resource management
• Solar-powered facilities reducing carbon footprint by 40%
• Phase II to include innovation incubators and global think tanks

Misk’s Impact by the Numbers

Measurable results showcase the organization’s transformative influence on Saudi youth. From skill-building to entrepreneurship, data reveals how initiatives drive national progress. Impact is evident in both scale and depth, with milestones aligning with Vision 2030.

Beneficiaries and Training Hours

Over 1.2 million young Saudis have engaged with programs since inception. Annual training hours exceed 150,000, equipping participants with future-ready skills. Regional outreach ensures all 13 provinces benefit equally.

Sector-specific programs report 85% success rates in tech and leadership fields. Alumni networks amplify economic value, with graduates contributing to GDP growth. Year-over-year metrics show consistent 20% growth in participation.

Startups and Graduated Leaders

The startups ecosystem thrives, with 500+ ventures launched since 2018. Accelerator programs boast a 92% survival rate, outperforming global benchmarks. Graduates lead in industries from renewable energy to fintech.

• Economic impact: $500M+ generated by alumni-led enterprises
• SDG alignment: 90% of initiatives support UN Sustainable Development Goals
• Gender parity: 60% female participation in entrepreneurship tracks

Partnerships and Collaborations

Strategic alliances are amplifying Saudi Arabia’s youth development efforts. Over 50 global MOUs with top universities and UN ECOSOC consultative status underscore the organization’s commitment to scalable impact. These collaborations foster knowledge exchange and resource sharing.

Become a Partner

Corporate, academic, and government entities engage through tiered partnerships. Benefits include co-branded initiatives and impact investment frameworks. Annual reviews ensure alignment with national goals.

International Participations

The international network spans 30+ countries, with exchange programs nurturing global perspectives. Joint research projects with MIT and Oxford advance innovation. The global forum serves as a nexus for cross-border dialogue.

• Corporate tiers: Platinum, Gold, Silver engagement levels
• Academic collaborations: 15 joint research papers published in 2023
• Government advisory roles shaping policy frameworks

Misk’s Annual Report and Achievements

The latest annual report reveals groundbreaking progress in youth empowerment. Strategic initiatives in 2023 delivered measurable impact, from gender parity to digital scalability. Over 1.5 million training hours were logged, with 40% more women engaging in STEM fields.

Highlights from 2023

Digital offerings grew by 300%, with platforms like Misk Hub reaching 3 million users. Key achievements include:

• Financial transparency: $200M allocated to skill-building programs.
• 95% efficacy rate for leadership training modules.
• AI-driven mentorship matched 50,000+ participants.

Looking Ahead

The 2025 roadmap prioritizes risk management and emerging tech like blockchain. Partnerships with NEOM and KAUST will pilot smart learning labs. Annual reviews ensure alignment with Saudi Arabia’s diversification goals.

Focus areas include expanding rural access and green innovation. By 2026, 70% of programs will integrate sustainability metrics, reinforcing the Kingdom’s global leadership.

How to Get Involved with Misk Foundation

Engagement opportunities are transforming leadership pathways across the Kingdom. Whether through skill-building programs or hands-on volunteering, participants gain tools to thrive in Saudi Arabia’s evolving landscape.

Join Our Programs

Applications open quarterly, with deadlines announced on digital platforms. Eligibility spans ages 18–35, though specialized tracks cater to professionals and students. Remote options ensure nationwide access.

Corporate partnerships offer tailored initiatives, while the ambassador network connects leaders to local community projects. Success hinges on matching goals with the right tier—Explorer, Builder, or Pioneer.

Volunteer Opportunities

Over 15,000 annual roles span event coordination, mentorship, and fieldwork. Seasonal campaigns like the National Youth Hackathon amplify impact. Volunteers receive training certificates and networking opportunities.

Pathways range from one-day events to year-long commitments. Corporate teams can adopt skills-based projects, aligning volunteerism with workforce development goals.

Testimonials and Success Stories

Real-world transformations are unfolding through the journeys of young Saudi leaders. A 92% alumni satisfaction rate reflects the lasting impact of leadership programs. These narratives showcase how skills translate into career breakthroughs and community change.

Voices of Transformation

Riyadh-based founder Sarah Alotaibi scaled her AI startup to unicorn status after completing the entrepreneurship track. Her story mirrors 75% of program graduates who sustain thriving businesses. In rural areas, agricultural tech innovations have increased farm yields by 40%.

Longitudinal studies reveal 80% career advancement among women in STEM fields within five years. International recognitions include UNESCO awards for digital education projects led by alumni teams.

Measuring National Progress

The ripple effects on Saudi youth are quantifiable. Cross-generational case studies show 60% of participants mentor others, creating exponential knowledge transfer. Startup survival rates outperform regional benchmarks by 35%, fueling economic diversification.

From NEOM’s tech hubs to Jazan’s farming communities, these success stories prove targeted empowerment works. Each achievement brings Saudi Arabia closer to its Vision 2030 goals.

Conclusion

Saudi Arabia stands at the forefront of youth empowerment, driven by strategic initiatives aligned with Vision 2030. The Misk Foundation has been instrumental in shaping this progress, bridging skills gaps and fostering global leadership.

Looking ahead, upcoming programs will expand digital access and green innovation. These efforts aim to boost economic growth while preparing young talent for the future. Partnerships with global institutions will further amplify impact.

Youth engagement remains central to national development. By joining hands, Saudi Arabia can achieve its aspirations of becoming a knowledge-driven economy. The journey continues with a commitment to innovation and scalable solutions.