JEDDAH: Jeddah launched its first “artificial intelligence laboratory” on Friday, a groundbreaking program designed to accelerate the growth of local entrepreneurs and emerging businesses.

The Start Smart Entrepreneurship Center is spearheading the initiative with backing from the Community Jameel Saudi Foundation.

The comprehensive program creates an immersive environment where startup founders, business owners and aspiring entrepreneurs can harness AI technologies to transform their ventures, SPA reported. The lab establishes a dynamic networking hub connecting participants with innovation hubs, business accelerators, service providers and successful graduates from previous Start Smart cohorts.

The laboratory operates through three pathways.

Professional practitioners lead “enrichment encounters,” sharing insights on implementing AI solutions across various industries.

The “technology toolkit” component provides intensive workshops where industry experts guide participants through practical AI applications tailored for startup development.

A “mentor connect” service offers one-on-one consultations with experienced business leaders, enabling participants to tap into proven strategies and learn from both successes and setbacks in the entrepreneurial journey, SPA reported.