Jeddah: The second edition of the Saudi Industry Forum continued in Jeddah today for its third day, featuring a presentation by Umm Al-Qura University on pathways for transforming innovative concepts into bankable, scalable ventures.

According to Saudi Press Agency, the presentation was delivered by Umm Al-Qura University Associate Professor and Pharmathon Founder Dr. Sharaf Al Sharaf. He outlined the entrepreneurial lifecycle, starting with identifying a genuine market need and validating feasibility. The process advances through product development and achieving market fit, culminating in securing capital, scaling operations, and achieving sustainable growth.

The presentation detailed key metrics sought by investors, including team competency, addressable market size, competitive advantage, proven economic viability, and precise capital allocation plans. It also highlighted critical entrepreneurial skills, including strategic planning, adaptability, leadership, negotiation, and resource and risk management.

Al Sharaf concluded that transitioning from innovation to investment requires an integrated roadmap anchored in market validation and proven commercial viability before seeking external financing and expansion.