Cultivating Innovation: UK Agri-Food Tech Businesses Explore Opportunities in Saudi Arabia

Thirteen pioneering UK businesses recently embarked on a transformative journey to the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) as part of Innovate UK’s Global Business Innovation Programme (GBIP), focused on the agri-food tech sector. This initiative marked a significant step in fostering international collaboration, unlocking new market potential, and driving innovation in sustainable agriculture and food production.

A Strategic Gateway to Global Growth

The GBIP is a structured 9–12 month programme that supports UK SMEs with global ambitions. It begins with a preparation phase, followed by a market visit and concludes with a post-visit workshop aimed at helping participants turn insights into actionable strategies. Throughout the journey, each business receives tailored support from an Innovate UK innovation and growth specialist to maximise the impact of their involvement.

In Riyadh, the cohort attended the Saudi Agriculture Conference and engaged with local stakeholders across multiple regions. The visit offered a deep dive into the challenges and opportunities within the Saudi agri-food ecosystem, from precision crop technologies, livestock and aquaculture health solutions, and circular economy approaches to agricultural waste. These meetings offered valuable insights into the local market and opened doors to potential collaborations and bilateral funding opportunities.

Building Bridges Between Innovation Ecosystems

More than just a market visit, the GBIP helps businesses refine their international value proposition, build confidence, and expand their networks. By connecting UK innovators with Saudi partners, the programme lays the foundation for long-term R&D collaborations and commercial success in a region that is investing heavily in food security and sustainable agriculture.

This visit to KSA exemplifies how UK businesses can lead on the global stage, bringing cutting-edge solutions to new markets and learning from diverse innovation ecosystems.

Learn more about the programme here.