Gaming Accelerator 'Exel By Merak' Announces Launch of Second Cohort

Gaming accelerator Exel by Merak, backed by Saudi investment firm Merak Capital, has announced the launch of its second cohort and is offering each selected startup up to $300,000 in combined funding and support, comprising $150,000 in cash plus $150,000 in in-kind services.

The 16-week accelerator is tailored for early-stage startups working in game development or gaming-technology platforms. 19 participants - picked from over 300 applicants - will benefit from access to mentorship, industry networks, workshops on commercialisation and go-to-market strategies, and potential follow-on investment. Applications are open to both local Saudi-Arabia-based startups and international ventures willing to relocate or establish a presence in the Kingdom.

The launch of Cohort 2 builds on a broader agenda to position Saudi Arabia as a global hub for gaming innovation. The initiative aligns with national objectives to diversify the economy, foster technology-driven entrepreneurship and create regional export-oriented gaming businesses.

Startups selected for Cohort 2 will join a growing alumni community, gain connections to publishers, investors and platforms and receive support designed to move from prototype to monetised product.