Supporting media and creative industry innovation with AI
Develop Real-World AI Applications for the Media Industry in KSA
Powered by
Llama Design Drive Saudi Arabia Cohort
An acceleration program designed to help startups explore real-world AI applications in collaboration with MBC
Llama Design Drive is a 4-week AI accelerator program organized in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. In partnership with The Garage and MBC Group, the largest media company in MENA, the program focuses on building innovative AI solutions for the Media Value Chain. Targeting Startups that can prove enhanced experience solutions to MBC’s ecosystem across its different touch points including GoBox, MBC Now, Shahid and linear TV
For inquiries contact us at Hello@llamadesigndrive.com
Program Journey
Cohort 2  Saudi Arabia

29 September 2024

Application Open

26 October 2024

Application Close

27 October - 3 November 2024

Selection Days

10 November - 5 December 2024

Solutions Development Workshops

8 December 2024

Pitching Day

AI Development Themes
Build AI solutions for the Media Value Chain 
Our program focuses on two main AI development themes in the media industry. Participants are encouraged to develop innovative solutions within these themes, contributing to the advancement of AI applications in media and enhancing the overall value chain.
User Experience

Enhancing the MBC User Experience through AI Solutions

This theme focuses on leveraging AI to significantly improve user experiences across MBC’s digital platforms. By integrating AI-driven solutions, the goal is to personalize interactions, enhance engagement, and increase user satisfaction across MBC’s content library.

Content Creation

AI-Powered Content Creation & Management

This theme revolves around utilizing AI to streamline the content creation and management processes within MBC. The goal is to optimize media production workflows, enhance creative outputs, and improve the management and accessibility of MBC’s vast media assets.

Partnerships
Expanding Horizons: Collaborating with MBC and The Garage to shape the future of AI innovation in the Media and Creative space
Meta presents the Llama Design Drive, a cutting-edge AI accelerator program powered by Startupbootcamp and strategically partnered with The Garage and MBC Group to support the AI ecosystem in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. This initiative is designed to propel startups to the forefront of AI innovation, equipping them with the necessary tools and knowledge to develop and pitch transformative AI solutions for the media industry.
Powered by
Program Tracks
Tailored Innovation Across UAE, KSA, and Egypt
This program is designed to address unique business challenges faced by industry leaders  KSA that can be solved for using Generative AI. By partnering with the largest media company in MENA, we aim to leverage AI's transformative power to meet critical media industry-specific needs and opportunities.
Tracks
Saudi Arabia
Applications Closed
Download Challenge Themes
United Arab Emirates
Applications Closed
Egypt
Opening Soon

Who Should Apply

Ideal for those looking to immerse themselves in cutting-edge AI innovation and accelerate existing Generative AI technologies

AI Startups 

Are you at the forefront of AI innovation? We're seeking startups that push the boundaries of generative AI technology and are poised to apply their solutions to real-world business challenges. Join us to accelerate your growth, gain industry recognition, and collaborate with leading industry players.

AI Development Companies

Expertise in developing and scaling AI solutions is in high demand. If your agency specializes in custom AI services and seeks to expand its impact through high-profile projects, this program provides the ideal platform and the essential partnerships to elevate your business.

Software & Data Science Engineers

Whether you’re a freelancer or part of a larger tech company, if you have skills in software development with a passion for AI applications, this program can help you connect with major industry challenges. Enhance your technical portfolio by working on real-world projects that require innovative AI solutions.

Universities

Academic institutions and university-affiliated teams or labs focusing on AI research are encouraged to apply. This is a perfect opportunity to transition theoretical knowledge into practical solutions, engage with industry leaders, and contribute to pioneering AI advancements that could shape the future of technology.

Program Goals
Driving Business Innovation with Generative AI
The program aims to revolutionize the integration of Generative AI in the media industry of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia by encouraging media industry collaboration to realize innovative use-cases. Our goal is to cultivate ground-breaking applications that not only meet current market needs but also set new standards for AI utility in business and attracting startups that can prove enhanced experience solutions to MBC’s ecosystem across its different touch points including GoBox, MBC Now, Shahid and linear TV.
Why participate
Unlock Your Potential in AI Innovation
Join us to access Meta's advanced AI technologies and connect with the leading media company in the MENA region. Benefit from expert mentorship, expand your network, and gain recognition in the industry. This program is your gateway to transforming innovative ideas into scalable solutions for the media industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Everything You Need to Know About the Llama Design Drive Program

The program is open to AI Startups, AI Development Companies, Universities and  Software or Data Engineers that are eager to leverage advanced AI technologies to build AI solutions for the media industry. We are looking for innovative and scalable solutions that can make a significant impact.

You can apply to the program by filling out the application form on our website. Make sure to provide detailed information about you.

Candidates selected into the program will have the opportunity to be fast-tracked into a global program sponsored by Meta with the chance of receiving up to US$500,000 to support further development of their products. Participants will receive mentorship from industry experts, and collaborate with the leading media company in MENA to develop AI solutions for the media industry. Additionally, participants will benefit from capacity-building workshops, networking opportunities, and increased visibility.

Each cohort runs for 4 weeks of intensive in-person and virtual capacity-building workshops. The program also includes ongoing mentorship and support throughout the duration.

The program in partnership with The Garage and MBC, the largest media company in MENA. These partners will present the opportunity to develop real-world AI applications for the media industry.

The Llama Design Drive program will operate on a hybrid model. Some workshops and sessions will be conducted online, while others will be held in person. This approach ensures flexibility and accessibility for all participants, while also providing valuable face-to-face interaction during key parts of the program.

For more information about the Llama Design Drive program, please contact us at hello@llamadesigndrive.com