Social Development Bank Launches the "Jada 30" Program and the "Camel Hackathon" in Hail

His Royal Highness Prince Abdulaziz bin Saad bin Abdulaziz Al Saud, Governor of Hail, inaugurated the "Jada 30" branch, one of the Social Development Banks’s (SDB), non-financial services initiative aimed at enhancing comprehensive and balanced development in the Hail region. The event was attended by His Royal Highness Prince Faisal bin Fahd bin Muqrin Al Saud, Deputy Governor of Hail, SDB’s CEO, Sultan bin Abdulaziz Al-Hamidi, along with several regional officials, entrepreneurs, and business leaders.

During the event, His Royal Highness was briefed on the "Jada 30" program, a major initiative designed to accommodate the largest possible number of beneficiaries, equipped with all the necessary facilities to support entrepreneurship and freelance. His Royal Highness praised the pioneering role of SDB in promoting sustainable development and driving economic growth in the region. With this inauguration of this branch, the number of 'Jada 30' branches rises to 11, with plans for further expansion in the future.

Alongside the inauguration of "Jada 30", the "Camel Hackathon" is taking place, in alignment with the "Year of the Camel", reflecting the vision of His Royal Highness Prince Mohammed bin Salman on the importance of this sector as part of Saudi Arabia’s national heritage. This sector serves as a cornerstone for sustainable economic development, aligning with Saudi Vision 2030. Through this hackathon, SDB aims to promote innovation in traditional sectors by developing innovative technological solutions that enhance the camel sector in the Kingdom.

The hackathon brings together entrepreneurs, developers, and experts. Over 600 participants registered, and 22 teams were selected to participate with their ideas. A judging panel, composed of top experts from the Hail region, will assess the projects. The hackathon will run for two months, culminating in the announcement of five winning projects that will receive cash prizes. These winning projects will then enter a nine-month incubation phase at "Jada 30" to ensure their sustainability and growth.

On this occasion, the CEO of SDB, Mr. Al-Hamidi, stated: "The launch of the 'Jada 30' program is part of SDB’s vision to promote sustainable development in the Hail region. It contributes to the supporting entrepreneurs and startups while fostering innovation. We believe in our role in empowering the local community by providing a comprehensive business environment that enhances opportunities for success and aligns with the aspirations of Saudi Vision 2030. Through these initiatives, we aim to strengthen strategic partnerships that drive economic and social growth at both the regional and national levels. "

Since its establishment, SDB has provided Hail with funding amounting to 4.5 billion Saudi riyals, benefiting over 113,000 citizens. This funding has been distributed across various sectors, with social loans accounting for 3.3 billion Saudi riyals and funding for freelance work and productive families totaling 600 million Saudi riyals, along with 600 million Saudi riyals for startups and small businesses. Regarding non-financial services, initiatives, and special programs, SDB has implemented several regional projects to foster entrepreneurship and economic empowerment. More than 14,000 citizens have benefited from initiatives promoting a culture of saving, and over 9,000 individuals have participated in programs promoting a culture of work, with 5,400 citizens benefiting from specialized training programs providing the skills and knowledge necessary for success in the job market. Additionally, 256 million Saudi riyals have been allocated to the non-profit sector to create financial sustainability for associations in the Hail region and increase their financial revenues.