As part of the framework agreement signed between Mohammed Bin Salman Foundation “Misk” and the Gates Foundation, the two foundations have launched the “Challenge for Change” program, designed to empower Saudi non-profit organizations and social enterprises to lead innovative solutions addressing global development challenges.
The launch event took place on Sunday, April 27, 2025, at Mohammed Bin Salman Nonprofit City (Misk City), where both foundations celebrated participants who are actively contributing to positioning Saudi youth at the forefront of global innovation. Through a comprehensive, hands-on learning journey, the Challenge for change program reflects Misk’s vision as an integrated youth-focused ecosystem aimed at enabling Saudi youth to drive transformation and deliver positive impact both locally and globally.
Partnering with leading global institutions, including the Gates Foundation, the program provides young changemakers access to world-class expertise and content. The initiative focuses on solving critical development issues across three core tracks: Technology, Environment, and Health & Quality of Life. Over the course of seven weeks, participants will engage in an immersive learning experience that includes mentorship, training, and guided project development, with the opportunity to win up to SAR 1 million per track to support the implementation of their solutions.
The launch event also revealed the selection of 15 initiatives—drawn from Saudi nonprofit organizations and social enterprises—set to compete across the three tracks, further reinforcing the role of Saudi youth in advancing sustainable development both locally and internationally.
Dr. Badr Al Badr, CEO of Misk Foundation, stated:
“The ‘Challenge for Change’ program is more than just a competition—it is a practical platform that connects local youth energy with global expertise to create innovative, real-world solutions that address challenges impacting our communities. Our partnership with the Gates Foundation stands as an effective model of collaborative efforts driving meaningful impact”.
”James Carty, the Deputy Director for the Middle East at the Gates Foundation, said:
“This program is a testament to what’s possible when global and local partnerships align to drive change. Our collaboration with Misk enables young people in Saudi Arabia to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges, creating meaningful impact that extends beyond borders.”
Such initiative lead by Mohammed bin Salman Foundation “Misk” and Gates Foundation empowers Saudi youth by equipping them with essential skills across various life and career stages, nurturing future leaders, and supporting youth-led nonprofit organizations through a diverse portfolio of programs that create tangible community impact.
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