Cultural Development Fund launches AI incentives for cultural projects

The Cultural Development Fund has announced the launch of 'AI Incentives for Cultural Projects' in partnership with the Ministry of Culture and the Quality of Life Program—one of the Vision 2030 realization programs—and in collaboration with the Saudi Data and Artificial Intelligence Authority (SDAIA). This initiative marks the first track of the 'Nama Incentives,' which aims to support cultural projects in key areas aligned with national objectives, enhancing their capacity for growth and innovation to maximize their economic and social impact and ensure sustainability.

This track targets micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises seeking to adopt or develop artificial intelligence technologies within their cultural sector projects. Eligible projects can receive financial incentives of up to 500,000 riyals (SAR), enabling them to develop and implement innovative AI-based solutions.

The initiative focuses on six main areas: creativity and production, heritage and asset preservation, content and knowledge enrichment, enhancing cultural experiences and participation, management and operation of cultural projects, and governance and intellectual property. The goal is to foster innovative solutions that support various value chain activities and advance digital transformation in the cultural sector.

The 'AI Incentives for Cultural Projects' coincide with the Year of Artificial Intelligence and build on the tripartite agreement signed between the Ministry of Culture, the Cultural Development Fund, and SDAIA. The agreement aims to enable the adoption of advanced technologies in the cultural sector, support innovation, improve operational efficiency and competitiveness, and develop cultural products and services to prepare the sector for future demands.

Cultural Development Fund CEO Majid bin Abdulmohsen Al-Hogail said: "The launch of AI Incentives for Cultural Projects reflects a strategic direction to empower the cultural sector to benefit from advanced technologies as a driver of innovation and growth. We believe that integrating AI into cultural projects will help develop more valuable products, services, and experiences, opening new horizons for investment and entrepreneurship, enhancing sector sustainability, and increasing its contribution to the creative economy in line with Vision 2030 objectives."

The Cultural Development Fund has invited organizations interested in developing technology solutions or creating AI-based cultural products, services, or experiences to review the requirements and details of 'AI Incentives for Cultural Projects' by visiting the Fund's website: https://cdf.gov.sa/،. Applications are open from today until September 29, 2026.

'Nama Incentives' are part of the Cultural Development Fund's role as a center of excellence and financial enabler for the cultural sector, supporting its sustainable growth and maximizing its impact on the creative economy, in line with the National Culture Strategy and Vision 2030.