We design and implement a deep tech commercialisation programme (KVP) using an extended Triple Helix model. In addition to Government, Academia and Industry, this model known as the Innovation Hexagon incorporates the entrepreneurial community, investment community and NGOs to accelerate lab to market success and deliver real world impact.

The purpose of STP's solution is to build a strong and complete innovation system that helps turn research into real world impact. This is called the Innovation Hexagon, a model that includes six key players: Government, Academia, Private Sector, Entrepreneurial Community, Investment Community and NGOs. It goes beyond the traditional Triple Helix model because modern innovation also needs funding, startups and social contribution to succeed. In this model, the Private Sector works with STP for IP licensing, spin offs and joint research, and shares market insights and funding. NGOs support social impact projects and CSR initiatives while benefiting from STP's technology advisory and research and development access. The Investment Community provides capital and commercialisation guidance, and STP offers validated startups, pilot projects and de risking support. The Entrepreneurial Community brings in startups, talent and support networks such as incubators and accelerators, and STP supports them with research facilities and technical advice. Government sets national priorities and incentives, and STP demonstrates socio economic impact and technology trends. Academia provides know how, laboratories and research outputs, and STP connects them to market needs and private sector opportunities. The Innovation Hexagon helps STP create a smarter, faster and more connected innovation system, turning research into solutions, growing startups and supporting national goals.

By extending the traditional Triple Helix model to include the Investment Community, NGOs, and the Entrepreneurial Community, the Innovation Hexagon introduces a more complete and dynamic ecosystem for innovation. At the center of this model, STP plays an active coordination role, connecting R&D assets, funding sources, and market needs. What makes it innovative is how STP bridges research, capital, and societal challenges—closing long-standing gaps between academic discoveries, government incentives, entrepreneurial action, and real market and social demands. This integrated model enables faster and more effective transitions from lab to market, ensuring innovations deliver real-world impact and national value.

62 research based deep tech projects were accepted, showing strong collaboration with academia and research centres. 46 startups graduated with a 74 percent completion rate, reflecting a healthy pipeline from the entrepreneurial community supported by STP facilities and mentorship. SAR 9.3 million in non dilutive funding was deployed through the government funding agency Saudi NTDP, showing strong government alignment and national innovation support. SAR 3 million was attracted from Jameel Community, an NGO, to run a follow up programme, highlighting the role of NGOs in supporting socially impactful innovation. 180 high skill jobs were created, demonstrating economic impact and value to the private sector and national workforce goals. 50 industry partners were engaged and 2 private sector licensing agreements were signed, showcasing effective technology transfer with the private sector. 6 KACST intellectual property assets were licensed to start-ups, indicating successful commercialisation through collaboration between the investment community and the entrepreneurial community. 180 individuals were trained in entrepreneurial skills, supporting a mindset shift and talent development within the entrepreneurial community.

Academic Researchers Start-up Founders Venture Investors

KACST Science & Technology Park (STP)