Riyadh: The Cultural Development Fund (CDF) has concluded its participation in the fifth edition of LEAP 2026, held at the Riyadh Exhibition and Convention Center from August 31 to September 3. The participation underscored the fund's ongoing efforts to position itself as a center of excellence and financial enabler within Saudi Arabia's cultural sector. It also highlighted the fund's commitment to helping the sector adapt to technological changes and turn these into concrete growth opportunities for cultural initiatives. According to Saudi Press Agency, during LEAP 2026, the CDF organized a panel discussion and an introductory workshop aimed at technology professionals, startups, and investors with an interest in the cultural sector. Basil Al Alola, the CDF Chief Business Officer, took part in a panel discussion that explored the potential for utilizing technology and artificial intelligence (AI) within the cultural sector. He also discussed the opportunities presented by the "AI Incentives for Cultural Pro jects" program. Additionally, Lama Alhemaid, the CDF Enablement Portfolio Director, led the introductory workshop. She emphasized the non-refundable financial incentives offered by the fund to encourage the integration of AI technologies in the development, production, or distribution of cultural products, services, and experiences. Alhemaid also explained the benefits, eligibility criteria, and evaluation process for these incentives, providing guidance to technology companies on how to leverage these opportunities.
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