Mazin Alzaidi

Professional Background

Mazin Alzaidi is an accomplished professional currently serving on the investment attraction and development team at the Saudi Arabian General Investment Authority (SAGIA). With a specialized focus on venture investment development, Mazin plays a pivotal role in enhancing the startup ecosystem in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. His dedication to innovation and entrepreneurship has made significant waves in the local and global startup landscapes. Notably, he has spearheaded various initiatives such as the acclaimed VENTURE by Invest Saudi, which successfully attracted over 25 foreign venture capital (VC) firms to the Kingdom. Furthermore, he is instrumental in bringing the prestigious SoftBank Vision Fund Portfolio Companies to Saudi Arabia, thereby contributing to the country's economic diversification and growth.

Before returning to his home country, Mazin spent a significant eight years immersed in the dynamic startup tech and innovation ecosystem of London. He embarked on his entrepreneurial journey in 2012 while pursuing his postgraduate studies at the renowned University of Warwick. It was here that he launched his first business from the university library, illustrating his strong dedication to entrepreneurship and innovation. Over the years, Mazin has managed a myriad of projects across major global tech hubs such as London, Tokyo, and San Francisco, further broadening his expertise and network in the tech industry.

Mazin's commitment to research and development is evident through his work at the Cyber Security Center in the International Digital Lab (IDL) at the University of Warwick, where he conducted his Ph.D. research. His research focused on safeguarding intellectual assets in agile business environments, including incubators, accelerators, and innovation labs. This academic endeavor not only showcases his commitment to advancing knowledge in cyber security but also aligns perfectly with his professional initiatives to foster innovation in Saudi Arabia.

In addition to his roles in investment and innovation, Mazin has also contributed to academia as a guest lecturer at the University of Warwick, sharing his insights on corporate innovation. His extensive experience and expertise have led him to be a sought-after speaker at numerous conferences and events centered around innovation and entrepreneurship, solidifying his reputation as a thought leader in the field.