Prince Mohammed Bin Salman College of Business & Entrepreneurship (MBSC) Market Research Report

Background

Established in 2016, the Prince Mohammed Bin Salman College of Business & Entrepreneurship (MBSC) is a premier private educational institution located in King Abdullah Economic City, Saudi Arabia. The college was founded through a strategic partnership involving Emaar The Economic City, Babson Global (a subsidiary of Babson College, USA), Lockheed Martin, and the Prince Mohammed bin Salman bin Abdulaziz Foundation (MiSK). MBSC's mission is to cultivate a new generation of transformative leaders equipped with practical, hands-on experiential learning. This aligns with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030, aiming to diversify the economy and foster innovation.

Key Strategic Focus

MBSC's strategic focus centers on delivering world-class education tailored to the evolving needs of the business and entrepreneurial sectors. The college offers programs such as the Executive MBA, Master in Finance, and Master in Management, emphasizing experiential learning and leadership development. Key objectives include:

• Developing Transformative Leaders: Equipping students with the skills to navigate complex business environments and drive innovation.

• Fostering Entrepreneurial Mindsets: Instilling an entrepreneurial approach to problem-solving and opportunity recognition.

• Aligning with Vision 2030: Contributing to the Kingdom's economic diversification and growth through education and research.

Financials and Funding

As a private institution, MBSC's funding primarily comes from its strategic partners and tuition fees. The college has not publicly disclosed specific financial details or recent funding rounds. However, the establishment of strategic partnerships with entities like NEOM, stc, ROSHN, Dr. Sulaiman Al-Habib Medical Group, Saudi Food and Drug Authority, SNB Capital, EA Sports, Bloomberg, Happiness Creators, The Financial Academy, Lucidya, and Fakeeh Care Group in 2023 indicates a robust financial foundation and a growing demand for its programs.

Pipeline Development

MBSC continually updates its curriculum and program offerings to meet the dynamic needs of the business world. The college has recently introduced the Master in Finance program, aiming to develop future financial leaders. Additionally, MBSC has been actively involved in hosting and participating in international conferences, such as the International Entrepreneurship Research Conference (IERC 2025), to stay at the forefront of entrepreneurial research and education.

Technological Platform and Innovation

MBSC leverages advanced technological platforms to enhance its educational offerings, including:

• Digital Learning Environments: Utilizing online platforms to deliver flexible and accessible education.

• Data Analytics: Employing data-driven approaches to assess student performance and program effectiveness.

• Collaborative Tools: Integrating tools that facilitate collaboration among students, faculty, and industry partners.

Leadership Team

The leadership team at MBSC comprises experienced professionals dedicated to the college's mission:

• Dr. Zeger Degraeve: Executive Dean, with a background in business education and a focus on strategic leadership.

• Professor Muhammad Azam Roomi: GEM Saudi Arabia Team Lead, specializing in entrepreneurship research and education.

• Fahd Al-Rasheed: Vice Chairman of MBSC’s Board of Trustees, also serving as President of the Royal Commission for Riyadh City.

Market Insights and Competitor Analysis

The Saudi Arabian higher education sector is experiencing significant growth, with a strong emphasis on entrepreneurship and business education. The Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) National Report 2023-2024 highlights a record 42% of adults intending to start their own businesses within the next three years, indicating a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem.

Key competitors in the region include:

• King Fahd University of Petroleum and Minerals (KFUPM): Offers comprehensive business programs with a focus on technology and innovation.

• King Saud University (KSU): Provides a wide range of business and entrepreneurship courses, supported by extensive research facilities.

• Prince Sultan University (PSU): Known for its business administration programs and strong industry connections.

MBSC differentiates itself through its specialized focus on entrepreneurship, strategic partnerships with global institutions, and alignment with Saudi Arabia's Vision 2030.

Strategic Collaborations and Partnerships

MBSC has established strategic partnerships with various organizations to enhance its educational offerings and research capabilities:

• Babson Global: Provides expertise in entrepreneurial leadership, contributing to curriculum development and faculty training.

• MiSK Foundation: Supports initiatives aimed at fostering youth leadership and innovation.

• Lockheed Martin: Collaborates on research and development projects, particularly in technology and innovation sectors.

Operational Insights

MBSC's strategic location in King Abdullah Economic City offers proximity to a growing business hub, facilitating industry collaborations and providing students with real-world exposure. The college's emphasis on experiential learning and its strong industry connections position it as a leading institution for aspiring entrepreneurs and business leaders in the region.

Strategic Opportunities and Future Directions

Looking ahead, MBSC aims to:

• Expand Program Offerings: Introduce new programs that address emerging business trends and technologies.

• Enhance Research Initiatives: Strengthen research capabilities to contribute to the global discourse on entrepreneurship and business innovation.

• Foster Global Partnerships: Build alliances with international institutions to offer students diverse perspectives and opportunities.