The MDLBEAST Foundation announces the 2025 edition of Sound Futures, a dynamic new initiative designed to bridge the gap between visionary startups and top investors in the region. Aiming to create local jobs, foster entrepreneurship, and accelerate the regional music economy, Sound Futures will culminate in a live event during the XP Music Futures Conference, taking place on December 4–6, 2025, in Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), a few days before Soundstorm Festival (December 11-13).
Inspired by the format of the popular show Shark Tank, the Sound Futures event will give a stage to high-potential startups and entrepreneurs in the music and music-tech space to pitch their bold ideas to an audience of leading investors and industry experts. Sound Futures supports a wide range of participants—from early-stage concepts to fast-growing startups. Whether you’re an entrepreneur, a student with a bold idea, or a founder already gaining traction, the program helps turn vision into impact.
Participants receive comprehensive training through workshops, boot camps, and mentoring, alongside tailored courses on business planning, music trends, and investor readiness. The initiative also offers direct access to investors during XP Music Futures, as well as regional and international exposure through curated networking opportunities.
Sound Futures aligns with MDLBEAST Foundation’s mission to build a sustainable, inclusive music ecosystem. It aims to create local jobs across music production, events, and tech, while inspiring an entrepreneurial mindset through training and mentorship.
By connecting startups with global networks and strategic partners, the program accelerates regional industry growth. Most importantly, Sound Futures seeks out the next big innovations—ideas that will shape the future of how music is made, shared, and experienced.
Applications for startups and entrepreneurs are now open as of June 2025. Finalists will undergo a structured mentorship and pre-accelerator program beginning October, leading up to the final Sound Futures pitch event at XP Music Futures this December.
More infos about Sound Futures here.
