Saudi foundation commits $2.6m to advance aging sciences

Hevolution Foundation, headquartered in Riyadh, is a nonprofit funded by the Saudi government, aiming to invest up to $1 billion annually in aging research and healthspan science.

Established by royal decree in 2018 and led by Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, it officially began operations in 2021, pioneering the support of independent research and entrepreneurship in healthspan science.

The foundation recently selected 11 Saudi researchers in the field of aging sciences to receive two-year grants worth SR10 million ($2.6 million).

Each researcher will receive a grant of SR500,000, making the program one of the most impactful initiatives in the field of aging in Saudi Arabia.

The researchers are affiliated with King Faisal Specialist Hospital and Research Centre, King Abdullah International Medical Research Center, King Saud bin Abdulaziz University for Health Sciences, Taif University, Al-Maarefa University, Jazan University, and King Abdullah University of Science and Technology.

Dr. Mehmood Khan, the foundation’s CEO, told Arab News: “More than mere research funding, it’s another defining moment that continues to establish Saudi Arabia as a rising global epicenter in this vital field by investing in its talent today for a better tomorrow.”

Khan said: “As the Hevolution Foundation continues working tirelessly to catalyze the healthspan field, this strategic initiative serves as both a nurturing ground and a launchpad for Saudi Arabia’s burgeoning intellectual prowess in aging biology.”

In addition to these initiatives, the foundation has committed over SR750 million in global funding to accelerate and transform contributions to healthy aging research and development.

The foundation has also expanded its reach with a dynamic investment team in Boston, Massachusetts, to enhance its global presence and strengthen ties with the life sciences community.

In the coming years, the foundation aims to establish hubs in various locations to foster a global talent ecosystem, advancing aging and geroscience research for healthier, longer lives.

The Global Healthspan Summit 2023, which will be hosted by Hevolution Foundation in Riyadh on Nov. 29-30, brings together over 100 global thought leaders, including scientists, policymakers, business leaders, and innovators, to emphasize the power of global collaboration in the field.

Princess Dr. Haya Khaled Al-Saud, the foundation’s VP for organizational strategy and development, told Arab News: “Each one of us holds a piece of the puzzle in creating a future where aging is not a limitation but a period of vitality and health.

“This summit will serve as an epicenter for insights, networking, and potential real-world solutions that will empower us to bring about lasting change for everyone,” she added.