Cutting-edge technologies and a burgeoning startup ecosystem are reshaping the construction industry, and Saudi Arabia is positioning itself at the forefront of this transformation. The recently concluded LEAP 2025 tech conference in Riyadh served as a vivid testament to the Kingdom’s ambitions, showcasing a flurry of funding rounds, acquisitions, and expansion plans that are setting the stage for a technologically advanced and sustainable construction sector.
At the heart of this revolution is BRKZ, a Saudi Arabia-based contech startup that announced the completion of a $17 million series A extension during the conference. This substantial investment, backed by a consortium of global investors including Capifly, BECO Capital, Aramco’s Waed, and 9900 Capital, underscores the growing confidence in construction technology. BRKZ, founded by Ibrahim Manna, is pioneering a B2B platform that connects suppliers and buyers, offering diverse delivery and payment options. With a total capital raised now standing at $22.5 million, BRKZ is poised to streamline supply chains, enhance project management, and drive efficiency—all critical elements for sustainable construction practices.
The integration of fintech into the construction ecosystem is another pivotal trend highlighted at LEAP 2025. Tabby, a leading buy now, pay later platform, secured $160 million in a series E funding round, doubling its valuation to $3.3 billion. This influx of capital not only strengthens Tabby’s financial services but also signals a broader shift towards innovative financing models in construction. By handling $10 billion in annualized transaction volumes, Tabby is demonstrating the viability of flexible payment solutions, which could revolutionize how construction projects are funded and managed.
Buildnow, another Saudi-based startup, exemplifies this trend. The company raised $9.7 million to expand its SME-focused construction financing platform. Buildnow supplies construction materials on flexible credit terms while paying suppliers upfront, addressing a critical pain point in the industry—cash flow management. This model not only supports small and medium enterprises but also fosters a more resilient and financially stable construction sector.
The conference also saw significant investments in logistics and e-commerce, areas that are intrinsically linked to construction. PIESHIP, a logistics startup, secured $2.1 million in a seed round to expand its warehouse management solutions and last-mile delivery services. Efficient logistics are essential for timely and cost-effective construction projects, making PIESHIP’s growth a boon for the industry.
Moreover, the acquisition of Pubbles by Mush Social and Salla’s acquisition of Sweply highlight the growing importance of digital communities and integrated advertising solutions in the construction ecosystem. These acquisitions are not just about expanding user bases; they are about creating holistic digital environments where construction professionals can connect, collaborate, and innovate.
The funding rounds and acquisitions announced at LEAP 2025 are more than just financial transactions; they represent a paradigm shift in the construction industry. The convergence of contech, fintech, and logistics is paving the way for smarter, more efficient, and sustainable construction practices. As Saudi Arabia continues to invest in and nurture its startup ecosystem, it is not only bolstering its regional influence but also setting a global benchmark for innovation in construction.
For industry professionals, these developments signal a future where technology and sustainability are inextricably linked. The challenge now is to scale these innovations, ensuring that they benefit not just the Kingdom but the global construction sector. The roadmap is clear: by embracing digital transformation and sustainable practices, the construction industry can build a better, greener future.
