- Propeller launches Kernel Camp, an 8-week San Francisco residency for MENA-based AI and deep-tech founders.
- The program offers fully sponsored housing, workshops, site visits, and mentorship from Silicon Valley experts.
- Kernel Camp aims to strengthen MENA startups’ products, networks, and global scale potential in AI infrastructure.
Propeller
Propeller, a venture capital firm focusing on AI infrastructure, launched Kernel Camp. The program is an eight-week residency for MENA-based early-stage technology founders in San Francisco, Silicon Valley. The inaugural session will take place in April–May 2026.
“This residency gives founders the chance to accelerate their product’s development. It places them in an environment where global deep-tech thinking, engineering excellence, worldwide distribution, and ambitious company-building come together every day to solve challenges with frontier technologies,” said Zaid Farekh, Founder & Managing Partner at Propeller.
Kernel Camp is designed to accelerate early-stage technology companies from the MENA region. Founders will refine ideas, test products, and build networks with engineers, investors, and operators shaping the global AI ecosystem. Ideal participants are technically strong, working full-time on demo-ready products, and showing early signs of traction.
Deep Tech
The program provides fully sponsored housing, curated workshops, weekly guest sessions, and one-on-one office hours with world-class builders. Participants will also take site visits to leading technology companies and venture firms. Kernel Camp will conclude with a demo day for Propeller’s Silicon Valley community.
The launch follows Propeller’s USD 50 million Fund III, which backs AI infrastructure, developer tools, and deep software startups across the U.S. and MENA. Kernel Camp represents a strategic pillar to deepen the bridge between talent, capital, and knowledge in both regions.
Founded in 2017, Propeller is a global venture capital firm investing in Seed to Pre-Series A stage startups. It focuses on startups building horizontal AI infrastructure, AI-native applications, developer tools, and core software systems, from silicon-adjacent technologies to enterprise workflows.
Bottom line: The program aims to position MENA startups for global scale and elevate the region’s role in shaping AI and deep-tech innovation.
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