Propeller, a venture capital firm specializing in AI infrastructure with operations across the Middle East, North Africa, and the United States, has announced the launch of Kernel Camp, an annual training program in AI infrastructure and deep tech. The program is designed to accelerate the growth of early-stage technical founders in the region. The inaugural edition will take place in San Francisco, Silicon Valley, during April and May 2026, bringing together a select cohort of entrepreneurs from MENA at the global epicenter of AI and infrastructure innovation.
A Global Platform for MENA Founders
Kernel Camp offers founders from the Middle East and North Africa a unique platform to refine their ideas, test products, and expand their professional networks within Silicon Valley. Participants will collaborate with engineers, investors, and operators who are shaping the future of the deep tech sector. The program specifically targets technically skilled founders working full-time on startups with tangible products and early indicators of readiness and growth.
Comprehensive Program Structure
The immersive program provides fully funded accommodation, carefully curated workshops, and weekly sessions with leading figures in the tech industry. Participants will receive one-on-one mentorship from experts in company building and gain exposure to leading technology companies through field visits. The program concludes with a Demo Day at Propeller’s network in Silicon Valley, giving founders an opportunity to showcase their progress to a global audience of investors and partners.
Leadership Perspective
Zaid Al Farkh, Founder and Managing Partner at Propeller, said:
“Kernel Camp reflects our deep belief in the exceptional technical talent emerging from our region. The program gives founders the opportunity to accelerate product development and positions them in an environment that blends deep technical thinking, engineering excellence, global reach, and the creation of ambitious companies using cutting-edge technologies.”
Hani Azzam, Partner at Propeller, highlighted the importance of ecosystems and networks in building deep tech ventures:
“Founders do not build alone. Kernel Camp connects the strongest founders in the region with networks, operators, and infrastructure experts shaping the future of Silicon Valley. Our goal is to help founders refine their vision, strengthen their products, and prepare their companies for global-scale growth.”
Strategic Context and Fund III
Kernel Camp follows Propeller’s recent launch of its Fund III, a $50 million investment vehicle dedicated to startups focused on AI infrastructure, developer tools, and deep software across the United States and MENA. The program serves as a cornerstone of Propeller’s strategy to create an integrated partnership linking talent, capital, and expertise across ecosystems.
Leveraging Silicon Valley Networks
Propeller brings a wide network in Silicon Valley to support Kernel Camp, including portfolio companies, investors, strategic partners, service providers, and participating limited partners. This connectivity provides MENA founders with access to the world’s most advanced AI infrastructure, mentorship, and investment opportunities.
Advancing MENA’s Role in Global AI
Through Kernel Camp, Propeller aims to enhance the role of the Middle East and North Africa in developing the next generation of global AI and deep tech companies. The program reflects Propeller’s conviction that emerging technical talent in the region, supported by robust cross-border networks, can build companies with significant global impact and innovation.
Kernel Camp represents a strategic initiative to bridge regional talent with global AI infrastructure, equipping MENA founders to scale their ventures and influence the worldwide deep tech ecosystem.
