Access Programme

• Startups seeking entry into the Hub71 Abu Dhabi ecosystem for global growth.

About this scheme

Hub71 Access Programme supports pre-seed to Series A tech startups looking to establish and scale their businesses in Abu Dhabi. Hub71 is a global tech ecosystem, established by the Abu Dhabi government, that actively fosters innovation and enables founders to expand into the dynamic UAE capital's marketplace. It strategically connects startups with a community of capital providers, corporate partners, and experienced mentors, aiming to accelerate growth and strengthen the tech landscape in the region.

Selected startups receive AED 250,000 in flexible in-kind incentives, which can be uniquely customized and utilized with various approved service providers within the Hub71 network. Additionally, they receive AED 250,000 in cash in exchange for equity via a SAFE note, providing essential capital for early-stage development and operations. High-performing startups, demonstrating strong commitment to building and expanding in Abu Dhabi, are eligible for an additional top-up of AED 250,000 in exchange for further equity by the end of the one-year program. This structured approach brings the potential total monetary and in-kind incentives to a significant AED 750,000, designed to provide substantial runway for growth.

The comprehensive in-kind incentives cover a wide range of critical support services, ensuring startups have the resources they need to thrive. These include premium office space within Hub71's state-of-the-art facilities, essential health insurance, housing assistance, dedicated workforce support, streamlined licensing and visa assistance to facilitate relocation, marketing and branding support, critical legal and financial advisory services, and efficient back-office support. The program also offers specialized upskilling opportunities and targeted growth marketing support to help startups acquire and retain customers effectively. The cash component, provided for equity, is flexible and intended to support general operational expenses, product development, and overall growth strategies within the startup.

Beyond financial incentives, the program offers an intensive 12-month incubation experience. This includes a focused 3-month guided track powered by Techstars, renowned for its accelerator methodology, providing unparalleled access to their global network of mentors for tailored strategic advice and operational guidance. Startups gain invaluable introductions to key partners within Hub71's extensive network, fostering potential collaboration opportunities with leading corporations, government entities, and investors. The program culminates in a fundraising showcase with venture capitalists and a public Demo Day, maximizing visibility and investment prospects for participating startups.

Who can apply

• The program is specifically designed for pre-seed to Series A startups, meaning it targets companies from their initial development phase up to those that have achieved significant traction and are seeking to raise their first institutional rounds of funding.
• Applicants should be established startups that have a demonstrable product or service, are seeking substantial investment opportunities, and are looking to strategically gain a strong foothold in Abu Dhabi to scale their business within the MENA region and beyond.
• A crucial requirement for participation is that at least one founder must commit to long-term relocation and building a core team out of Abu Dhabi.
• This ensures active engagement with the Hub71 ecosystem, full utilization of local resources, and contribution to the regional tech talent pool.
• To apply, startups must submit a comprehensive pitch deck in PDF format.
• This deck should clearly highlight the problem they are solving, their proposed solution, unique value proposition, sustainable business model, competitive landscape, target market, existing traction or milestones achieved, funds raised to date, profiles of the founders and founding team, and detailed plans for leveraging Hub71 and the Abu Dhabi ecosystem for their growth.

Benefits & funding

• Selected startups receive AED 250,000 in cash in exchange for equity via a SAFE note, alongside AED 250,000 in flexible in-kind incentives.
• High-performing startups demonstrating strong commitment are eligible for an additional AED 250,000 for further equity, bringing the total potential package to AED 750,000.
• In-kind benefits include premium office space, essential health insurance, and housing assistance.
• Additionally, the program provides strategic connections to capital providers, corporate partners, and experienced mentors to accelerate growth.

Documents checklist 1

• Pitch Deck

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Frequently asked questions