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Dubai initiates prime accelerator program to bolster startups in prioritized industries

Dubai collaborates with Plug and Play to boost creativity and expansion

Dubai Introduces Premier Accelerator Program to Promote Growth in Strategic Industries among...
Dubai Introduces Premier Accelerator Program to Promote Growth in Strategic Industries among Startups

Dubai initiates prime accelerator program to bolster startups in prioritized industries

In a significant move to bolster innovation and entrepreneurship, Dubai has partnered with Plug and Play, an internationally renowned innovation platform and investment firm, to launch a three-month accelerator program for post-revenue startups.

The initiative, which reflects Dubai's commitment to fostering innovation, offers access to corporate innovation teams, tailored mentorship, investor networks, and market entry support to help scale operations in Dubai. The program aims to embed high-potential businesses into Dubai's growing corporate innovation ecosystem, offering them direct links to major organisations like DHL, du, and Visa.

For corporates, the accelerator provides early exposure to emerging technologies, the chance to co-create solutions with innovative founders, and the opportunity to shape Dubai's future-ready economy. Saeed Amidi, Founder and CEO of Plug and Play, highlights the dual benefits of the program: startups gain access to mentorship, investment, and commercial partnerships, while corporates benefit from cutting-edge solutions that address their strategic priorities.

The first cohort of the accelerator will focus on three sectors: Trade and Logistics, Connectivity and Digital Solutions, and Fintech. The program is designed to drive lasting impact, as noted by Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy.

The D33 Agenda, Dubai's strategic plan, aims to help create 30 unicorns and transform 400 SMEs into large businesses by 2033. This accelerator program is a significant step towards achieving this goal, as it is designed to strengthen Dubai's position as a hub for business, investment, and global talent by combining Plug and Play's hands-on mentorship model with Dubai's corporate landscape.

The program connects entrepreneurs directly with corporates, mentors, and investors within a collaborative platform. Key benefits for startups include direct engagement with global leaders, expert guidance from international mentors, investor access, fundraising support, and capital-raising education.

Hadi Badri, CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation, expressed his enthusiasm for the initiative, stating that it reflects Dubai's commitment to fostering innovation. The program is part of Dubai's wider strategy to become a global centre for innovation and entrepreneurship, as outlined in the D33 Agenda.

In conclusion, the three-month accelerator program launched by Plug and Play in partnership with Dubai's Department of Economy and Tourism and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy is a significant step forward in Dubai's mission to become a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship. The program fosters partnerships that accelerate both innovation and commercial success, providing a unique opportunity for startups and corporates alike.

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