Accelerating innovation in the UAE
We offer unparalleled growth opportunities for the entrepreneurial ecosystem through an extensive range of programs. Choose below to learn more.
In line with the Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030, startAD ignites homegrown innovation by conceptualizing and implementing impact-driven programs.
startAD supports Abu Dhabi and the UAE’s goals of becoming a knowledge-based economy by equipping startups, SMEs and young talent with the necessary tools to build innovative new products that serve a global need, collaborate across organizations, and develop entrepreneurial capacity.
startAD | A Tale of Acceleration
Featured Programs
Would you like to get involved in one of our current programs as a participant, mentor, investor, or subject matter expert? We have quite a few opportunities for you.
AWE UAE is organized by the U.S. Mission to the UAE, in partnership with startAD. It is a three-month program that equips female entrepreneurs from across the UAE to stabilize, pivot, and upscale their business for the fast-paced growth of the UAE knowledge-based economy.
A 4-week, equity-free accelerator that provides global tech startups tangible growth opportunities, mentoring, and access to strong networks for entering the UAE market through commercial partnerships with Aldar and other market leaders in the region.
Manassah is Aldar’s startup program run in partnership with startAD, which advances exceptional entrepreneurs in the retail domain to succeed and become part of the thriving ALDAR retail portfolio.
Ma’an and startAD have entered a 3-year partnership to develop Abu Dhabi as the Global Center of Social Innovation. MSI is a dynamic and emerging hub for social impact projects in Abu Dhabi that encourages innovative solutions that address the full spectrum of social, cultural, and environmental challenges.
Partners
startAD partners with corporations and government departments to ensure that the goals of every stage of their innovation and digital transformation journey are met.
Testimonials
“Joining forces with startAD is a fantastic way for us to build a community of entrepreneurs and harness their talent to energize our communities. So far, this association has given us the pleasure to work with talented people driving innovative concepts. Specifically, we are more dynamic, innovative, and agile– three of our core values at Aldar.”
Maan Al Awlaqi
Executive Director - Strategy, Aldar Properties
“At ALEC, we are differentiated by our culture that nurtures innovation. Our work with startAD furthers this commitment in leading innovation. We have already launched six partnerships with startAD alumni startups around implementing different digital transformation initiatives.”
Imad Itani
Innovation Manager, ALEC Engineering and Contracting
“By partnering with startAD, Oracle Construction and Engineering continues to drive digital transformation, experiencing firsthand how new technologies drive better project outcomes in critical areas of safety, productivity and quality. We are navigating challenges, and unlocking new opportunities within the Engineering & Construction Industry.”
Sherief Elabd
Director - Industry Strategy & Innovation, Oracle Construction and Engineering
“startAD are passionate and serious about their mission. They do not take shortcuts, are committed to success, and deliver. startAD was able to adapt quickly to changes and needs, embrace collaboration, and have a proactive attitude to achieve the desired goals. Entities, private, public or semi-public, could easily benefit by working with startAD to foster entrepreneurial talent for a more vibrant economy.”
Mouza Al Nasri
Acting CEO, Khalifa Fund
“The startAD programs provide tangible resources and the environment for innovation to flourish. Their professional, committed, and experienced staff come with local expertise with international knowledge, enabling results being delivered consistently at a remarkably high quality.”
Samah Al Hajeri
Director of Cooperatives & Strategic Reserve, Ministry of Economy
“We partnered with NYU’s startAD program as we share their vision in advancing local industries through introducing global technology. startAD equips corporations with the tools for successful innovation through startup partnerships. startAD truly unlocks the country’s economic potential through new business development and job creation.”
Walid El Hindi
ex-CEO, Imkan
Latest News & Events
As we celebrate 5 years of startAD today, we look back at the vision we started with and the life that it has taken with pride.
- December 22, 2021
- 1 Min Read
The rights of women in the workplace have come a long way – but in a post-pandemic world there is still much work to do
- March 8, 2022
- 5 Min Read
The US Mission to the UAE, along with startAD, the Abu Dhabi-based global accelerator powered by Tamkeen and anchored at NYU Abu Dhabi, hosted a closing ceremony at Expo 2020 Dubai.
- March 9, 2022
- 2 Min Read
The sixth cycle of the Ma’an Social Incubator programme is intended for social entrepreneurs in the financial literacy and EdTech sectors.
- March 22, 2022
- 3 Min Read
2 Min Read
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