Dubai, UAE – In a significant move to bolster the UAE’s startup ecosystem, iAccel Gulf Business Incubator (iAccel GBI) has forged a partnership with the National Incubator Network (NIN), established by Sandooq Al Watan. The Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) was formalized at the NIN Employment Open Day in Abu Dhabi, underlining a joint commitment to empowering young Emirati entrepreneurs and propelling national economic diversification.
Graced by His Excellency Sheikh Nahyan bin Mubarak Al Nahyan, Minister of Tolerance and Coexistence, and Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Al Watan Fund, the event underscored the pivotal role of fostering innovation and entrepreneurship among the youth. Sheikh Nahyan stressed the significance of enabling young individuals to spearhead businesses and assume leadership roles across various sectors.
CEO and Co-Founder of iAccel Gulf Business Incubator, Deepak Ahuja, expressed his enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting its alignment with the UAE government’s vision to foster innovation and entrepreneurship. Ahuja emphasized that this collaboration would be instrumental in shaping the startup landscape in the UAE, offering comprehensive support for startups looking to expand into the region.
The Employment Open Day witnessed the signing of collaboration agreements between the NIN and incubators across the UAE, marking the inception of a national network of business incubators. Attended by dignitaries, Emirati businessmen, investors, and over 500 job seekers, the event showcased the achievements of the fund and successful experiences of the UAE’s youth.
Under the strategic agreement, iAccel GBI, among other partners, pledges to promote economic development in the UAE, focusing on enhancing business practices, fostering competitiveness, developing small and medium enterprises, attracting investments, and promoting research, development, and innovation. The collaboration aims to strengthen national identity, empower Emiratis in the private sector, and invest in community projects for societal and economic benefit.
Founded in 2023 under the Hamdan Incubation Program, iAccel GBI has supported over 11 tech startups with funding, mentorship, and resources. This partnership positions iAccel GBI to collaborate with key stakeholders to boost the UAE’s entrepreneurial ecosystem and solidify its position as a global expansion hub.