Dubai: The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism (DET) and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy have collaborated with global innovation leader Plug and Play to introduce a cutting-edge three-month accelerator programme.
According to Emirates News Agency, the programme, which is now open for applications, is tailored for post-revenue startups poised for expansion. This strategic initiative integrates promising startups into Dubai's corporate innovation ecosystem, facilitating connections with leading corporate entities and fostering regional growth.
The inaugural cohort will concentrate on Trade and Logistics, Connectivity and Digital Solutions, and Fintech - sectors central to Dubai's economic diversification and digital transformation goals. This aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda, D33, which aims to double the city's economy by 2033. The accelerator unites prominent post-revenue startups and leading corporates such as DHL, du, and Visa, fostering strategic partnerships to drive innovation and commercial success.
Entrepreneurs will benefit from direct access to corporate innovation leaders, mentorship, investor exposure, training, and market entry opportunities. The programme promises dedicated support for startups to integrate and scale within Dubai's corporate innovation environment, ensuring a seamless experience for founders. Participating corporates will gain early access to emerging technologies and opportunities to co-create solutions with high-potential startups, playing a role in shaping Dubai's future-ready economy.
The accelerator, powered by Plug and Play's renowned methodology, offers engagement with global innovation leaders, strategic partnerships, expert mentorship, and investor network access. Hadi Badri, CEO of the Dubai Economic Development Corporation, emphasized the programme's significance in connecting entrepreneurs with corporates, mentors, and investors. Saeed Al Gergawi, Vice President of the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, highlighted the accelerator's role in linking global talent with leading corporates, strengthening Dubai's position as a bridge between ideas and markets.
Saeed Amidi, Founder and CEO of Plug and Play, expressed pride in the partnership, aiming to create a world-class programme that provides commercial access, mentorship, and investment opportunities for startups while offering corporates access to cutting-edge solutions. The programme leverages Plug and Play's proven approach, emphasizing hands-on mentorship, rapid piloting, and market validation, giving participants an edge in scaling their solutions and accessing new markets.
As a key component of the D33 Agenda, the accelerator aims to help create 30 unicorns and transition 400 SMEs into large businesses by 2033, reinforcing Dubai's stature as a global innovation leader. Applications for the accelerator are now open, inviting ambitious startups worldwide to join and become part of Dubai's dynamic innovation ecosystem.