TechStars opens in Abu Dhabi’s Hub71 while Dubai accelerator is under review
If you're like us, you might be wondering what happened to the Techstars' Dubai accelerator. With no news of the next batch, nor the listing of Dubai programme for applications on the website, along with recent news of the Techstars' launch in Abu Dhabi, we got curious and looked into what's happening.
After two successful cohorts in Dubai in partnership with GINCO Investments, Techstars programme is currently "under review" and thereby on hold in the emirate while they are in talks with other corporate partners. However, the programme's "launch" is still unconfirmed, leaving us to note that currently the accelerator is unavailable in Dubai at the time of writing this story.
Following is the statement we received from Techstars:
Techstars has come to UAE to stay and is looking at expanding in the region with multiple accelerators. The Techstars Hub71 Accelerator in Abu Dhabi is a new program, whilst the Dubai program, after 2 successful classes with GINCO, is under review and we are actively in conversation with prospective corporate partners with no definitive timeframe for a launch.Techstars
However, the news is good for all who want to join Techstars' accelerator in the UAE—it has now launched at Hub71 in Abu Dhabi and applications for admission to their first cohort are open on their website until 13 October, 2019.
The new 13-week accelerator is a mentorship-driven programme providing hands-on guidance to startups as well as access to Techstars' worldwide network. It is geared to help startups "gain traction and accelerate their businesses for global success."
The Techstars Hub71 Accelerator is said to accept 10 startups on an annual basis and is looking for startups from a variety of business verticals that are developing and using innovative technology to address issues or plug gaps in the market.
We are committed to creating an optimal environment for technology startups right here in Abu Dhabi, where through this program, founders with exceptional ideas and talent will come together. Not only will these startups benefit from hands-on mentorship and exposure to global investors, but they will have the opportunity to join a network of successful and respected Techstars alumni.Ahmad Alwan, Head of Strategy and Corporate Development at Hub71
Techstars is one of the most successful accelerators in the world, having seen hundreds of startups graduate across countries. They have been playing a massive role in the UAE to fuel homegrown tech startups as well as attract international ones to the country. We are excited for their new accelerator in Hub71, that will undoubtedly continue to nurture and spur the growth of the region's tech sphere.
