Startup Support Program in the UAE 2027 Offering Incentives and Investments of Up to AED 750,000
Applicant criteria
- NationalityNo specific nationality required
- AgeNo specific age required
- GenderBoth
Opportunity criteria
- Job locationUnited Arab Emirates
- Deadline2027-02-02
Opportunity description
Hub71 is accepting applications for its Hub71+ Life Sciences startup accelerator in Abu Dhabi, with Cohort 21 beginning in September 2027. The current cohort deadline is February 2027; applications submitted after that date are considered for the next cohort.
About the Hub71+ Life Sciences Startup Accelerator
The programme runs for 12 months from September 2027 and is designed for startups in life sciences. Selected startups receive AED 250,000 worth of flexible incentives that can be used with a range of service providers, as well as AED 250,000 in cash in exchange for equity through a SAFE note.
High-performing startups committed to Abu Dhabi may be eligible for an additional AED 250,000 in exchange for further equity by the end of the one-year programme. This top-up is conditional and is not described as an automatic benefit for every selected startup.
Selection has four rounds. First, the application is reviewed. Next, the Hub71 team meets founders who are shortlisted. Relevant partners from the Hub71 community then meet shortlisted founders and take part in the evaluation process. The final stage is review by the selection committee.
Applicants who submit before the Cohort 21 deadline should receive feedback on their application status within three months of applying. Hub71 says it will review applications submitted before the deadline by April 2027. Applications remain open after the cohort deadline, but later submissions are considered for the following cohort. Explore startup accelerators and other diverse opportunities for youth, or browse more opportunities for young people.
Who Should Apply
This programme is for life sciences startups prepared to present their business and plans to Hub71, its relevant community partners and the final selection committee. Applicants should be able to explain the problem they address, their solution and value proposition, as well as their business model, market, competition, traction and funds raised. At least one founder is expected to commit to relocating to Abu Dhabi long-term and building a team there.
Key Highlights
- For startups in the life sciences field.
- Cohort 21 starts in September 2027 and runs for 12 months.
- Based in Abu Dhabi; at least one founder is expected to relocate long-term.
- Current cohort deadline: February 2027. Later applications are considered for the next cohort.
- Selected startups receive AED 250,000 in flexible incentives and AED 250,000 in cash for equity through a SAFE note.
Benefits
- AED 250,000 worth of flexible incentives, usable with a range of service providers.
- AED 250,000 in cash in exchange for equity through a SAFE note.
- High-performing startups committed to Abu Dhabi may be eligible for an additional AED 250,000 in exchange for additional equity by the end of the one-year programme.
Eligibility criteria
- The applicant must be a startup.
- Complete all required fields in the application form.
- Provide a pitch deck in PDF format covering the main sections: problem, solution, value proposition and business model; competition, market, traction and funds raised; founders or founding team; and plans for Hub71 and Abu Dhabi.
- At least one founder is expected to commit to relocating to Abu Dhabi long-term and building a team there.
Ready to apply?
Startup Support Program in the UAE 2027 Offering Incentives and Investments of Up to AED 750,000