The AWS/CTIB Cybersecurity Startup Accelerator is a strategic initiative designed to foster innovation within the UAE’s digital defense landscape. Organized by Amazon Web Services (AWS) and the Cyber Tower & Innovation Bureau (CTIB), this equity-free program provides a structured pathway for both international and local cybersecurity startups to scale their operations. By combining world-class cloud infrastructure with local market expertise, the program aims to strengthen the regional cybersecurity ecosystem and provide founders with the resources necessary for rapid growth and market penetration.
Program Benefits
- Financial Support: Participants receive $25,000 in AWS Activate Credits to offset cloud infrastructure costs and support technical scaling.
- Expert Mentorship: Access to a network of industry leaders from organizations such as AWS, CrowdStrike, and e& for guidance on product-market fit and technical architecture.
- GTM Support: Specialized Go-To-Market strategies focused on navigating the UAE and broader Middle Eastern markets.
- Technical Guidance: Hands-on assistance from AWS Solution Architects to optimize cloud deployments and security protocols.
- High-Level Networking: Opportunities to connect with potential corporate partners, government stakeholders, and specialized venture capital investors.
- Visibility: A chance to showcase solutions at GISEC Global 2026, the region's leading cybersecurity event.
- Zero Equity Cost: The program is entirely equity-free, allowing founders to retain full ownership of their companies while benefiting from all program resources.
Eligibility Criteria
- Stage: The program is primarily targeted at early-stage startups (Seed to Series A) that have a minimum viable product (MVP) or a market-ready solution.
- Sector: Solutions must be focused on cybersecurity, including but not limited to network security, cloud security, AI-driven threat detection, and data privacy.
- Geography: Applications are open to startups based in the UAE as well as international startups looking to expand their footprint within the Middle East.
- Technological Alignment: Startups should be currently using or planning to migrate their infrastructure to AWS.
Curriculum and Roadmap
- Intensive Mentorship Phase: Startups engage in deep-dive sessions focusing on technical scalability and regional regulatory compliance.
- Market Readiness Workshops: Sessions dedicated to the UAE business environment, procurement processes, and localized marketing strategies.
- Technical Milestones: Regular check-ins with AWS experts to ensure cloud architecture is robust, secure, and cost-efficient.
- Final Demo Day: A culminating event where participants present their progress and solutions to a curated audience of investors and industry executives.
Key Logistics and Application Details
- Application Deadline: February 3, 2026.
- Program Location: A hybrid model combining virtual sessions with in-person opportunities in the UAE.
- How to Apply: Prospective applicants can find the official submission portal and detailed documentation on the Vestbee platform or the AWS program page.
The AWS/CTIB Cybersecurity Startup Accelerator represents a significant opportunity for security-focused founders to gain a foothold in one of the world’s most rapidly evolving technology hubs. By bridging the gap between innovative startups and institutional support, the program serves as a catalyst for long-term success in the Middle East. Eligible founders are encouraged to review the application requirements and submit their materials before the February deadline to be considered for the 2026 cohort.