Hub71+ AI is a specialist ecosystem designed to support startups at the forefront of artificial intelligence innovation. It aims to empower companies harnessing AI by providing them with the necessary resources, network, and expertise to scale effectively and achieve sustainable growth. The program offers a comprehensive support package and a direct route into the Abu Dhabi market, focusing on fostering collaboration and accelerating AI integration across various sectors. Participants can develop and deploy sophisticated AI solutions, enabling them to achieve operational efficiency and drive industry disruption.
Program Benefits and Resources
• Access: Connect with a network of renowned partners, including global tech giants, research institutions, and regulatory bodies such as AI71, Core42, ATRC, Beco Capital, Amazon Web Services (AWS), Nvidia, Google for Startups, Hewlett Packard, Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence (MBZUAI), and 42 Abu Dhabi.
• Capital: Gain access to VCs, fund managers, and investors actively looking to invest in AI startups.
• Regulations: Benefit from a progressive regulatory framework and gain direct access to regulators.
• Support Packages: Receive funding opportunities, advanced compute power, technical resources, and financing for pilot projects.
• Technical Resources: Access cutting-edge AI tools and platforms, strategic market entry pathways, and opportunities to pilot technologies in real-world settings.
Funding and Incentives
• Initial Support: Startups onboarded to the program will receive AED 250,000 worth of in-kind incentives in the form of support services and flexible incentives that can be utilized with a range of service providers.
• Cash Investment: Participants receive AED 250,000 in cash in exchange for equity through a SAFE note.
• Follow-on Funding: High-performing startups committed to Abu Dhabi are eligible to receive a top-up of AED 250,000 in exchange for additional equity by the end of the one-year program.
Eligibility and Application Requirements
• Application Form: Startups must fill out all required fields in the application form.
• Founder Commitment: At least one founder is expected to commit to relocating long-term and building a team out of Abu Dhabi.
• Pitch Deck: A pitch deck in PDF format is required, highlighting the following sections: Problem, solution, value proposition, and business model; Competition, market, traction, and funds raised; Founders/Founding team; and Plans for Hub71 and Abu Dhabi.
Application Process and Key Timelines
• Current Cohort: Applications are being accepted for Cohort 20, with a deadline of 2 August 2026. The program is scheduled to start in February 2027.
• Application Review: For Cohort 20, applications will be reviewed between June and November 2026. Applicants can expect feedback on their status within 3 months of applying.
• Rolling Applications: Applications do not close after the deadline; submissions received after the deadline for a specific cohort will be considered for the next one.
• Selection Rounds: The process involves four stages: Round 1: Application review; Round 2: A meeting between shortlisted founders and the Hub71 team; Round 3: A meeting between shortlisted founders and Hub71 partners; Round 4: Final selection committee.
Program Structure
• Program Overview: A 12-month program providing a comprehensive support package for direct entry into Abu Dhabi’s marketplace.
• Program Launch (4 weeks): Startups set KPIs and identify key areas for growth to establish a strong foundation.
• Market Entry Preparation (4 weeks): This phase focuses on preparing startups for the MENA region by guiding them through the UAE's corporate and investor landscape.
• Corporate Partners Introduction: Hub71 facilitates introductions to key partners within its network to explore potential collaboration opportunities.
• Growth Acceleration (4 weeks): This phase concentrates on key areas such as fundraising, market expansion, and scaling teams.
• Fundraising Showcase: The program includes a fundraising event where startups meet with VCs, culminating in a public Demo Day.
• Ongoing Support: Throughout the program, startups receive continuous support through access to vetted service providers, utilizing incentives to enhance their growth.
How to Apply
To apply for the Hub71+ AI ecosystem, interested startups should select their program of interest and answer the following question as part of the application form: “Is your startup utilizing or building AI solutions as part of its core product offering? Which category best describes your focus?”.
This specialist ecosystem provides a structured pathway for AI-driven startups to access capital, advanced technology, and a powerful network in the heart of Abu Dhabi. By offering tailored support and strategic market entry, the program is positioned to help founders scale their solutions and make a sustainable impact within their respective industries.