Hub71+ Digital Assets presents a specialized program designed to foster the growth of Web3 startups from Abu Dhabi. This initiative serves as an integrated launchpad, bringing together builders, regulators, investors, foundations, and corporate partners to support ventures in the blockchain and cryptocurrency sectors. The ecosystem is structured to provide value to startups at various stages of their development journey.
Program Overview
• Program Focus: A specialist ecosystem for startups in Web3 or leveraging blockchain technology, aiming to unlock their disruptive potential.
• Support Package: Offers a comprehensive support system and a direct route into the UAE capital’s marketplace.
• Key Benefits: Includes in-kind and cash incentives, access to a network of regional and global government, market, and investment partners.
• Guided Track: Features a 3-month guided program powered by Elixir Capital, providing access to mentors for tailored advice and accelerated growth.
• Environment: Leverages Abu Dhabi’s progressive regulatory framework and world-class digital assets infrastructure.
Financial Incentives
• Initial Funding: Onboarded startups receive AED 250,000 worth of in-kind incentives for support services and AED 250,000 in cash in exchange for equity through a SAFE note.
• Performance-Based Funding: High-performing startups committed to Abu Dhabi may be eligible for a top-up of up to AED 250,000 in exchange for additional equity upon program completion or after one year.
Application Timeline and Selection Process
• Current Cohort: Applications are being accepted for Cohort 20.
• Application Deadline: The current deadline is August 2, 2026.
• Program Start Date: The program is scheduled to begin in February 2027.
• Application Review Period: Applications submitted before the deadline will be reviewed between June and November 2026.
• Feedback Timeline: Applicants can expect to receive feedback on their application status within three months of submission.
• Continuous Applications: Applications submitted after the deadline will be considered for the subsequent cohort.
• Round 1: Application Review.
• Round 2: Meetings between shortlisted founders and the Hub71 team.
• Round 3: Meetings between shortlisted founders and Hub71 partners, who participate in the evaluation.
• Round 4: Final selection committee review.
Application Requirements
• Application Form: All required fields in the application form must be completed.
• Pitch Deck: A PDF format pitch deck is required, highlighting sections on the problem, solution, value proposition, business model, competition, market, traction, funds raised, and the founding team.
• Abu Dhabi Plan: The pitch deck must include plans for leveraging Hub71 and establishing a presence in Abu Dhabi.
• Founder Commitment: At least one founder is expected to commit to a long-term relocation and building a team in Abu Dhabi.
Program Structure
• Duration: A 12-month program providing a comprehensive support package for direct entry into Abu Dhabi’s marketplace.
• Programme Launch (4 weeks): Startups establish KPIs and identify key growth areas to build a strong foundation.
• Market Entry Preparation (4 weeks): Focuses on navigating the UAE's corporate environment and investor landscape to prepare for MENA region entry.
• Corporate Partner Introductions: Hub71 facilitates introductions to key partners within its network to explore collaboration opportunities.
• Growth Acceleration (4 weeks): Concentrates on key areas such as fundraising, market expansion, and team scaling.
• Fundraising Showcase: An event where startups meet with VCs, culminating in a public Demo Day.
• Ongoing Support: Continuous support is provided throughout the program via access to vetted service providers, utilizing incentives for growth.
Core Benefits
• Access: Entry into a specialized ecosystem with regional and global Web3 players.
• Capital: Opportunities to connect with VCs, fund managers, and investors active in the Web3 space.
• Regulations: A favorable regulatory environment for operations through the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM).
• Partnerships: Connections with corporate partners and a global network of strategic partners, including blockchains and exchanges.
Hub71+ Digital Assets Community
Startups can join the Hub71+ Digital Assets community to gain access to ecosystem players from investment, regulatory, and Web3-based partners through a dedicated Telegram community and events. A brief application is required to join.
• Thriving Ecosystem: Become part of Abu Dhabi's Web3 ecosystem alongside local and global players.
• Curated Community: Join an emerging community to grow with and help shape.
• Partner Programmes: Receive early information about partner program launches and special initiatives.
• Networking Events: Access networking opportunities with professionals through series like gmAD and other events.
Ecosystem Partner Landscape
• Anchor Partner: First Abu Dhabi Bank
• Regulations Partner: Abu Dhabi Global Market
• Web3 Partners: Algorand, Founders Dao, Future Arc, Solana
• Programme Partner: Circle
• Investment Partner: Binance Labs
• Infrastructure Partner: Amazon Web Services
• Capital Partner: #Hashed
For Web3 and blockchain technology startups seeking to scale, the Hub71+ Digital Assets program offers a structured pathway into the MENA region, backed by a robust network of partners and a comprehensive suite of resources designed to accelerate growth and market entry.