Expand North Star Celebrates A Decade Of Global Startup Growth And Innovation

The 10th anniversary of Expand North Star, part of GITEX GLOBAL, has drawn over 2,000 startups and 1,200 investors from 180 countries. This event remains the largest global gathering for startups and investors. Brazil is the official Country Partner this year, with Ecuador and Chile participating for the first time.

Running from 12th to 15th October, the event aims to boost investment opportunities and strengthen partnerships for sustainable digital growth. Global venture capital investments are expected to reach US$368 billion in 2024, highlighting the event's role in advancing AI-driven markets.

Ecuador debuted with 20 startups and 22 companies showcasing AI and medical tech solutions. Ecuador’s Ambassador to the UAE, Felipe Ribadeneira, noted this marks a new chapter in UAE–Ecuador ties. Plans include signing a memorandum at the World Government Summit for a technology logistics corridor.

Chile also participated for the first time with 12 companies from various sectors. They hosted the Chile-Dubai Innovation Summit to boost cooperation in technology and export diversification. These initiatives reflect growing international collaboration at the event.

Investors managing US$1.1 trillion in assets attended, underscoring its economic significance. Dr. Jorg Goschin of KFW Capital highlighted Dubai’s tech ecosystem as a "natural partner" for investing in European innovation. This reflects Dubai's growing influence in global tech investments.

On the opening day, Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC), organiser of GITEX GLOBAL and Expand North Star, signed partnerships with Presight, 28 Digital, ApexBrasil, and Serbia's Chamber of Commerce and Industry. These agreements aim to enhance innovation and cross-border collaboration.

Driving Innovation and Growth

Tatiana Riera from ApexBrasil emphasised UAE’s role in linking global innovation ecosystems. Brazil aims to "co-create the future" through partnerships in Dubai, home to over 20,000 startups. This highlights Brazil’s commitment to fostering international collaborations for innovation.

The event supports Dubai’s goal of creating 30,000 new jobs by 2030 and producing at least 10 unicorns by 2031. This solidifies its position as a global hub for entrepreneurship, innovation, and investment.

Through these efforts, Expand North Star continues to play a crucial role in scaling the digital economy worldwide while driving growth across emerging markets driven by artificial intelligence.

With inputs from WAM