Mubadala, Antler, And Hub71 Launch National Founders Programme To Transform University Research Into Startups

Mubadala Investment Company, in collaboration with Antler and Hub71, has introduced the National Founders Programme. This six-week initiative aims to transform innovative university research into startups that meet industry demands. The programme highlights Mubadala's dedication to enhancing the UAE's innovation landscape following its investment in Antler.

Antler will oversee the initial stages of the programme, concentrating on ideation, venture validation, and founder development. Meanwhile, Hub71 will host the programme, acting as a platform that links academic research with Abu Dhabi's tech and investment ecosystem. Participants will gain from Hub71’s vast network of mentors, domain experts, and strategic partners.

Hub71 will offer participants founder-focused services like perks, regulatory support, and market entry pathways to speed up early-stage ventures. With experience in supporting startups across 24 sectors, Hub71 will provide tailored workshops and investor connectivity to integrate participants into Abu Dhabi’s innovation scene.

Ali AlMheiri, Executive Director of Diversified Assets at Mubadala’s UAE Investments Platform, stated: "Through this programme, we are transforming high-potential research into scalable ventures with clear commercial applications. It reflects our broader mandate at Mubadala UAE Investments to incubate new and innovative high-growth sectors that strengthen Abu Dhabi’s knowledge economy and create a positive impact on our communities."

The programme is designed to foster economic growth by uniting universities, venture builders, and industries under a national framework. This approach aims to develop talent and create long-term value for the economy.

Focus on Research-Led Innovation

Romain Assuncao from Antler MENAP remarked: "Abu Dhabi is positioned to become a regional hub for research-led innovation. This programme reflects a shared commitment to connect early-stage talent with the companies and infrastructure that can help them thrive." The initiative targets promising research talent from top universities in Abu Dhabi.

Selected participants will have access to a curated curriculum featuring workshops, coaching sessions, and domain expertise. They will also benefit from connections to Antler’s and Mubadala’s global networks.

Empowering Local Talent

Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, commented: "Empowering local talent to transform ideas into scalable tech ventures is essential to growing homegrown startups from Abu Dhabi. Through our partnership, Hub71 will provide participants with direct access to the tools, expertise, and networks needed to build and scale their ventures. This programme reflects our commitment to strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading destination for entrepreneurship and innovation."

The programme stands out due to its emphasis on corporate collaboration. It creates opportunities for startups to partner with established companies for piloting projects, co-development efforts, infrastructure access, and strategic support.

This initiative not only supports emerging entrepreneurs but also strengthens Abu Dhabi's reputation as a hub for innovation by connecting academia with industry leaders.

With inputs from WAM