Announcements

The Start-up Series is open to high-potential Indian start-ups across sectors that demonstrate strong innovation, business viability, and relevance to the UAE market. Applicants must be Indian-registered entities with a clear product or service offering, market traction, and a roadmap for UAE engagement. The program welcomes Start-ups from both metro and non-metro regions, and actively encourages applications from those aligned with UAE priority sectors

The selection will take place in two stages:


• Start-ups will be shortlisted based on written applications.

• Up to 20 start-ups will be chosen after evaluation.

• A winner will be selected following a live pitch event in Bengaluru.

Each stage involves independent evaluation using a structured scoring rubric that rewards merit, strategic fit, and impact.

Each stage involves independent evaluation using a structured scoring rubric that rewards merit, strategic fit, and impact.

30 July 2026 –  Opening of nationwide applications.

30 August 2026 – Applications close.

Early-November 2026 – Announcement of the Short-listed Start-ups

End of November – The Final Pitch Event

March 2027 – UAE Journey Begins

Participating founders will be eligible to receive a defined package of support to help them establish in Abu Dhabi.

Three startups will be shortlisted for Hub71’s Access Programme, with one onboarded to receive up to AED 250,000 in in-kind incentives and AED 250,000 in cash via a SAFE note, alongside tailored mentorship, investor introductions, regulatory support, and access to Hub71’s corporate and government partners.

Up to seven startups will gain eligibility to join Hub71’s Immersion Programme, which pairs a week of virtual preparation on the Abu Dhabi and UAE ecosystem with a week of in-person curated sessions at Hub71 focused on market entry and introductions across its partner network.

Beyond Hub71’s package of benefits, participating founders will be eligible to investor introductions, streamlined pathways to incorporation in the UAE, and other forms of financial and in-kind support provided by the UAE-India Start-Up Series’ network of institutional and corporate partners.

Strong applications clearly demonstrate innovation, traction, execution capability, and alignment with the UAE’s priorities. Start-ups should also present a compelling UAE expansion plan and a well-structured pitch deck. Additional bonus points are awarded to ventures operating in UAE priority sectors.