From idea to impact: Hub71’s Launchpad for Early-Stage Founders

Initiate is a venture builder-operated programme by Hub71, designed to help early-stage founders transform ideas into scalable startups.

Delivered through partnerships with selected venture builders, Initiate provides tailored tools, resources and mentorship to develop high-potential ventures from Abu Dhabi.

Initiate helps early-stage founders turn breakthrough ideas into viable businesses. With the guidance of venture builders, the programme provides expert support and resources needed to build a Minimum Viable Product (MVP) and unlock access to Hub71’s Access programme.

As a startup selected by one of our venture builder partners, you’ll gain access to:

• Tailored support from your venture builder
• Proximity to ADGM and its supportive regulatory framework
• Entry into Hub71’s ecosystem, of over 150 corporate, government and investment partners, plus a vetted network of service providers
• Free licence and office space at Hub71 for one year
• Soft-landing support from Hub71 to help you set up and integrate into Abu Dhabi’s tech landscape
• Access to venture builder partner programmes, mentorship and tools
• Access to the Hub71 community, including sector-focused events, founder circles, and the opportunity to host activations at Hub71
• A clear pathway to scale, with potential progression into Hub71’s Access Programme and continued long-term support based on eligibility

Initiate is designed for early-stage startups at the ideation or pre-seed stage.

Yes, you can apply to any of Hub71’s venture builder partners, depending on sector focus and alignment of your startup.

Founders should be building in sectors that align with Hub71’s priorities. Hub71 reviews applications first for programme fit. If approved, partner venture builders use their own selection criteria to assess fit and proceed with interviews.

Yes. Initiate focuses on priority sectors aligned with Abu Dhabi's economic vision and the Hub71+ specialist ecosystem framework. These include:

• FinTech and Digital Assets
• ClimateTech
• FinTech
• Life Sciences
• EdTech
• Mobility and Logistics
• FoodTech
  
  

Startups applying AI as a core enabler across these or other sectors are also encouraged to apply.

Hub71 does not provide direct funding through Initiate. However, each venture builder sets its own funding terms. Some may provide direct funding, while others support fundraising efforts. Funding opportunities can be discussed directly with your selected venture builder partner.

Yes, you will receive office space at Hub71, allocated by your venture builder partner.

Hub71 does not take equity in startups joining Initiate.

Equity agreements vary by venture builder. Most typically take an equity share in the startups they support. Terms are defined with your selected venture builder.

Startups receive Hub71 support for up to 1 year, including licensing, office space, and ecosystem access. After that, your venture builder continues supporting you directly.

If your startup hits key milestones, you can apply for the Hub71 Access Program for the next stage of growth.