Access Programme

The Hub71 Access Programme is designed to support technology startups, ranging from the pre-seed to Series A stages, that are looking to establish and expand their operations in Abu Dhabi. Hub71, a global technology ecosystem backed by the Abu Dhabi government, actively promotes innovation and helps founders enter the dynamic marketplace of the UAE capital. It strategically connects startups with a network of capital providers, corporate partners, and experienced mentors, all aimed at accelerating growth and strengthening the regional tech sector.

Selected startups are eligible to receive ₹56.25 Lakhs (equivalent to AED 250,000) in flexible in-kind incentives. These incentives can be customized and utilized with various approved service providers within the Hub71 network. Additionally, an initial ₹56.25 Lakhs (equivalent to AED 250,000) in cash is provided in exchange for equity, typically through a SAFE note, offering crucial capital for early-stage development and operations. High-performing startups that demonstrate a strong commitment to building and expanding in Abu Dhabi may qualify for an additional top-up of ₹56.25 Lakhs (equivalent to AED 250,000) in exchange for further equity by the end of the one-year program. This structured support can bring the total potential monetary and in-kind incentives to a significant ₹1.68 Crore (equivalent to AED 750,000), providing substantial resources for growth.

The comprehensive in-kind incentives cover a wide array of essential support services, ensuring startups have the necessary resources to flourish. These benefits include premium office space within Hub71's advanced facilities, vital health insurance, housing assistance, dedicated workforce support, streamlined licensing and visa assistance to facilitate relocation, marketing and branding support, critical legal and financial advisory services, and efficient back-office support. The program also offers specialized upskilling opportunities and targeted growth marketing support to help startups effectively acquire and retain customers. The cash component, provided for equity, offers flexibility to support general operational expenses, product development, and overall growth strategies within the startup.

Beyond financial incentives, the program offers an intensive 12-month incubation experience. This includes a focused 3-month guided track powered by Techstars, recognized for its accelerator methodology, providing unparalleled access to their global network of mentors for tailored strategic advice and operational guidance. Startups gain invaluable introductions to key partners within Hub71's extensive network, fostering potential collaboration opportunities with leading corporations, government entities, and investors. The program culminates in a fundraising showcase with venture capitalists and a public Demo Day, maximizing visibility and investment prospects for participating startups.

• Designed for pre-seed to Series A tech startups aiming for global growth from Abu Dhabi.
• Offers up to ₹1.68 Crore (equivalent to AED 750,000) in combined cash and in-kind incentives.
• Includes a 12-month incubation experience with a 3-month Techstars-powered guided track.
• Requires at least one founder to relocate and build a core team in Abu Dhabi.
• Provides extensive access to a global network of mentors, investors, and corporate partners.
• Features a fundraising showcase with VCs and a public Demo Day.

The Hub71 Access Programme is specifically designed for pre-seed to Series A startups. This means it targets companies from their initial development phase up to those that have achieved significant traction and are seeking to raise their first institutional rounds of funding.

Applicants should be established startups with a demonstrable product or service. They should be seeking substantial investment opportunities and aiming to strategically establish a strong presence in Abu Dhabi to scale their business within the MENA region and globally.

A crucial requirement for participation is that at least one founder must commit to long-term relocation and building a core team out of Abu Dhabi. This ensures active engagement with the Hub71 ecosystem, full utilization of local resources, and contribution to the regional tech talent pool.

To apply, startups must submit a comprehensive pitch deck in PDF format. This deck should clearly outline:

• The problem they are solving
• Their proposed solution and unique value proposition
• A sustainable business model
• The competitive landscape and target market
• Existing traction or milestones achieved
• Funds raised to date
• Profiles of the founders and founding team
• Detailed plans for leveraging Hub71 and the Abu Dhabi ecosystem for their growth

Applications for Access Programme are open and the current deadline is 2 Aug 2026. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.

Selected startups in the Hub71 Access Programme receive a substantial package of support designed to accelerate their growth in Abu Dhabi.

Key benefits include:

• Cash Investment: An initial ₹56.25 Lakhs (equivalent to AED 250,000) in cash is provided in exchange for equity, typically through a SAFE note.
• In-kind Incentives: An additional ₹56.25 Lakhs (equivalent to AED 250,000) in flexible in-kind incentives, which can be customized and utilized for various services within the Hub71 network.
• Performance-based Top-up: High-performing startups demonstrating strong commitment to building in Abu Dhabi are eligible for an additional ₹56.25 Lakhs (equivalent to AED 250,000) in cash for further equity, bringing the total potential package to ₹1.68 Crore (equivalent to AED 750,000).

The comprehensive in-kind benefits cover essential operational and growth needs, including:

• Premium office space
• Essential health insurance
• Housing assistance
• Dedicated workforce support
• Streamlined licensing and visa assistance
• Marketing and branding support
• Legal and financial advisory services
• Efficient back-office support
• Upskilling opportunities
• Growth marketing assistance

Beyond direct financial and in-kind support, the program offers strategic connections to capital providers, corporate partners, and experienced mentors, all geared towards accelerating the startup's growth and market entry.

Access Programme is offered by Hub71, a government body. As a government-backed equity, it is publicly funded and open to eligible startups across India. You can verify current details and timelines on the provider's official website before applying.

Before you apply to Access Programme, keep the following documents ready:

• A pitch deck or short business plan describing the problem, product and traction
• Company registration documents and PAN
• Founder identification (PAN / Aadhaar) and brief profiles
• Recent financial statements or projections
• Product details — a demo, prototype or working link if available

Exact requirements are confirmed on the official application portal — treat this as a preparation checklist.

Access Programme is best suited for product and revenue-stage startups in India seeking an equity investment of ₹2.5L – ₹5L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.