Access Programme
A grant and investment programme by Hub71 offering up to AED 750,000 for pre-seed to Series A tech startups relocating to Abu Dhabi.
- Funding amount
- ₹2.5L – ₹5L (grant)
- Funding type
- Grant
- Provider
- Hub71 (Government)
- Application deadline
- Closes in 13d (2 Aug 2026)
- Eligible stage
- Product · Revenue
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Overview
The Access Programme is Hub71's flagship initiative for early-stage technology startups ready to establish and expand in Abu Dhabi. Hub71 is a government-backed global tech ecosystem that provides capital, corporate partnerships, mentorship, and market access in the UAE and MENA region.
Selected startups receive an initial package of AED 250,000 in flexible in-kind services plus AED 250,000 as a cash investment via a SAFE note in exchange for equity. Top performers demonstrating commitment to growth in Abu Dhabi can receive an additional AED 250,000 in further equity, bringing total value to AED 750,000. In-kind benefits include premium office space, health insurance, housing assistance, workforce support, visa and licensing help, marketing, legal and financial advisory, back-office services, upskilling, and growth marketing strategies. Cash can be used for operations, product development, and scaling.
The programme runs for one year and requires at least one founder to relocate full-time to Abu Dhabi to build the core team there. The application involves a multi-stage evaluation: submitting a detailed pitch deck, pitching to Hub71 staff and investors, and a final committee decision after due diligence.
Highlights
- Total package up to AED 750,000 (≈₹1.57 crore) combining cash and in-kind
- Designed for pre-seed to Series A tech startups
- At least one founder must relocate full-time to Abu Dhabi
- One-year program with mentorship and guided track
- Access to corporate, government, and investment partners
- Multi-stage evaluation: pitch to Hub71, investors, and leadership
Who can apply
This program is designed for pre-seed to Series A technology startups that have a demonstrable product or service and are ready for international institutional investment. Startups should be at product-market-fit stage or generating revenue, and not yet at Series B.
A key requirement is that at least one founder must relocate to Abu Dhabi and build the core team there, committing to a long-term presence in the Hub71 ecosystem. Applicants must submit a detailed PDF pitch deck covering the problem, solution, unique value, business model, competitors, target market, traction, funds raised, team profiles, and how they will leverage Hub71 and Abu Dhabi to grow.
Access Programme is open to startups at the product and revenue stage. It is open to startups registered anywhere in India.
- Eligible stage
- Product · Revenue
- Location
- Open to startups registered in India
Deadline & timing
Applications for Access Programme are open and the current deadline is Closes in 13d (2 Aug 2026). Applications are closing soon, so prepare your documents early. Deadlines can change — always reconfirm on the official source before submitting.
What the funding covers
Selected startups receive package worth between AED 250,000 and AED 750,000 (approximately ₹18.75 Lakh to ₹56.25 Lakh), comprising:
- Initial package: AED 250,000 in cash via a SAFE note (equity) + AED 250,000 in flexible in-kind services.
- Top-up for top performers: Additional AED 250,000 in cash/equity, bringing total to AED 750,000.
- In-kind benefits: Premium office space, health insurance, housing assistance, workforce support, visa & licensing, marketing & branding, legal & financial advisory, back-office services, upskilling, and growth marketing.
- Ecosystem access: Introductions to capital partners, corporate allies, and mentors; opportunity to showcase at Demo Day and connect with Hub71's network.
About the provider
Access Programme is offered by Hub71, a government body. As a government-backed grant, 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.
How to apply
Applications are submitted on the official portal. Confirm the current deadline and document checklist there before you start.
Selection process
The programme follows a four-stage evaluation:
- Apply online – Submit a complete application including a pitch deck explaining the problem, solution, product, and business model.
- Preliminary interview – Shortlisted founders pitch to Hub71 team, selected investors, and corporate/government partners.
- Pitch presentations – Further pitching to investors and key partners.
- Final committee – Full due diligence and confirmation by Hub71 leadership. All stages together take several weeks for full review and final decision-making.
Documents you’ll need
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.
Who this is best for
Access Programme is best suited for product and revenue-stage startups in India seeking non-dilutive funding of ₹2.5L – ₹5L. If that describes your startup, review the eligibility criteria above before applying.
Frequently asked questions
What kind of funding does the Access Programme provide?
The programme provides a package of cash and in-kind incentives up to AED 750,000. The cash component is structured as a SAFE note in exchange for equity, while in-kind services include office space, health insurance, and other support.
What is the application deadline?
The deadline is 2 August 2026. Applications must be submitted via the Hub71 website before that date.
Who can apply?
Pre-seed to Series A technology startups with a demonstrable product or service. At least one founder must be willing to relocate to Abu Dhabi and build the core team there.
Are any specific industries or sectors excluded?
No specific industries are excluded, as long as the startup is technology-enabled and falls within the pre-seed to Series A stage.
Do I need DPIIT or MSME registration to apply?
No, DPIIT or MSME registration is not required as the programme is based in the UAE and does not require these Indian registrations.
Does the programme take equity?
Yes, the cash investment is exchanged for equity via a SAFE note. Top performers may receive additional equity investment. The exact terms are set individually.
What documents do I need to submit?
A detailed PDF pitch deck covering the problem, solution, unique value proposition, business model, competitors, target market, traction, funds raised, team profiles, and plans for leveraging the Hub71 ecosystem.
How long is the programme?
The Access Programme runs for one year, with the possibility of additional support for top performers.
Can I apply from India?
Yes, applications from anywhere in the world are welcome, provided the founder is willing to relocate to Abu Dhabi.
What is the selection process?
The process includes an online application, preliminary interview, pitch presentations, and a final committee decision with due diligence. It typically takes several weeks.
How much funding does Access Programme provide?
Access Programme provides ₹2.5L – ₹5L (range) as grant. Always confirm the exact amount and any conditions on the official site, as figures can change between cohorts.
Who offers Access Programme?
Access Programme is offered by Hub71, a government body. It is provided as non-dilutive funding.
How do I apply for Access Programme?
Apply directly through the official application link on this page. Review the eligibility criteria and prepare your startup documents before you begin.
Alternatives to Access Programme
Not sure Access Programme is the right fit, or already applied? These are other grants open to Indian startups that founders shortlist alongside it.
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