20-05-2025
Emirates Accelerator Launched to Boost UAE Startups
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Emirates Development Bank (EDB), the UAE's financial engine for economic diversification and industrial transformation, has announced the launch of the Make it in the Emirates Accelerator.
The initiative aims to fast-track high-impact industrial startups and scale-ups. It was launched in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT).
The Emirates Accelerator was revealed during Make it in the Emirates 2025. The event took place at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre, in the presence of His Excellency Dr. Sultan bin Ahmed Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology and Chairman of EDB.
The accelerator is the UAE's first platform of its kind. It supports industrial entrepreneurship by offering founders strategic tools, technical expertise, market access, and mentorship.
It is part of EDB's mission to drive economic transformation under the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology.
The initiative targets priority sectors such as: Food security, healthcare, and renewables
Advanced technology and manufacturing
According to the bank, it will offer patient capital, tailored financial solutions, and access to a strong business ecosystem. This will help businesses deliver world-class products made in the UAE.
His Excellency Omar Al Suwaidi, Undersecretary of MoIAT, reported that the program strengthens the UAE's industrial sector by offering key enablers and incentives. He said it aims to empower a group of entrepreneurs through support, financing, and innovation.
He added that this would help UAE-made products compete globally and inspire future industrial leaders.
His Excellency Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi, CEO of EDB, noted that the accelerator is designed for ambitious entrepreneurs with scalable ideas. He stated that this initiative offers the tools, networks, and confidence to grow impactful global projects.
Since 2021, EDB has provided over AED 18.7 billion in financing and created more than 32,000 jobs. The new accelerator marks the next step in building a future-ready industrial economy.
At Make it in the Emirates 2025, EDB showcased the first cohort of startups under the accelerator. These include: Pure Soil, focused on organic food production
Yala Kombucha, a local probiotic beverage brand
Sulmi, the UAE's first electric motorbike company
Dein, a luxury leather goods startup
In future phases, the Emirates Accelerator will onboard more entrepreneurs and businesses. This aligns with the goals of the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology.
The initiative also supports Operation 300bn and reinforces the UAE's position as a global hub for industrial excellence.
It works alongside MoIAT's Make it in the Emirates campaign and other EDB programs like the Manufacturing Accelerator and AgriX scheme.
Together, these efforts aim to build scalable businesses, support local supply chains, and enhance the UAE's industrial self-sufficiency.
