Hub71 Welcomes 27 International Startups in Cohort 18

Hub71, the global technology ecosystem based in Abu Dhabi, has announced the selection of 27 promising startups for its Cohort 18 Access Programme after an impressive influx of 2,453 applications spanning 112 countries.

The competitive nature of the selection was underscored by a mere 1.1 percent acceptance rate. Notably, the selected startups have raised approximately AED 844.7 million collectively, averaging AED 31.2 million in funding per startup, highlighting their investment readiness and market potential.

This marks the first time that all chosen startups are based outside the UAE, showcasing Abu Dhabi's emerging reputation as a prime destination for global entrepreneurs eyeing new markets. Currently, these startups are in the process of obtaining necessary licenses and setting up their operations in the city.

Hub71 has indicated that 31 percent of the applications were sourced through its partner and founder networks, illustrating a growing confidence in the ecosystem and the success of community-driven referrals.

The cohort will participate in either Hub71's versatile Access Programme or specialized tracks including Hub71+ Digital Assets, Hub71+ ClimateTech, and Hub71+ Life Sciences. Seven startups are joining Hub71+ Life Sciences, six will enter Hub71+ Digital Assets, and five are set for Hub71+ ClimateTech.

Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, remarked that this latest intake demonstrates the strong interest from worldwide startups in growing their businesses from Abu Dhabi, as these firms are in the process of developing commercially viable technologies with expansive global opportunities.

Notable participants include EchoTwin AI from the U.S., which transforms municipal fleets into responsive sensing networks, having secured AED 29.4 million in funding.

Kenyan startup Duck has also been selected for its retail data platform, which simplifies inventory and sales management, raising AED 1.1 million to date.

Within Hub71+ Life Sciences, the UK-based Amilis has joined after garnering AED 5.9 million to develop AI-based clinical decision support tools for reproductive health.

Sweden’s Wingbits will participate in Hub71+ Digital Assets, boasting AED 34.5 million in funding, offering real-time air traffic data through its global tracking station network.

From the ClimateTech sector, UK startup Persium, which raised AED 6.2 million, will focus on advanced air quality sensors aimed at mitigating pollution.

This cohort features startups from 12 different nations, ranging from Pre-Seed to Series A stages, and highlights the increasing innovation collaboration between the UAE and India, as evidenced by Indian startups Uravu Labs and Endimension Technology joining the programme.

Additionally, three startups from Hong Kong—Pubrio, Craftt, and KPay—have also been admitted into Cohort 18 after their participation in the Hub71 Hong Kong Immersion Programme. KPay significantly has raised AED 238.7 million and is expanding its operations from Abu Dhabi.

Over the course of its 12-month Access Programme, Hub71 will offer selected startups support valued at up to AED 250,000 in both cash and in-kind contributions. Participants will also benefit from mentorship, investor networking, regulatory advice, and connections to corporate and government partners. High-achieving startups may be eligible for further support to enhance their global expansion.

With Cohort 18 now included, Hub71's ecosystem expands to encompass 525 startups, bolstering Abu Dhabi’s status as a rapidly blossoming hub for innovation and technology in the MENA region.