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The Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an has announced its latest Social Incubator programme in partnership with startAD, the startup accelerator powered by Tamkeen and anchored at NYU Abu Dhabi.
Following a successful 9th cohort earlier this year, the theme for this edition will mirror ‘Entrepreneurship for Social Impact’.
The Ma’an Social Incubator is designed to support the development of a vibrant network of social enterprises that drive social innovation, bring best practices to solve Abu Dhabi’s social challenges, and empower start-ups to develop solutions or services. This, in turn, fosters collaboration, innovation, and investment across Abu Dhabi’s communities. Applications for this cohort are open until September 10, 2024.
Start-ups can apply for the programme if their business is aimed at addressing priorities including People of Determination; Senior Citizens Services; Youth Rehabilitation and Support Services; Blue Collar Workers Wellbeing; Domestic Violence Victim Support and Advocacy Services; Individual Reintegration and Rehabilitation, and Economic Empowerment.
The latest cohort is open to all nationalities and ages to encourage a diverse and inclusive range of founders and innovators who will receive comprehensive support packages to elevate their social enterprises.
Designed to provide opportunities for businesses to bring their business ideas to life, the Ma’an Social Incubator will support 30 promising start-ups in the upcoming cohorts and provide them with resources for networking and mentorship. This will create a dynamic work environment built on collaboration and critical thinking in which businesses can thrive.
To support the latest Social Incubator cohorts, Majra – the National CSR Fund – has certified the programme with the ‘Verified Sustainable Impact Project Stamp.’ This recognition highlights the project’s alignment with the UAE’s national priorities and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.
Salma Gharama, Social Entrepreneurship Division Director – Ma’an, said, “Ma’an Social Incubator is designed to support the next generation of entrepreneurs and amplify forward-thinking solutions addressing social priorities. Through this transformative programme, the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an seeks to empower entrepreneurs and social startups with the tools, resources and support to implement their ideas.
“The programme enables entrepreneurs to grow their business while creating a sustainable impact on the social sector economy and contribution to fostering knowledge sharing across the Abu Dhabi community.”
Dana Kamali, Chief Business Officer, at the National CSR Fund – MAJRA, stated, “We are pleased to support the latest edition of the Social Incubator Programme, which is closely aligned with MAJRA’s vision of supporting projects that address national priorities in alignment with the UN SDG’s. This programme aims to empower, recognise and accelerate social enterprises that contribute to advancing sustainable development in the UAE.'”
Ramesh Jagannathan, Managing Director, startAD, added, “Fifty percent of the world’s population lives in urban settings now, and that number is expected to grow to 67% by 2050. Imagine the scale of how that would affect our societies. Abu Dhabi has consistently demonstrated the vision, investment of resources, and commitment to nurture the most cutting-edge and impactful innovation worldwide to build truly smart and sustainable cities that address the social well-being of all residents.
“startAD is proud to work closely with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, to power startups with tangible growth opportunities to enter and grow in the UAE market through pilot projects with leading industry players.”
The teams selected will benefit from a range of tailored opportunities that will help them shape the future of their start-up, including funding based on milestone achievements. Other assets include empowering workshops and training geared to help them understand how to scale their business, expert mentorship and coaching.
They will also have direct access to network with private and government partners, establishing connections with potential local and global investors.
Other benefits include workspaces, tech discounts, masterclasses, endorsements for the UAE golden visa, post-programme support, and more.