Fostering Collaboration

Dubai Startup Hub launches revamped Market Access program for startups and SMEs

Seven major corporates have signed up to Dubai Startup Hub’s latest edition of Market Access, which pairs leading companies in the UAE with startups that offer innovative solutions addressing their key challenges. Sanofi, Mediclinic, Sumitomo Corporation, Accenture, Dubai South, Emirates Post Group and Emirates NBD will list a series of challenges on the Market Access online portal, giving startups the chance to submit their solutions online and pitch their business concepts to potential business partners, Dubai Startup Hub, the entrepreneurship arm of Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, said in a statement.

HE Majid Saif Al Ghurair during the Market Access launch event

In its fourth cycle, the Market Access program had received more than 500 applications from corporate and startups in previous rounds. The latest edition has been revamped to offer a one-year membership to corporate participants, specialized workshops and access to a wider network of solutions, as well as the opportunity to list multiple challenges. Meanwhile, startups that make the cut will benefit from training and pitching workshops, access to lucrative business opportunities, as well as a platform to boost their market exposure and build their brand reputation.

Speaking during a launch ceremony, H.E. Majid Saif Al Ghurair, Chairman of Dubai Chamber, stressed the significance of programs like Market Access in providing an effective platform for fostering innovation and forging partnerships between established companies and startups in Dubai. He added that many large local and global companies have realized the benefits of collaborating with startups, with such partnerships are helping organizations successfully navigate the Fourth Industrial Revolution and boost their competitive edge.

Launched in 2017, Market Access is a first-of-its-kind program that aims to enhance cooperation and facilitate deals between innovative startups and SMEs from around the world, and leading companies and government entities in Dubai. Dubai Chamber launched Dubai Startup Hub in 2016 as an online platform to connect startups, entrepreneurs, developers, venture capitalists and students, enabling them to learn about new opportunities and create new partnerships that stimulate economic growth.