Abu Dhabi’s Startup Ecosystem Boosted with Hub71’s Angel Investor Support Package

Abu Dhabi’s Hub71, a leading global tech ecosystem, has launched its Angel Investor Support Package, a strategic initiative aimed at boosting the growth of angel networks and facilitating the formation of legal investment structures within the city’s dynamic startup ecosystem. This new support package provides a financial incentive of Dh150,000 to angel investors, covering a range of benefits designed to encourage investment in early-stage startups based in Hub71. The initiative was unveiled during the Abu Dhabi Finance Week, held from December 9-12, 2024, under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council.

Angel investors are critical to the success and growth of early-stage startups, providing the necessary funding and guidance to help them scale. Recognizing their essential role, Hub71 has created a comprehensive framework to simplify the investment process and support the establishment of angel networks and investment companies in Abu Dhabi. This initiative is part of a broader effort to enhance Abu Dhabi’s status as a global hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.

The Angel Investor Support Package offers several key benefits to angel investors. The Dh150,000 financial incentive is intended to cover the setup and legal costs involved in making investments into Hub71 startups, removing barriers to entry for potential investors. Additionally, the support package includes access to fully digital infrastructure for voting on startup projects and deploying capital. This system allows angel investors to manage their portfolios efficiently and track investments with ease.

Mohammed Al Binali, Value Creation Lead at Hub71, emphasized the pivotal role angel investors play in bridging the funding gap for startups. He highlighted that by supporting the development of angel networks, facilitating larger ticket investments, and encouraging investment in early-stage startups, Hub71 is actively working to unlock the full potential of Abu Dhabi’s tech ecosystem. Al Binali’s vision is to cultivate a robust investment environment that enhances Abu Dhabi’s position as a leading global hub for technological innovation and entrepreneurial growth.

The support package also includes additional resources such as office space for two years, reduced licensing and setup fees for establishing ADGM Special Purpose Vehicles (SPVs/ICC), and access to centralized back-office support services, including legal, audit, and operational advice. Angel investors participating in the program can either join existing networks or create their own tailored networks, gaining access to Abu Dhabi’s vibrant tech ecosystem. Furthermore, they will benefit from strategic support such as investment guidance, financial planning, growth strategies, and operational advice.

Since the introduction of the Angel Investor Support Package, several angel networks have already begun operating within the framework. Among them is Falcon Valley, an exclusive group of experienced angel investors focused on early-stage disruptive ventures. UAE Angels Capital Investment specializes in high-growth seed and early-stage startups, while Qora71, led by a Techstars Entrepreneur in Residence, focuses on mentoring Hub71 startups and preparing them for fundraising. The Emirates Angels Investors Association, founded in 2020, has over 50 members and has already made investments in notable startups like Takalam and Mindtales.

Through the Angel Investor Support Package, Hub71 is fostering a dynamic and supportive investment community that plays a key role in accelerating the growth of innovative startups. The program serves as a catalyst for economic development and technological progress by connecting visionary entrepreneurs with strategic investors, ultimately strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a global innovation hub. This initiative demonstrates Hub71’s ongoing commitment to supporting the growth of the startup ecosystem and attracting global investors to the region.