Abu Dhabi’s E1H Pioneers Innovation in Sports and Entertainment
Abu Dhabi is taking bold steps to become a global leader in sports and entertainment entrepreneurship with the launch of E1H, an innovation hub developed by Ethara and OneToWatch. Designed to support startups from ideation to commercialization, E1H provides access to mentorship, investment opportunities, and industry expertise. The hub focuses on emerging sectors such as esports, fan engagement, sustainability, and digital experiences, offering a unique ecosystem where entrepreneurs can develop and scale their businesses.
A Vision for Transforming the Industry
The vision behind E1H is to drive growth and innovation in the sports and entertainment industry. Jamie Cunningham, Executive Director at OneToWatch, explains that E1H was created to support entrepreneurs and startups, providing them with the tools and connections needed to thrive in a competitive landscape. By linking them with industry leaders, corporate partners, and investors, E1H ensures that promising ideas can evolve into commercially viable businesses.
Strategically located at Yas Marina Circuit, the hub is situated within one of the UAE’s most dynamic entertainment districts. This location offers unparalleled access to world-class venues, events, and industry professionals, helping startups integrate into the broader sports and entertainment ecosystem. By bridging the gap between innovation and commercialization, E1H is set to become a game-changer in the region.
From Concept to Commercial Success
Startups joining E1H will benefit from a structured six-week Incubator program, which provides:
- Dedicated mentorship from experienced professionals in the sports and entertainment sectors.
- Workshops covering essential business topics such as capital raising, business modeling, and strategic partnerships.
- Access to a collaborative workspace designed to foster creativity and innovation.
- Opportunities to test products and services with government and corporate partners.
- A final pitch event, where startups present their business to potential investors.
Beyond the incubator, E1H will soon introduce the Xcelerator program, aimed at helping startups scale their operations and achieve long-term business growth. This initiative will focus on strategic planning, market expansion, and investment readiness, ensuring that startups have a clear roadmap for success.
A Strong Support System for Entrepreneurs
E1H provides more than just a workspace—it offers a comprehensive support system tailored to the needs of emerging businesses. Each startup is paired with a mentor who has deep industry experience, ensuring they receive personalized guidance and feedback throughout their journey.
Weekly workshops will cover key topics such as fundraising strategies, market positioning, and operational efficiency, equipping startups with the knowledge needed to navigate the competitive landscape. Moreover, E1H fosters collaboration between entrepreneurs, corporate partners, and government entities, creating a dynamic network that drives innovation.
At the conclusion of the six-week Incubator program, startups will have the opportunity to pitch their ideas to local and international investors, increasing their chances of securing funding.
Selection Criteria and Future Impact
E1H is open to startups across various sectors within sports and entertainment, with a particular focus on innovation-driven businesses. Key areas of interest include:
- Esports and gaming – Developing platforms that enhance competitive gaming experiences.
- Health and wellness technology – Creating solutions that promote athlete performance and well-being.
- Sustainability in sports and events – Introducing eco-friendly practices to reduce environmental impact.
- Digital fan engagement – Building interactive experiences that connect fans with teams and events.
- Content creation and experiential marketing – Transforming storytelling and brand engagement.
Startups that align with Ethara’s portfolio of events and venues will have a strong advantage in the selection process. However, the main priority is identifying entrepreneurs with fresh ideas and scalable business models capable of shaping the future of the industry.
Defining Success for E1H
The ultimate goal of E1H is to help startups transition from early-stage concepts to thriving businesses that can make a real impact in the sports and entertainment industry. Success will be measured by the number of startups that secure investment, establish strategic partnerships, and achieve commercial viability.
By fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, E1H aims to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a global hub for sports and entertainment technology. The initiative is not only focused on local growth but also on creating a lasting economic and technological impact worldwide.
Through structured programs, strong mentorship, and access to critical resources, E1H is shaping the future of sports and entertainment, ensuring the UAE remains at the forefront of industry innovation.
