Hub71 Strengthens Abu Dhabi’s Thriving Tech Ecosystem with Its Latest Cohort
Hub71, Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem, has welcomed 27 startups as part of Cohort 16 across Hub71’s three programs, Access, Hub71+ ClimateTech and Hub71+ Digital Assets. This new addition increases the total number of ventures supported by Hub71 to 357. The latest cohort includes startups across key priority sectors, reinforcing Hub71’s commitment to diversifying Abu Dhabi’s economy through technology and innovation.
Collectively, Cohort 16 startups have raised over USD 145 million (AED 532 million) in funding, averaging USD 4.9 (AED 18 million) million per startup. This achievement reflects Hub71’s track record in attracting high-potential companies that advance technological innovation across Abu Dhabi’s priority sectors. By joining Hub71, these startups are establishing their operations in Abu Dhabi, gaining access to a robust network of capital, mentorship, and resources to scale their businesses and drive impactful growth.
Cohort 16 was selected from over 1,300 applications, with 63% of chosen startups headquartered in leading technology markets such as the USA, UK and Germany. Among the notable additions to Hub71’s Access program is Vivan Therapeutics, a UK-based precision medicine company pioneering cancer research, using AI and fruit fly models to identify personalized treatments, that has raised USD 10 million (AED 36 million) in funding.
Meanwhile, Theion, a German startup developing sustainable sulfur-based batteries that store up to three times more energy than traditional batteries will join the Hub71+ ClimateTech program. South Korean startup Redbrick, a cloud-based 3D creation engine that uses AI and blockchain, has raised USD 16.3 million (AED 59.8 million) in funding and will join the Hub71+ Digital Assets program.
Furthermore, one in three startups in the cohort is based in the UAE, showcasing the nation’s growing status as a global entrepreneurship hub. Notable homegrown startups include Qashio, an award-winning spend management platform that has raised USD 10 million (AED 36 million), and Switch Foods, a FoodTech company offering locally produced, affordable plant-based meats. Switch Foods has raised USD 12.5 million (AED 45.9 million) and launched Abu Dhabi’s first plant-based meat production facility, setting a new standard for sustainable food innovation.
Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, said: “Cohort 16 reinforces the global confidence in Hub71 as a launchpad for transformative ideas from Abu Dhabi. The selection process is highly competitive, reflecting the exceptional caliber of startups in our ecosystem. These companies are advancing innovation across key tech sectors while strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a global tech hub.”
Additionally, more than half of Cohort 16 consists of Seed and Series A startups. The selected startups operate in nine sectors including FinTech, ClimateTech, HealthTech, EdTech, and Mobility & Logistics, and will play a crucial role in driving the growth of Abu Dhabi’s economy.
By joining Hub71 “Access” and Hub71+ programs, startups will be able to tap into a vibrant community of mentors, partners, and investors within Abu Dhabi’s technology ecosystem. Gaining access to market opportunities, top talent, and capital significantly enhances startups’ prospects of securing commercial deals, attracting investment, and driving market growth.
