The Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an Announces Its Latest Social Incubator Cohort: Entrepreneurship for Social Impact 

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, solve Abu Dhabi's social challenges, and empower startups to develop solutions or services. This fosters collaboration, innovation, and investment across Abu Dhabi’s communities. Applications for this cohort are open until September 10, 2024.

Startups can apply for the programme if their business addresses priorities such as 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.

This cohort is open to all nationalities and ages to encourage a diverse range of founders and innovators who will receive comprehensive support to elevate their social enterprises.

The Ma’an Social Incubator will support 30 promising startups in the upcoming cohorts, providing resources for networking and mentorship. This creates a dynamic environment of collaboration and critical thinking for businesses to thrive.

"To support the latest Social Incubator cohorts, Majra – the National CSR Fund – has certified the program with the 'Verified Sustainable Impact Project Stamp,' highlighting its alignment with the UAE’s national priorities and the UN Sustainable Development Goals."

Salma Gharama, Social Entrepreneurship Division Director at Ma’an, said: “Ma’an Social Incubator is designed to support the next generation of entrepreneurs and amplify solutions addressing social priorities. Through this programme, Ma’an seeks to empower entrepreneurs and social startups with the tools and resources to implement their ideas.”

Dana Kamali, Chief Business Officer at the National CSR Fund – MAJRA, said: “We are pleased to support the latest edition of the Social Incubator Program, aligned with MAJRA’s vision of supporting projects that address national priorities and the UN SDGs. This program empowers and accelerates social enterprises contributing to sustainable development in the UAE.”

Ramesh Jagannathan, Managing Director at startAD, added: “Fifty percent of the world’s population lives in urban settings, expected to grow to 67% by 2050. Abu Dhabi demonstrates the vision, resources, and commitment to nurture impactful innovation worldwide to build truly smart and sustainable cities.”

Startups play a vital role in the UAE, with SMEs contributing 63.5 percent of the economy's non-oil GDP in 2022. StartAD is committed to fostering growth and encouraging solutions that improve quality of life. This collaboration aims to support and empower emerging companies making significant contributions to Abu Dhabi.

The teams selected will benefit from tailored opportunities, including funding based on milestones, workshops, mentorship, access to private and government partners, connections with investors, workspaces, tech discounts, masterclasses, endorsements for the UAE golden visa, post-programme support, and more.

The Authority of Social Contribution - Ma’an has supported projects in education, health, environment, and social sectors. Through collaborations with the Third Sector, government, and private entities, Ma’an aims to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a key destination to live and work.

For more information about this cohort of the Ma’an Social Incubator programme, visit: https://maan.gov.ae/en/accelerate-your-impact/incubation/