Page 19 - MAJRA PR REPORT - AUGUST 2024

8/26/24, 3:18 PM Ma’an announces its latest social incubator cohort themed ‘Entrepreneurship for Social Impact’ – UAE Business and Travel Insights…

Start-ups can apply for the programme if their business is aimed at addressing priorities including 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.

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

Designed to provide opportunities for businesses to bring their business ideas to life, the Ma’an Social Incubator
will support 30 promising start-ups in the upcoming cohorts and provide them with resources for networking and
mentorship. This will create a dynamic work environment built on collaboration and critical thinking in which
businesses can thrive.

To support the latest Social Incubator cohorts, Majra – the National CSR Fund – has certified the programme
with the ‘Verified Sustainable Impact Project Stamp.’ This recognition highlights the project’s alignment with
the UAE’s national priorities and the UN Sustainable Development Goals.

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

“The programme enables entrepreneurs to grow their business while creating a sustainable impact on the social
sector economy and contribution to fostering knowledge sharing across the Abu Dhabi community.”

Dana Kamali, Chief Business Officer, at the National CSR Fund – MAJRA, stated, “We are pleased to support
the latest edition of the Social Incubator Programme, which is closely aligned with MAJRA’s vision of
supporting projects that address national priorities in alignment with the UN SDG’s.
This programme aims to empower, recognise and accelerate social enterprises that contribute to advancing
sustainable development in the UAE.'”

Ramesh Jagannathan, Managing Director, startAD, added, “Fifty percent of the world’s population lives in urban
settings now, and that number is expected to grow to 67% by 2050. Imagine the scale of how that would affect
our societies. Abu Dhabi has consistently demonstrated the vision, investment of resources, and commitment to
nurture the most cutting-edge and impactful innovation worldwide to build truly smart and sustainable cities that
address the social well-being of all residents.

“startAD is proud to work closely with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, to power startups with
tangible growth opportunities to enter and grow in the UAE market through pilot projects with leading industry
players.”

The teams selected will benefit from a range of tailored opportunities that will help them shape the future of their
start-up, including funding based on milestone achievements. Other assets include empowering workshops and
training geared to help them understand how to scale their business, expert mentorship and coaching.
They will also have direct access to network with private and government partners, establishing connections
with potential local and global investors.

Other benefits include workspaces, tech discounts, masterclasses, endorsements for the UAE golden visa, post-
programme support, and more.
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