Page 25 - MAJRA PR REPORT - AUGUST 2024

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.

https://www.wam.ae/en/article/b4swmlz-ma%E2%80%99an-announces-its-latest-social-
incubator-cohort