Page 33 - MAJRA PR REPORT - AUGUST 2024

8/23/24, 3:30 PM The Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an announces its latest social incubator cohort: Entrepreneurship For Social Impact

Ramesh Jagannathan, Managing Director, startAD said: “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.”

Startups play a vital role in the UAE, with Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs) contributing up to 63.5
percent of the economy's non-oil GDP in 2022. StartAD is committed to innovation that goes beyond
laying a strong foundation for growth; it also encourages those with experience and interest in
addressing pressing societal priorities, and finding solutions that improve the quality of life in impactful
ways. Our collaboration with the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an aims to support and empower

emerging companies that make significant contributions to making the Emirate of Abu Dhabi richer and
more vibrant.

This joint initiative solidifies our commitment to further strengthen collaborations between companies
and attracting more entrepreneurs to join us in building paths towards a more sustainable and innovative

society.

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.

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, the
Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an helps amplify a culture of social participation, while aiming to

strengthen Abu Dhabi’s position as a key destination in which 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/

https://www.zawya.com/en/press-release/government-news/the-authority-of-social-contribution-maan-announces-its-latest-social-incubator-cohort-entr…

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