Page 38 - INVESTOPIA ENGLISH PR REPORT FEBRUARY - MARCH 2025 (International)

Over two days at Investopia 2025 in Abu Dhabi

Future100 initiative discusses fostering innovation in tech and
sustainable ventures and enhancing UAE’s entrepreneurial
ecosystem

The number of startup applications in the sustainability and environmental
sectors grew by 43% under the Future100 initiative

The Future100 initiative reaffirmed its commitment to accelerating the growth of SMEs in
future economy sectors in the United Arab Emirates (UAE), fostering a comprehensive
investment ecosystem aligned with technological advancements, and enhancing economic
growth opportunities. This commitment aims to drive a transformative shift in the UAE's
economy and solidify the country's position as a global hub for innovation and
entrepreneurship.

It was highlighted during the initiative’s panel sessions held recently, attended by H.E. Alia
bint Abdullah Al Mazrouei, UAE Minister of State for Entrepreneurship; H.E. Ohood bint
Khalfan Al Roumi, UAE Minister of State for Government Development and the Future; along
with a diverse group of entrepreneurs, startups, investment funds, business incubators and
accelerators, and global companies specializing in technology and innovation.

These discussions took place as part of Investopia 2025, held under the patronage of H.H.
Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President and Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE,
and Chairman of the Presidential Court.

The initiative featured 15 sessions with 48 distinguished speakers including ministers, senior
officials, and industry experts. Discussions revolved around key topics such as artificial
intelligence, emerging technologies, tech-driven entrepreneurship, the future of SMEs,
innovative investment strategies, the role of innovation and technology in financial models,
and mechanisms to support SMEs in expanding within the new economy. Additionally, the
sessions highlighted the critical role of female entrepreneurs in generating tangible positive
impacts on society and the national economy.

Speaking at the opening session, H.E. Alia Al Mazrouei emphasized that the Future100
initiative has become a key enabler for the growth of the UAE’s new economy. The initiative
aims to accelerate the growth of high-potential SMEs in key future economy sectors and
support their expansion into regional and global markets.

She highlighted that thanks to the UAE’s visionary leadership, the country has successfully
established a competitive legislative framework that attracts entrepreneurs and startups
worldwide, providing the necessary initiatives and enablers for their success. SMEs currently
account for 94% of all businesses in the UAE, with 25,000 SMEs founded by Emirati youth in
2024 alone. The UAE is home to over 50 government and private business incubators and
accelerators, contributing to its recognition as the best global destination for business and