Page 684 - INVESTOPIA ENGLISH PR REPORT FEBRUARY - MARCH 2025 (International)

3/19/25, 2:15 PM Future100 initiative discusses fostering innovation in tech and sustainable ventures and enhancing UAE's entrepreneurial ecosyste…

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
economic activities in 2024, according to the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor

(GEM). The UAE also ranked first globally in the GEM Entrepreneurship Index

for 2023-2024 for the third consecutive year, excelling in key indicators such as
financing, market accessibility, and government support.

H.E. Al Mazrouei underscored that developing national entrepreneurship is a
strategic priority for the UAE. It forms a core pillar of the country's economic

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