Abu Dhabi’s Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED) has announced a series of strategic partnerships with major public and private sector players, aiming to integrate local small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) into the supply chains of national champions. The agreements were signed during the ‘Make it in the Emirates 2026’ event.
Quick Facts
- Four major partnership agreements signed.
- Partners include Etihad Airways and Rotana Hotels.
- Focus on SME procurement and supply chain access.
Bridging Startups with Corporate Giants
The new agreements are designed to create direct commercial pathways for startups. Under the deal with Etihad Airways, the UAE’s national carrier will join the ‘Abu Dhabi SME Champions Programme,’ a KFED initiative that connects local enterprises with procurement opportunities at major organizations.
A similar agreement was signed with Rotana Hotel Management Corporation. This partnership aims to increase SME access to procurement and contracting opportunities within the hospitality group’s extensive operations, encouraging the use of local suppliers.
Fostering Talent at the University Level
KFED also solidified its ties with the academic sector by signing MoUs with the Higher Colleges of Technology (HCT) and the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU). Both collaborations will establish frameworks to support entrepreneurs through mentorship, capacity building, and knowledge exchange.
These partnerships will give founders, particularly those with student-led ventures, access to specialized university facilities, laboratories, shared workspaces, and formal incubation and business acceleration programmes. The agreements also include plans for joint events and workshops.
About Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development
The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED) is an Abu Dhabi government entity established to support and develop the local SME sector. Its strategy focuses on creating an integrated model for entrepreneurs that combines access to funding with knowledge-sharing, mentorship, and connection to viable market opportunities to help them scale locally and internationally.
Source: Zawya
