Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem, Hub71, has signed its first US-based partnership with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), creating a strategic bridge for high-growth startups to scale between the UAE and the United States. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed during the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum (ADIF) in New York, aims to provide reciprocal access between the two ecosystems and facilitate international growth for founders.
A Transatlantic Bridge for Innovation
The collaboration is designed to provide tangible soft-landing support for startups entering either market. Through joint programming, curated market visits, and facilitated introductions to investors, regulators, and corporate partners, founders from both ecosystems will gain access to new customer bases, capital opportunities, and tailored expertise. This framework aims to significantly lower the barriers to entry and accelerate the commercial success of startups with global ambitions.
Strengthening US-UAE Strategic Ties
This partnership reinforces the deepening strategic cooperation between the United States and the UAE, particularly in high-impact sectors such as AI and clean energy. The agreement follows a visit to Hub71 by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy in April, underscoring the UAE’s role as a key gateway for US companies expanding into the MENA region.
Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, stated, “Technology continues to transcend borders, and innovation ecosystems must strengthen their ties to support the global ambitions of founders. Our collaboration with Choose New Jersey is focused on unlocking soft-landing opportunities for startups looking to expand internationally, while deepening the exchange of knowledge, talent, and innovation.”
Tim Sullivan, CEO of NJEDA, added, “Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey is cultivating important international partnerships around the globe, leading to greater investments into new industries and a more diverse economy. The NJEDA has built a robust toolkit to support innovative startups, and we’re excited to work with Hub71 to promote the exciting opportunities in Abu Dhabi and the Garden State.”
Expanding a Global Network
The agreement with NJEDA marks another significant milestone in Hub71’s cross-border expansion strategy. It complements a growing portfolio of international partnerships, including a recent alliance with the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), which are designed to build a globally connected ecosystem that enables the exchange of innovation across key markets and scales ventures globally from Abu Dhabi.
About Hub71
Hub71 is Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem that enables founders to build globally enduring homegrown tech companies in any sector by providing access to global markets, a capital ecosystem, a global network of partners, and a vibrant community filled with highly skilled talent governed by forward-thinking regulation. Backed by the Government of Abu Dhabi and Mubadala Investment Company, Hub71 is on a mission to introduce new minds and technologies to Abu Dhabi, supporting the nation’s continuous economic development.
About New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA)
The New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA) serves as the State’s principal agency for driving economic growth. The NJEDA is committed to making New Jersey a national model for inclusive and sustainable economic development by focusing on key strategies to help build strong and dynamic communities, create good jobs for New Jersey residents, and provide pathways to a stronger and fairer economy.
Source: Zawya
