His Highness Sheikh Khaled bin Mohamed bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Crown Prince of Abu Dhabi and Chairman of the Abu Dhabi Executive Council, met with the winners of the second edition of the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development Competition, recognizing their innovative projects aimed at strengthening the UAE’s sustainable and knowledge-based economy.
Quick Facts
- 509 entrepreneurs and startups participated in the competition.
- Eight winners were selected across core economic sectors.
- Special awards focused on AI, sustainability, and robotics.
From 509 Applicants to Eight Winners
The competition attracted 509 applications from entrepreneurs and startups presenting practical solutions for challenges across key economic sectors. Qualified projects, including 28 startups from Abu Dhabi, 21 from Al Ain, and 8 from Al Dhafra, participated in an intensive training camp that provided mentorship and guidance to prepare them for the final stages.
The final phase saw five projects awarded for their innovations in tourism, FinTech, energy, healthcare, and agriculture. Three additional awards were given for outstanding solutions in Artificial Intelligence, sustainability, and robotics.
Fostering a Competitive, Knowledge-Based Economy
The initiative underscores Abu Dhabi’s commitment to building a supportive ecosystem for local talent and innovative startups.
Ahmed Jasim Al Zaabi, Chairman of the Board of Directors of the Khalifa Fund, stated, “The Khalifa Fund for Entrepreneurship Competition reflects our belief that promising ideas are the starting point for national companies capable of creating sustainable economic value. What we are witnessing today in the quality of projects and the spirit of innovation among Emirati youth confirms that building the future economy begins with empowering entrepreneurs and providing them with the knowledge, funding, and partnerships that turn ideas into projects with real impact.”
Mouza Obaid Al Nasri, CEO of the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, added that the competition’s second edition affirms the Fund’s efforts to empower national projects and entrepreneurs. She highlighted the role of strategic partnerships in fostering innovation and growth, which in turn supports Abu Dhabi’s sustainable development goals.
About Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development
The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development is an Abu Dhabi government entity established to support and develop small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the emirate. It aims to foster an entrepreneurial culture among Emiratis and enhance the competitiveness of the national economy by providing financing, mentorship, and a supportive environment for startups and entrepreneurs.
Source: Sharjah24
