Abu Dhabi has unveiled the National Founders Program, a six-week initiative backed by Mubadala Investment Company, Antler, and Hub71, to turn university research into market-ready startups.
The program aims to support researchers and innovators by offering a structured curriculum, coaching, and access to Mubadala’s and Antler’s global networks. Participants will also benefit from Hub71’s ecosystem, which provides regulatory guidance, founder support, and soft-landing services.
Research to Market
The National Founders Program focuses on helping university talent transform high-potential research into scalable businesses with clear commercial applications. Beyond training, it integrates corporate partners to drive pilot projects, co-development, and access to infrastructure, seen as critical for accelerating growth.
“Mubadala is committed to transforming high-potential research into scalable ventures with clear commercial applications,” said Ali AlMheiri, Executive Director at Mubadala.
Building an Ecosystem
Antler will lead early-stage venture building, while Hub71 acts as the operational base, leveraging its experience across 24 sectors. The National Founders Program is positioned as a model for linking academia and entrepreneurship in the UAE and across the wider MENA region.
