Flat6Labs, in partnership with DisruptAD, the venture platform of ADQ, has unveiled the nine innovative start-ups that have been selected to participate in the prestigious Flat6Labs Ignite programme, following a rigorous vetting process of more than 700 start-ups globally.
Launched in March 2021, as a partnership between DisruptAD and Flat6Labs, Flat6Labs Ignite is a specialised seed programme to support up to 60 start-ups in Abu Dhabi over three years. In addition to offering seed funding of up to AED550,000, and subsequent funding of up to AED2 million, the programme gives selected start-ups tailored support, world-class mentorship and considerable access to ADQ’s network and resources.
Of the nine companies that have been accepted into the Cycle 2 cohort, four are home-grown UAE start-ups, whilst the remaining five organisations originate from India, Russia, Singapore, Poland and Egypt. The objective of the accelerator is to attract the best talent from around the world to Abu Dhabi. These international companies will begin relocating significant portions of their operations and leadership teams to the capital.
Flat6Labs will host a Demo Day in Abu Dhabi, following the onboarding of the nine start-ups to the programme. This event will offer investors, entrepreneurship hubs, start-up founders, corporates, government officials and regulatory authorities the opportunity to engage with each of the ventures to further understand how they can collaborate to contribute to the economy of the UAE and wider Middle East.
“DisruptAD is actively investing in high-potential technology start-ups that apply the latest innovation and thinking to maximise value creation and advance Abu Dhabi’s long-term economic potential,” said, Amer Al Ameri, Head of Venture Capital and Technology Investments at ADQ. “Partnering with Flat6Labs on Cycle 2 of the Ignite Accelerator Programme aims to unleash the potential of founders and entrepreneurs who are growing transformative ventures to seize some of the biggest industry opportunities. As part of our commitment to disrupting the norm, the nine companies accepted into the programme will not only be nurtured but will also stand the chance to gain further exposure as part of our Demo Day that is essential for the growth of seed-stage start-ups.”
“We congratulate each of the new start-ups that have joined our programme and look forward to empowering them to expertly navigate the nuanced journey from disruptor to industry leader,” added Ryaan Sharif, General Manager at Flat6Labs. “With the successful conclusion of the selection stage for Cycle 2, we have already commenced the application phase for Cycle 3 and encourage ambitious start-ups from around the world to participate in this next round.”