Khalifa Fund partners with Keeta to boost Emirati F&B startups and digital growth
Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Keeta to empower Emirati entrepreneurs in the food and beverage (F&B) sector and accelerate their integration into the digital economy.
The partnership aims to support homegrown startups and SMEs by expanding their presence across modern digital sales channels, while enhancing their ability to scale and compete in a rapidly evolving market.
Strengthening SMEs through digital platforms
Under the agreement, both entities will work together to provide a comprehensive support ecosystem for Emirati businesses, enabling them to:
- Expand customer reach through digital platforms
- Improve operational and commercial readiness
- Access flexible business frameworks
- Drive long-term financial sustainability
The initiative also focuses on enhancing brand visibility and helping businesses showcase their national identity, strengthening consumer trust.
Focus on innovation and growth
The MoU was signed by Khalifa Saeed Al Kuwaiti and Lucas Xie, in the presence of Mouza Obaid Al Nasri.
Officials highlighted that the collaboration reflects a shared commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and equipping businesses with advanced digital tools to succeed.
Al Kuwaiti emphasised that digital transformation is now essential for sustainable growth, adding that the initiative will help ensure innovative ideas reach the market and evolve into competitive ventures.
Supporting Al Ain and wider UAE ecosystem
A key aspect of the initiative is its focus on Al Ain, identified as a growing hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.
The programme will support local enterprises by:
- Building capabilities and skills
- Connecting them with regional and international opportunities
- Enabling access to broader markets
Driving a resilient business ecosystem
Keeta, backed by global technology leader Meituan, will contribute its digital and operational expertise to help SMEs scale efficiently.
Lucas Xie noted that the company’s role extends beyond delivery services to empowering entrepreneurs and fostering sustainable business growth.
Long-term vision for Emirati entrepreneurship
The collaboration represents a forward-looking approach to strengthening the UAE’s entrepreneurial landscape by combining KFED’s SME development expertise with Keeta’s technology-driven solutions.
Together, the partners aim to build a resilient and sustainable business ecosystem, supporting Emirati-owned enterprises as they grow, innovate, and contribute to the nation’s diversified economy.
