Khalifa Fund’s ‘Future Entrepreneur programme’ builds entrepreneurial skills among UAE youth

Business

Khalifa Fund’s ‘Future Entrepreneur programme’ builds entrepreneurial skills among UAE youth

The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED) has concluded the first edition of its Future Entrepreneur programme, designed to nurture entrepreneurial skills among young people aged 6 to 18.

The initiative sought to encourage innovation, enhance financial management capabilities, and cultivate a new generation of Emirati entrepreneurs through a mix of practical learning and expert guidance.

The programme drew more than 1,000 applications, with 948 participants receiving training in financial literacy and the basics of entrepreneurship. From this group, 134 promising youth were selected for a three-day bootcamp aimed at developing and refining their business ideas.

During the bootcamp, participants worked on projects across three key pathways. These included 25 projects in the food and beverage sector involving 70 students, 16 projects in goods and merchandise with 33 students, and 13 STEM-focused projects featuring 30 students. In total, 54 projects were showcased at a dedicated marketplace, where participants sold their products and services to more than 350 visitors, simulating real-world entrepreneurial experiences.

A panel of judges evaluated the projects based on creativity and commercial viability, with outstanding participants advancing to the Future Builders Launchpad. This next phase will provide financial and technical support, along with ongoing mentorship, to help youth transform their ideas into sustainable ventures.

Her Excellency Mouza Obaid Al Nasri, CEO of the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, said:
“The Future Entrepreneur programme is a key pillar in supporting Abu Dhabi’s vision to promote entrepreneurship among young people. Our goal is to establish a culture of innovation among youth and equip them to start ventures that support the diversification and sustainability of the national economy. The programme’s results demonstrate the strong enthusiasm of the younger generation to turn their ideas into impactful projects, and also affirm the success of our approach, which combines theoretical knowledge and practical application.”

The programme was hosted at Nabdh Al Falah Community Hub in Al Falah City, where participants could choose pathways under the Inventor or Trader categories. Training emphasized practical experience, with youth running food kiosks and marketing STEM-related products in a simulated market setting.

By fostering cross-sector collaboration, the Future Entrepreneur programme highlights Abu Dhabi’s commitment to equipping its youth with the skills and opportunities necessary for long-term success in entrepreneurship.