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The Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence’s (MBZUAI) Incubation and Entrepreneurship Center (MIEC) marks its first anniversary, solidifying its role as a key driver in transforming Abu Dhabi into a global hub for artificial intelligence (AI) innovation. The UAE’s ranking as 5th globally in the Stanford Global AI Power Rankings 2024 underscores this progress, as the nation builds a Silicon Valley-like ecosystem in its capital.

MIEC, the region’s first AI-native incubator, has quickly become a critical pillar of Abu Dhabi’s AI ecosystem by fostering deep tech investment expertise and attracting top AI talent. Over the past year, the center has supported nine startups in its portfolio, achieving significant milestones. These startups have secured external funding exceeding internal grants by eight times, showcasing the center’s effectiveness in blending technical expertise with business acumen to scale AI ventures.

Transforming AI Ideas into Startups

Eric Xing, President and University Professor at MBZUAI, highlighted the university’s pivotal role in fostering AI entrepreneurship: “MBZUAI has emerged as a powerful catalyst for transforming AI ideas into ambitious startups that will contribute to the high-tech innovation landscape in the UAE. With world-renowned faculty and strong industry ties, we are uniquely positioned to champion a culture of entrepreneurship.”

As part of its expansion, MIEC has launched the AI-focused Mentors Network, connecting international AI veterans and investors with startup founders. Esteemed mentors include:

• Professor Steve Liu, Associate VP of Research at MBZUAI and Co-founder of Proactive AI Lab

• Dr. Hao Li, Founder and CEO of Pinscreen

• Abdulaziz Shikh Al Sagha, General Partner at BECO Capital

• Franklin Urteaga, Former White House Tech Adviser and Co-Founder of Oigetit.ai

• Yousef Barkawie, Partner and AI & Data Analytics Lead for the Middle East at Deloitte

Empowering Entrepreneurs with Resources and Expertise

MIEC’s initiatives include the IEC Grant program and Entrepreneurship Workshops, which provide funding and practitioner-oriented learning. These workshops have attracted 200 applications, with 100 participants graduating and 17 startups presenting pitches. Over 80 hours of mentorship from experts, including representatives from OpenAI, Microsoft, and AWS, have enriched the learning experience.

“These workshops bridge the gap between academic knowledge and real-world business experience,” said Sultan Al Hajji, Vice President for Public Affairs and Alumni Relations at MBZUAI. “By integrating entrepreneurial training into academics, MIEC ensures students graduate with both technical expertise and business acumen.”

To further support its ecosystem, MIEC introduced the bi-weekly Insights Minute newsletter, delivering curated AI developments, and the Palmside AI Chat series, which connects local stakeholders with global AI leaders. These initiatives have engaged over 300 participants to date, strengthening Abu Dhabi’s AI community.

Building Strategic Partnerships and Programs

MIEC collaborates with key partners, including Hub71, Microsoft Founders Hub, BECO Capital, and Nvidia, to extend its reach. Its external-facing programs, such as the AI Venturepad Program and the Trailblazers Program, aim to cultivate local AI talent and address regional challenges.

Notably, MIEC partnered with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development (ADDED) to develop an SME AI Chatbot. This project, involving over 1,000 student applicants, is nearing launch with 200 users already on the waitlist.

Driving Abu Dhabi’s AI Future

As Abu Dhabi strengthens its position as a global AI leader, MIEC’s unique approach to combining technical innovation with market insights is pivotal. By nurturing a robust AI ecosystem, the center is shaping the future of AI ventures in the UAE and beyond.

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