Applications open for newly launched Abu Dhabi based Techstars Hub71 Accelerator

Techstars, the global network for entrepreneurs, has opened applications for its newly launched Abu Dhabi based Techstars Hub71 Accelerator.

Techstars announced the launch of the accelerator in a statement last week. It said it had partnered on the initiative with the Mubadala Investment Company led tech centre Hub71.

The 13-week accelerator programme will be led by Techstars managing director Vijay Tirathrai (pictured above).

Applications for Techstars Hub71 Accelerator will close on 13 October

The programme, Techstars said, will provide hands-on mentorship and guidance as well as access to its worldwide network. This it added, will help startups gain traction and accelerate their businesses for global success.

Applications close on 13 October and the programme will kick off on 27 January next year. The inaugural cohort is set to conclude with a demo day on 23 April.

The Techstars Hub71 Accelerator is open to open to startups with innovative tech solutions in business verticals that include:

• ICT and semiconductors
• Metals and mining
• Healthcare
• Real estate and infrastructure
• Petroleum and petrochemical
• Renewal energy and utilities.

In addition, the programme will also have a specific focus on solutions in the following sectors: artificial intelligence (AI), analogue and digital interfaces, augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), mixed reality, blockchain, cybersecurity, digital media, Internet of Things (IoT), payment technology and robotics.

Techstars said the accelerator will accept 10 startups every year.

Tirathrai, commenting in an earlier statement, said the accelerator combines the strength of Techstars and Hub71’s network to deliver on an “extraordinary experience” for the founders who will join its programme.

With an aligned goal our mission with @techstars is to guide startups with a hands-on approach empowering founders to reach their full potential. #Hub71AD #inabudhabi #uae #startups #innovation #technology #Hub71xTechstars #community #entrepreneurs #entrepreneurship #techstars pic.twitter.com/norqdIG8xr

— Hub71 (@hub71ad) July 28, 2019

Hub71 head of strategy and corporate development Ahmad Alwan said the tech hub is excited to partner with Techstars.

“Not only will these startups benefit from hands-on mentorship and exposure to global investors, but they will have the opportunity to join a network of successful and respected Techstars alumni,” said Alwan.

The Techstars Hub71 Accelerator comes on the heels of the launch of the $142-million Hub 71 by the Abu Dhabi government in March (see this story).

Read more: Abu Dhabi out to lure tech startups with new $142m tech hub, $145m fund

Featured image: Techstars managing director and Techstars Hub71 Accelerator head Vijay Tirathrai (Twitter)