In 2025, Agility Global launched two initiatives in partnership with startAD, both aimed at fostering the next generation of Emirati entrepreneurs. These initiatives will empower young innovators and business leaders by equipping them with the tools, mentorship, and skills needed to build scalable ventures. A particular emphasis is support for Emirati women in entrepreneurship.
The first initiative, the University Student Entrepreneurship Program, supports up to 20 students from NYUAD and the wider UAE. The students are upskilled and receive guidance on various aspects of the venture creation process. They learn about identifying market gaps, formulating business models, and creating minimum viable products. Agility Global’s contribution is instrumental in providing structured training and upskilling, ensuring students gain practical insights into entrepreneurship and innovation.
In parallel from February to August 2025, Agility Global is supporting the Impact Hub for Emirati Women Achievers, a pioneering program dedicated to empowering visionary Emirati women in business and innovation.
Studies highlight a notable increase in women entrepreneurs in the UAE over the last decade, driven by government and private-sector initiatives. A recent study by Mastercard found that 84% of women in the UAE are considering starting their own business and indicated that a greater proportion of women (49%) than men (48%) identifies as entrepreneurs, reflecting the country’s rapidly evolving business landscape.
Despite significant strides in female entrepreneurship in the UAE, challenges remain. A recent report by Visa found that access to funding remains a critical challenge for UAE women entrepreneurs, with 57% of women-owned businesses in the UAE relying on personal finances. This makes programs like the Impact Hub essential for equipping women with the skills and networks needed to succeed.
Through this program, Emirati women innovators benefit from expert coaching, skills training, focused on transformational leadership and catalyzing innovation ecosystems. The initiative facilitates participation in digital and in-person forums, creating opportunities for professional growth and collaboration.
