Emirates Development Bank (EDB), in collaboration with the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology (MoIAT), has introduced the ‘Make it in the Emirates Accelerator’ at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. This initiative aims to expedite the growth of industrial startups and scale-ups within the UAE.
The accelerator is designed to provide participating companies with strategic tools, technical expertise, market access, and mentorship. It targets food security, healthcare, renewable energy, advanced technology, and manufacturing sectors. The program aligns with the National Strategy for Industry and Advanced Technology objectives and the broader Operation 300bn initiative, which seeks to increase the industrial sector’s contribution to the UAE’s GDP to Dh300 billion by 2031.
Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi, CEO of EDB, stated that since the bank’s strategic realignment in 2021, it has provided over Dh18.7 billion in financing, creating more than 32,000 jobs. The new accelerator continues EDB’s efforts to support the UAE’s industrial development and economic diversification.
The accelerator’s first cohort includes companies such as Pure Soil, Yala Kombucha, Sulmi, and Dein, each operating in sectors ranging from organic food production to sustainable mobility and luxury goods manufacturing.
The ‘Make it in the Emirates Accelerator’ complements EDB’s existing programs, including the Manufacturing Accelerator and AgriX scheme, all aimed at nurturing scalable businesses and enhancing the UAE’s industrial self-sufficiency.
The accelerator was unveiled during the ‘Make it in the Emirates 2025’ forum, held from May 19 to 22 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre. The event serves as a platform for showcasing the UAE’s manufacturing capabilities and fostering partnerships to drive industrial growth.
