Access Programme
A programme by Hub71
A 12-month programme for pre-seed to Series A startups that want a base in Abu Dhabi: in-kind support services plus cash taken for equity through a SAFE note.
At a glance
| Best for | Pre-seed to Series A startups, in any sector, ready to move at least one founder to Abu Dhabi. |
|---|---|
| Stage | MVP – Growth |
| Duration | 12 months |
| Format | In person |
| Cost | Takes equity |
About Access Programme
The Access Programme is Hub71's main 12-month programme for startups that want a base in Abu Dhabi. It is open for Cohort 21, with a February 2027 deadline and a September 2027 start, and Hub71 says applications do not close: a late applicant goes into the next cohort.
What you get
- In-kind support services over the 12 months, such as office space, housing and health insurance
- Cash from Hub71 in exchange for equity through a SAFE note, described as uncapped with no discount
- A possible further top-up in exchange for additional equity, for high-performing startups
- Introductions to investors, corporates and government partners in Abu Dhabi
Who can apply
- Pre-seed, seed or Series A startups, in any sector
- At least one founder committed to relocating to Abu Dhabi long term and building a team there
- Startups from outside the UAE, including Indian startups
- Solo founders
- No application fee
How selection works: Application form, then pitch presentations to the Hub71 team and partners, then a final selection committee.
How to apply: Submit the online application form on the programme page with a PDF pitch deck covering the problem and solution, business model, market and traction, your team, and your plans for Hub71 and Abu Dhabi.
Where to apply
Other Hub71 programmes
- Hub71+ Digital AssetsA specialist 12-month ecosystem for Web3 and blockchain startups, on the same package as Access, with a three-month guided track powered by Elixir Capital.
- Hub71+ ClimateTechA specialist 12-month ecosystem for climate and sustainability startups, on the same package as Access, with a three-month guided track.
- Hub71+ Life SciencesA specialist ecosystem for biotechnology, MedTech and digital health startups, on the same package as Access, launched in 2025.
- Hub71+ AIA sector-agnostic AI ecosystem inside Hub71's programmes. There is no separate intake: you answer an AI question on another programme's form.
- SAVI mobility trackA track inside the Access Programme for smart and autonomous mobility startups, giving access to Abu Dhabi's Smart & Autonomous Vehicles Industry cluster.
- InitiateA venture-builder-operated programme for ideation and pre-seed founders to build a first product, with a free licence and office space at Hub71 for one year.
- Hub71 Sandbox ProgrammeA regulatory sandbox developed with the Abu Dhabi Department of Economic Development, where companies test solutions with regulators and testbeds in Abu Dhabi.
- UAE-India Start-Up Series 2.0 and Immersion ProgrammeA cross-border competition for Indian startups run by the UAE-India CEPA Council with Hub71's support. Its application window has closed.