UAE-India Start-up Series 2.0
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Quick Answer
The UAE-India Start-up Series 2.0 connects high-potential Indian startups with the UAE and international markets, offering up to ₹56.75 lakh via SAFE note, mentorship, and market entry support.
- Funding amount
- Up to ₹56.8 Lakhs
- Funding type
- Equity
- Provider
- UAE-India CEPA Council
- Application deadline
- Closed
- Location
- International
Results & next round
Applications for this round closed on 30 August 2026. The organiser has not published a selection list that we can verify yet.
Selections for this programme are announced by UAE-India CEPA Council. Official links are listed under Sources below.
We update this page when results are published, and when the next round opens.
About this funding program
The UAE-India Start-up Series 2.0 is a prestigious initiative designed to foster cross-border innovation and entrepreneurship between India and the UAE. Anchored in the broader framework of the UAE–India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA), this program specifically targets high-potential Indian startups, providing them with unparalleled opportunities to expand into the UAE and beyond. It aims to deepen economic ties and collaborative efforts in technology and business development, enabling Indian ventures to access new markets, capital, and a robust support ecosystem.
This series serves as a critical bridge, facilitating market access, investment pathways, and strategic partnerships for Indian startups looking to scale globally. By leveraging the dynamic startup ecosystems of both nations, the program helps participants navigate international business landscapes, understand regulatory frameworks, and connect with key stakeholders in the MENA region. The initiative is a testament to the commitment of both governments to support emerging technologies and entrepreneurial talent, fostering a new generation of global businesses.
Eligibility
See if you're eligible
Full eligibility criteria — entity type, stage, sector, founder profile and registration requirements — plus your fit for this program. Create a free account to view.
Funding providers
Benefits & Funding
- Amount
- Up to ₹56.8 Lakhs
What You Get
- Track 1 — Hub71 Access Programme (1 startup): Up to AED 250,000 (≈₹56.75L) cash via SAFE note + up to AED 250,000 (≈₹56.75L) in-kind incentives. Includes mentorship, investor introductions, regulatory support, and access to Hub71's corporate & government partners.
- Track 2 — Hub71 Immersion Programme (up to 7 startups): One week virtual prep on UAE ecosystem + one week in-person curated sessions at Hub71 in Abu Dhabi focused on market entry and partner introductions.
- Beyond Hub71: Investor introductions, streamlined UAE incorporation pathways, and additional financial/in-kind support from network partners.
- Disbursement
- Lump Sum
- Cohort size
- 20 startups
Timelines & Process
Selection Process
The selection process for the UAE-India Start-up Series 2.0 is highly competitive and structured into two main stages to identify high-potential Indian startups. Initially, all submitted written applications undergo a thorough screening process. These applications are evaluated based on a structured scoring rubric by independent evaluators, assessing the startup's potential, market traction, product innovation, and clarity of its UAE engagement roadmap. From this pool, up to 20 startups are shortlisted. In the second stage, these shortlisted startups are invited to participate in a final live pitch event held in Bengaluru. A panel of expert judges evaluates their presentations, business models, and scalability, ultimately selecting the winners and participants for the various support tracks, including the Hub71 Access and Immersion Programmes.
Application Process
- 1
Applications Open
The nationwide application window officially opens for interested Indian startups.
Provider - 2
- 3
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How to apply
Four steps from draft to disbursement — one action each.
- 1
Draft your application
Answer the form inside the grant tracker — AI drafts each response using your past answers, so you're not starting from a blank page.
- 2
See the questions before you start
Download every question this programme's application form asks, so you can prepare your answers offline before opening the portal.
- 3
Submit on the official portal
Use the official application link and verify all details before final submission.
- 4
Follow up
Reach out 5–7 days after submitting to confirm receipt and ask about the review timeline.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary goal of the UAE-India Start-up Series 2.0?
The program aims to promote, support, and connect high-potential Indian startups with meaningful opportunities in the UAE and international markets, fostering cross-border collaboration in innovation and entrepreneurship under the UAE–India Comprehensive Economic Partnership Agreement (CEPA).
What kind of startups are eligible to apply?
The program is open to high-potential Indian-registered entities with a clear product or service offering, demonstrated market traction, and a clear roadmap for engagement within the UAE market. Startups from both metro and non-metro regions are welcome.
What are the priority sectors for applications?
Priority sectors include FinTech, Advanced Manufacturing, Mobility & Logistics, AgriTech & Food Security, Space & Aerospace, HealthTech & MedTech, CleanTech & Sustainability, and AI & DeepTech.
What is the financial support offered?
One startup will receive up to AED 250,000 (approximately ₹56.75 lakh) in cash via a SAFE note as part of the Hub71 Access Programme. This is in addition to up to AED 250,000 in in-kind incentives.
What does the Hub71 Access Programme include?
Beyond cash, the Hub71 Access Programme provides tailored mentorship, investor introductions, regulatory support, and access to Hub71's corporate and government partners. Three startups are shortlisted for this program, with one eventually onboarded.
Is there an in-person component to the program?
Yes, shortlisted startups will participate in a Final Pitch Event in Bengaluru. Additionally, the Hub71 Immersion Programme includes a week of in-person curated sessions at Hub71 in Abu Dhabi, focused on market entry strategies.
