The Mohammed Bin Rashid Establishment for Small and Medium Enterprises Development (Dubai SME) has launched an innovative program called “Founders of Tomorrow.” In collaboration with INJAZ UAE, this initiative aims to enhance university entrepreneurship by connecting academic talent directly with real-world economic challenges. The program’s goal is to create a robust pipeline that transforms Emirati students into successful business founders, aligning with Dubai’s broader economic ambitions.

Bridging the Gap Between Academia and Business

Founders of Tomorrow is designed to link the brightest Emirati university students with pressing challenges faced by government and corporate sectors. By embedding practical issues within the curriculum, the program ensures that entrepreneurial initiatives are grounded in market demands. This approach not only fosters innovation but also aligns with Dubai’s Economic Agenda, D33, which intends to double the city’s economy by 2033. The initiative seeks to instill a solid understanding of entrepreneurial realities among students, giving them the tools required to thrive in a competitive marketplace.

Leadership Support and National Goals

Ahmad Al Room Almheiri, Acting CEO of Dubai SME, underlined the significance of Founders of Tomorrow in his remarks. He emphasized that this program is a pivotal step in reinforcing Dubai’s status as an entrepreneurship and innovation hub. Al Room Almheiri noted the initiative’s importance in creating a seamless transition from education to enterprise, thereby enhancing the flow of Emirati talent into the entrepreneurial arena. This broader vision is integral to nurturing resilient entrepreneurs who can compete on a global stage, further supported by government initiatives.

Empowering the Next Generation of Entrepreneurs

Razan Bashiti, CEO of INJAZ UAE, echoed similar sentiments regarding the program’s objectives. She stated that Founders of Tomorrow encapsulates their mission to convert the potential of Emirati youth into tangible economic contributions. By aligning university innovations with real governmental and corporate needs, the program equips emerging entrepreneurs with market-ready solutions that support Dubai’s D33 ambitions. Structured mentorship and hands-on guidance will be provided throughout various stages of development, ensuring that budding entrepreneurs are well-prepared to initiate scalable businesses.

Comprehensive Support and Resources

Participants in Founders of Tomorrow will benefit from an integrated suite of services tailored to assist at every phase of their entrepreneurial journey. This includes access to mentoring, funding opportunities, and market access support, all aimed at promoting sustainable business growth. Such resources are crucial for enhancing the competitiveness of Emirati enterprises within the broader SME ecosystem of Dubai, a central component of the emirate’s long-term economic diversification strategy.

In conclusion, the Founders of Tomorrow initiative represents a strategic commitment to cultivating a new generation of entrepreneurial talent in Dubai. With the support of various national entities, the program addresses real-life challenges while fostering innovation and collaboration among students and industry leaders. As the first phase of a long-term partnership between Dubai SME and INJAZ UAE, this initiative is set to play a vital role in shaping the future landscape of entrepreneurship in the region.