The UAE’s Future 100 initiative has attracted USD 100 million (AED 367 million) in investments through its partners, benefiting more than 53 startups as the country strengthens support for businesses operating in emerging economic sectors.
Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri, UAE Minister of Economy and Tourism and Co-Chair of Investopia’s Board of Trustees, announced this during Investopia Bridge 2026 in Abu Dhabi. The event also honored the initiative’s third cohort of 100 companies.
Jointly launched by the Ministry of Economy and Tourism and the Government Development and the Future Office, Future 100 aims to support entrepreneurship and accelerate the growth of businesses contributing to the UAE’s new economy.
During Investopia Bridge 2026, Future 100 signed three memoranda of understanding with Nawa Capital Limited, Global Ventures and Carta to strengthen support for participating companies.
The agreement with Nawa Capital Limited focuses on business development, growth opportunities, partnerships, and evaluating companies applying to the initiative.
Global Ventures has committed to allocating at least USD 1 million for investment in one or more companies participating in Future 100.
Meanwhile, Carta will provide specialized services to improve startups’ investment readiness, including valuation, compliance, and equity management support. It will also offer training and mentoring programs, along with a 25% discount on its annual platform subscription for the first year.
Bin Touq said the initiative reflects the UAE’s broader efforts to strengthen entrepreneurship through legislation, incentives, and programs that encourage innovation and business expansion. He added that the investments and strategic partnerships support the UAE Vision 2031 objectives to position the country as a global hub for the new economy.
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Since its launch, Future 100 has received 3,395 applications and nominations, including 1,282 during its third cycle. Across three editions, the initiative has selected 300 companies representing 17 new economy sectors.
The initiative’s network has expanded to 42 partners, including government entities, venture capital funds, financial institutions, technology companies and business accelerators. Partners include Emirates NBD, Microsoft, Careem, EY, Investopia and the Mohamed bin Zayed University of Artificial Intelligence.
Supported sectors include space technology, biotechnology, renewable energy, healthcare technology, cybersecurity, advanced manufacturing, fintech, smart mobility, agritech, edtech and food technology.
Companies are assessed on innovation, market potential, business model sustainability and scalability, and environmental, social and governance impact.
Applications for the next edition will open in October 2026. Eligible startups can apply through the initiative’s official website, www.future100.ae, for opportunities involving investment networks, strategic partnerships, and business development support.