Dubai Holding Launches Innovate For Tomorrow Impact Accelerator 2025
Empowering Entrepreneurs for a Sustainable Future
Dubai Holding, a leading global investment firm with operations in ten sectors across 34 countries, has launched its second round of the Innovate For Tomorrow Impact Accelerator 2025. This initiative is designed to support and accelerate innovative solutions focused on the circular economy, ultimately aiming for a sustainable and resilient future. The accelerator invites entrepreneurs from around the world to rethink how resources are consumed and regenerated, encouraging bold ideas that can lead to significant environmental benefits.
Competition and Financial Incentives
Individuals and teams entering the program will have the chance to compete for a substantial prize pool of AED 850,000. The ultimate winner will receive funding for a pilot project and opportunities for real-world application within Dubai Holding’s diverse portfolio. This unique setup not only provides financial backing but also encourages practical implementation of innovative solutions within the company’s expansive ecosystem.
Mentorship and Training
Participants in the accelerator will benefit from dedicated mentorship, expert training, and access to investors through a partnership with TECOM Group’s start-up incubator, in5. This collaboration is designed to help entrepreneurs refine their business models, accelerate their go-to-market strategies, and gain insight into the dynamics of the sustainable business landscape.
Key Themes for Innovation
The 2025 accelerator focuses on three critical themes:
- Food Loss and Waste
- Resource Recovery and Regeneration
- Digital Innovation for Sustainability
Applications are open until November 25, 2025, and are welcome from innovators with inclusive and tech-enhanced solutions. The program seeks to support initiatives that can unlock new value while mitigating environmental impact.
Selection Process and Program Structure
From the applicant pool, 15 scale-ups will be chosen to participate in a 12-week hybrid accelerator program. This phase includes masterclasses, workshops, and tailored mentorship designed to prepare participants for the real-world challenges of implementing their solutions. The program also provides valuable networking opportunities across Dubai Holding’s extensive ecosystem.
The program will conclude with a Demo Day in 2026, where participants will showcase their solutions to a panel of investors and industry leaders. This event represents a crucial step for the teams, as the top-performing scale-ups will have the chance to secure real funding for their projects.
Previous Successes
The inaugural edition of the accelerator, conducted in 2024, was met with overwhelming interest, generating 150 submissions from 31 different countries. Notable winners included Othalo from Norway, which developed a method for upcycling plastic waste into affordable housing materials. The Surpluss from the UAE created a platform for redistributing surplus materials, while Midori Network focused on converting plastic waste into construction resources. All three companies have formed vital partnerships with Dubai Holding, establishing the accelerator’s role in fostering impactful innovations.
Commitment to Sustainable Development
Huda Buhumaid, Group Chief Impact Officer at Dubai Holding, emphasized the program’s alignment with the broader goals of the UAE, including the Circular Economy Policy 2031 and the Net Zero by 2050 initiative. By supporting forward-thinking solutions that can transform industries, Dubai Holding aims to make a lasting impact on communities and the planet.
Extensive Support Through in5
Powered by the in5 entrepreneurship ecosystem, the accelerator offers extensive resources and support tailored to help founders elevate their solutions. Founded by TECOM Group in 2013, in5 has a commendable track record of assisting over 1,000 start-ups in raising more than AED 7.8 billion in funding.
Closing Call for Applications
The Innovate For Tomorrow Impact Accelerator welcomes applications from scale-ups that possess a functional prototype or Minimum Viable Product, alongside early customer validation. Interested applicants can find more details and submit their applications until November 25, 2025.
To learn more about this opportunity and how to apply, visit the official website Dubai Holding.
Program Highlights
- The winning solution will receive funding for a proof-of-concept project and AED 500,000, while the second and third runners-up will be awarded AED 250,000 and AED 100,000, respectively.
- Participants will enjoy up to 20 hours of mentorship from industry experts.
- The top five scale-ups will gain one-year access to in5 incubation benefits, valued at AED 90,000.
- The program includes more than 15 masterclasses focusing on various business development aspects.
Dubai Holding continues to showcase its commitment to sustainability and innovation, providing essential resources for entrepreneurs dedicated to creating meaningful change.
