du and DIFC Innovation Hub Launch 'du Business Entrepreneurship Programme' to Propel UAE Start-Ups

du, from Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC), today announced a strategic partnership agreement with DIFC Innovation Hub to launch the 'du Business Entrepreneurship Programme', designed to provide substantial support to entrepreneurs and start-ups, focusing on cutting-edge programmes and initiatives that encourage innovation within the UAE’s business ecosystem.

Anchored within the DIFC Innovation Hub at 'Innovation One', the 'Entrepreneurship Hub' serves as a professional epicentre for SMEs and start-ups. A curated schedule of workshops, aligned with the aspirations of the entrepreneurial community, solidifies du's strategic position in supporting the UAE's progressive economic ambitions.

The programme boosts SMEs' scalability and accessibility through telecom and workspace solutions, enhancing digital literacy in communication, marketing, and cybersecurity. It trains SMEs in AI integration, strategic planning, technology adoption, and change management, aiming for increased productivity, innovation, and sustainable growth in a dynamic business landscape.

Fahad Al Hassawi, Chief Executive Officer at du, said,

“In alignment with our strategic objectives, du is proud to cement a partnership with DIFC Innovation Hub, marking a shared commitment to fostering entrepreneurial environment in the Middle East. This initiative is a part of our mission to bolster the regional economy through the empowerment of SMEs and start-ups. The du Business Entrepreneurship Programme is primed to serve as a catalyst, offering a suite of resources, expert mentorship and dynamic networking conduits. We are poised to facilitate growth and development across the start-up ecosystem, contributing to the sustained economic diversification and innovation that characterises the UAE national vision."

Arif Amiri, Chief Executive Officer, DIFC Authority, commented,

“SMEs and start-ups are the backbone of Dubai’s economy and the driving force behind innovation and job creation. DIFC is already home to over 1,000 FinTech and Innovation companies and an ever-evolving ecosystem driving the future of finance. The next generation of leaders taking part in the 'du Business Entrepreneurship Programme' will benefit from access to this growing community of world-leading talent as they come together to unleash their growth potential.”

The partnership leverages du's telecom expertise and DIFC's financial hub status, announced after the Dubai AI Campus inauguration. The collaboration aims to foster AI innovation through the Dubai AI Campus, benefiting participants in the 'du Business Entrepreneurship Programme' with an AI-centric ecosystem.

The 'du Business Entrepreneurship Programme' will offer specialized workshops to support AI transformation in UAE SMEs and start-ups, focusing on customer acquisition, CRM systems, emerging technologies, customer engagement, and back-office efficiency, in alignment with the D33 agenda for SME scale-up.

Entrepreneurs at the DIFC Innovation Hub's new Innovation One building will access tailored workspaces and du business solution bundles, bookable via the “Letswork” app, to foster creativity and tech-driven business growth.

News Source: Emirates News Agency