Ireland’s Continuous Ventures Becomes Strategic Partner in UAE’s NextGen FDI Initiative
The Ministry of Economy has officially announced a strategic partnership with Continuous Ventures, an Ireland-based venture capital firm and accelerator.
The collaboration aims to support the UAE’s NextGen FDI initiative, which seeks to attract pioneering global companies to the country, particularly in high-potential sectors such as med-tech, renewable energy, advanced manufacturing, agri-tech, and trade tech.
Continuous Ventures, founded in 2018 in Dublin, is recognized for its expertise in helping high-potential tech startups scale. The firm will contribute to the NextGen FDI initiative by assessing potential programme entrants, providing go-to-market strategies for recently onboarded companies, and introducing their network of startups to the initiative. The partnership aligns with the UAE’s broader mission to diversify its economy and solidify its position as a global leader in innovation and entrepreneurship.
Dr. Thani Al Zeyoudi, Minister of State for Foreign Trade, expressed his confidence in the partnership, highlighting that it underscores the UAE’s commitment to fostering a knowledge-based economy.
"This collaboration with Continuous Ventures will play an important role in our efforts to make the UAE the destination of choice for pioneering enterprises at every stage of their growth journey. As we accelerate our economic diversification efforts, nurturing new ideas, capabilities, and ventures will support our ambition to develop an economy based on knowledge and innovation,"
he said.
The experience of Continuous Ventures will not only help startups tap into local and regional opportunities but will also expand their reach through a global network, further positioning the UAE as a hub for emerging enterprises.
Colin Meagle, Founding Partner of Continuous Ventures, shared his enthusiasm about the collaboration.
“The UAE is an ideal base for our headquarters due to its forward-looking approach to technology and innovation. Through our partnership with NextGen FDI, we can help homegrown startups compete on a global stage, transforming local ideas into world-changing companies. This collaboration marks an exciting new chapter for us, and we're honoured to contribute to the UAE's journey towards becoming a world leader in tech innovation."
Continuous Ventures, now headquartered in Dubai, offers a hands-on support model for early-stage companies, providing resources, industry knowledge, mentorship, and operational guidance in key areas like market research, product development, and financial management. The firm’s ESG investing focus is also in line with the NextGen FDI initiative’s aim of accelerating the growth of high-potential, sustainable businesses.
The venture firm will initially focus on supporting UAE-based startups through its Dubai and Abu Dhabi offices, with plans for a larger campus-style facility in DIFC as the programme expands. In addition to its direct support, Continuous Ventures will introduce a network of investors to the region, further contributing to the growth of the UAE’s startup ecosystem.
This partnership marks a pivotal step in enhancing the UAE’s reputation as a global innovation hub, fostering a dynamic ecosystem where local entrepreneurs can collaborate, refine their ideas, and achieve their next milestone.
News Source: Emirates News Agency