Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem, Hub71, has signed its first U.S.-based partnership with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA). This collaboration aims to help startups scale internationally by providing access to both Abu Dhabi and New Jersey’s startup ecosystems. The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed during the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum in New York.
The partnership offers startups from both regions opportunities to expand internationally. Through joint programming, market visits, and introductions to investors, regulators, and corporates, startups will receive support to enter new markets.
Startups will gain access to new customer bases, capital opportunities, and tailored expertise to accelerate commercial success. This targeted backing from both ecosystems aims to support founders in scaling their ventures.
Strengthening US-UAE strategic co-operation
The agreement reinforces the US-UAE strategic cooperation across high-impact sectors such as AI and clean energy. It builds on the broader collaboration between the two regions to foster innovation and economic growth.
Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, emphasized the importance of strengthening ties between innovation ecosystems to support the global ambitions of founders. He stated, “Our collaboration with Choose New Jersey is focused on unlocking soft-landing opportunities for startups looking to expand internationally, while deepening the exchange of knowledge, talent, and innovation.”
Tim Sullivan, CEO of NJEDA, highlighted New Jersey’s commitment to cultivating international partnerships under Governor Phil Murphy’s leadership. “The NJEDA has built a robust toolkit to support innovative startups, and we’re excited to work with Hub71 to promote the exciting opportunities in Abu Dhabi and the Garden State,” he added.
Hub71’s deal with NJEDA adds to its expanding network of global alliances, including a recent tie-up with Japan’s trade agency JETRO to foster UAE–Japan innovation exchange. These partnerships are in-line with Hub71’s mission to create a borderless tech ecosystem that fuels collaboration and growth across major international markets.
This partnership will boost Hub71’s cross-border expansion strategy, complementing existing partnerships across Asia and Europe and advancing its mission to scale ventures globally from Abu Dhabi.