Abu Dhabi: The Future 100, a joint initiative between the Ministry of Economy and the Office of Government Development and the Future, announced the enterprises classified in the list of the Future100 companies of 2024 after passing the evaluation process and meeting the required standards. The list included the best 100 start-ups contributing to enhancing the competitiveness of the sectors of the future economy in the UAE, in the presence of Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy, Chairman of Investopia; Alia bint Abdullah Al Mazrouei, Minister of State for Entrepreneurship; and Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi, Minister of State for Government Development and the Future. It came during the activities of the fourth edition of Investopia 2025 held in Abu Dhabi over two days, February 26-27.
According to Emirates News Agency, Abdullah bin Touq Al Marri, Minister of Economy and Chairman of Investopia, stated that the UAE has made significant progress towards transforming into new economic sectors, supported by its leadership's directives. He highlighted Investopia's forward-looking vision to support the growth of innovative start-up businesses and encourage the use of modern technology applications across various economic sectors. Hosting the Future100 companies initiative for the second year in a row reflects national efforts to enhance the competitiveness of the entrepreneurial environment and establish the UAE as a hub for future projects and a center for creativity and innovation.
Alia Al Mazrouei emphasized the initiative's role in supporting the UAE's vision of a dynamic and competitive national economy on a global scale. She noted an 11% increase in the total number of applications received in 2024 compared to 2023, with a focus on financial technology, sustainability, and creative industries. The initiative aims to provide new opportunities for entrepreneurs and small to medium enterprises to expand their ideas within the sustainable economy sectors, facilitating connections with investment funds and global investors.
Ohood bint Khalfan Al Roumi highlighted the UAE's integrated approach to future development, focusing on sector adaptability and innovation. The Future100 initiative embodies this vision by stimulating future sector development and reinforcing the UAE's position as an attractive destination for start-up prosperity. Since its inception in 2023, the initiative has attracted start-ups across various sectors, including space, cybersecurity, and smart mobility, contributing to the 'We the Emirates 2031' vision and the development of a knowledge-based economy.
The Minister of State for Government Development and the Future congratulated the selected start-ups for 2024, acknowledging their potential contribution to the UAE's future economy. She also thanked the initiative's 38 partners, including the National Fund for Social Responsibility Majra, and others like Microsoft, Emirates NBD, and the Dubai International Financial Center Innovation Hub, for their pivotal role in the initiative's success.
The 2025 edition of the Future100 companies initiative continues to strengthen partnerships with government entities and various innovation and financial organizations. These collaborations are crucial in supporting the selected start-ups, enhancing their access to investment and financing opportunities, and facilitating their digital transformation and market expansion efforts.
