DIFC Innovation Hub and du Unite to Accelerate SME Innovation

du, a subsidiary of Emirates Integrated Telecommunications Company (EITC), has partnered with the DIFC Innovation Hub to launch the ‘du Business Entrepreneurship Programme’. This initiative is designed to empower entrepreneurs and start-ups through cutting-edge programmes and initiatives, enhancing the UAE’s business ecosystem.

Creating a Thriving Entrepreneurial Community

Anchored within the DIFC Innovation Hub at ‘Innovation One’, the ‘Entrepreneurship Hub’ aims to be the epicentre for SMEs and start-ups. A curated schedule of workshops will align with the entrepreneurial community’s aspirations, bolstering du’s strategic role in supporting the UAE’s progressive economic ambitions.

Empowering SMEs for Growth

The programme focuses on scalability and accessibility for SMEs, offering flexible telecom and workspace solutions. Practical training in communication, marketing, and cybersecurity will enhance digital literacy, productivity, and innovation. SMEs will also learn to integrate the latest technologies, such as AI, to streamline operations and enhance competitiveness. The programme guides SMEs through digital transformation, covering strategic planning, technology adoption, and organisational change management.

Strategic Partnership for Economic Diversification

The partnership was formalized in a signing ceremony attended by Arif Amiri, CEO of DIFC Authority, and Fahad Al Hassawi, CEO of du. Mohammad Alblooshi, CEO of DIFC Innovation Hub, and Karim Benkirane, Chief Commercial Officer of du, signed the agreement.

Fahad Al Hassawi stated, “In alignment with our strategic objectives, du is proud to cement a partnership with DIFC Innovation Hub, marking a shared commitment to fostering an entrepreneurial environment in the Middle East. The du Business Entrepreneurship Programme is poised to serve as a catalyst, offering resources, mentorship, and dynamic networking to facilitate growth and development across the start-up ecosystem.”

Arif Amiri added, “SMEs and start-ups are the backbone of Dubai’s economy and the driving force behind innovation and job creation. The next generation of leaders in the ‘du Business Entrepreneurship Programme’ will benefit from access to a growing community of world-leading talent, unleashing their growth potential.”

Synergies for Innovation

This collaboration leverages du’s telecommunications leadership and DIFC’s expertise as a global financial hub. The announcement follows the inauguration of the Dubai AI Campus, which facilitates multinational technology partnerships with the DIFC Innovation Hub and du. Participants will benefit from the AI Campus’ ecosystem, driving future innovation in AI.

Specialised Workshops and AI Transformation

Aligned with the D33 agenda, the programme will curate workshops to enable AI transformation within the SME sector in the UAE. Themes will include optimising customer acquisition using AI, building CRM systems, adopting emerging technologies, and improving back-office efficiency.

Innovative Workspace Solutions

Entrepreneurs will have access to innovative workspace solutions at the DIFC Innovation Hub, available for booking via the “Letswork” app. This workspace aims to foster creativity and new business ideas. Entrepreneurs will also benefit from customized du business solution bundles, providing the necessary support and resources for building and scaling tech-driven businesses.

The DIFC Innovation Hub and du’s partnership heralds a new era of SME innovation in the UAE, contributing significantly to the nation’s economic diversification and global competitiveness.