• EDB launches USD 136M financing solutions for startups and MSMEs under nationwide campaign to boost entrepreneurship across the UAE.
• The initiative offers financial and non-financial support, including credit guarantees, co-lending, accelerator access, and mentorship programmes for founders.
• Through EDB 360, entrepreneurs can open business accounts quickly, access financing without traditional collateral, and connect with ecosystem partners.
  

Emirates Development Bank 

Emirates Development Bank (EDB) launched new financing solutions and support programs for startups and MSMEs under a nationwide entrepreneurship campaign.
The initiative, part of “The Emirates: Startup Capital of the World,” aims to boost innovation and accelerate the UAE’s economic diversification.

As part of the rollout, EDB is issuing USD 136 million (AED 500M) in financing solutions. These solutions will be available through credit guarantees, co-lending programmes and receivables-based support via fintech partners.

Established in 2011, Emirates Development Bank (EDB) is a development bank focusing on economic development and industrial advancement. It provides financial and non-financial support to businesses of all sizes—from start-ups and SMEs to corporates. Furthermore, it focuses on sectors such as advanced technology, food security, healthcare, renewables, and manufacturing. 

Startup Support

Beyond financials, the campaign will  include non-financial enablement programmes for 500 entrepreneurs. It will also include accelerator access in collaboration with national programmes such as AgriX, MIITE and MBRIF.

The campaign is designed to accelerate entrepreneurship across all seven emirates. This is through providing founders with faster access to financing, digital onboarding tools, mentorship programmes and accelerator pathways. 

Through EDB 360, the Bank’s digital platform, entrepreneurs will be able to open business accounts in minutes. They will also be able to apply for financing without traditional collateral barriers. It will also connect with ecosystem partners who can support them in launching or scaling their businesses.

Entrepreneurs Hub

The Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy launched a joint initiative called the ‘Dubai Entrepreneurs Hub.’  It will serve as a platform to unify efforts and strengthen the ecosystem for startups and SMEs in the emirate.

The initiative aims to provide a fruitful business environment and pave the way for a new generation of entrepreneurs. It also seeks to support the growth of 30 startups into global “unicorn” companies, and enhance the regional and international presence of 400 SMEs.