Eligible startups will receive guidance and resources to develop their businesses and compete in the cybersecurity market.
The Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development (KFED) has launched a new national accelerator program to support cybersecurity startups across the UAE. Developed in partnership with the UAE Cyber Security Council and CyberE71, the initiative seeks to help entrepreneurs build innovative cybersecurity businesses while strengthening the country’s rapidly growing digital economy.
The program was announced during an event at MZN Hub Al Ain attended by Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti, head of cybersecurity for the UAE government, and Mouza Obaid Al Nasri, chief executive officer of the Khalifa Fund.
Supporting the Next Generation of Cybersecurity Startups
The accelerator is designed to attract, develop, and scale startups focused on cybersecurity technologies. It builds on an existing memorandum of understanding between the Khalifa Fund and the UAE Cyber Security Council, which established a framework for cooperation in entrepreneurship, innovation, and cybersecurity.
Through the new initiative, eligible startups will receive structured support to transform innovative ideas into scalable businesses capable of competing in both local and international markets.
The program is part of the UAE’s broader efforts to strengthen its digital economy and encourage entrepreneurship in strategic technology sectors.
Mentorship, Partnerships, and Industry Access
Selected startups will gain access to an acceleration program focused on business development, product innovation, and market expansion.
Participants will also benefit from mentorship, networking opportunities, strategic partnerships, and direct engagement with industry experts, investors, and other key stakeholders within the cybersecurity ecosystem.
The organizers said the program aims to improve the competitiveness of cybersecurity startups by helping founders refine their business models, expand operations, and commercialize innovative solutions.
Strengthening the UAE’s Cybersecurity Ecosystem
According to the UAE Cyber Security Council, cybersecurity has evolved beyond being a purely technical discipline and is now a strategic pillar supporting economic growth and national resilience.
Dr. Mohamed Al Kuwaiti said cybersecurity plays an increasingly important role in protecting digital infrastructure while creating opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship.
He added that the new accelerator reflects how collaboration between national institutions can help build globally competitive cybersecurity companies while strengthening the UAE’s position as a regional and international technology hub.
The initiative is also expected to improve the country’s digital readiness by encouraging locally developed cybersecurity solutions that can address both domestic and global challenges.
Khalifa Fund Focuses on Entrepreneurial Growth
Mouza Obaid Al Nasri said the accelerator reinforces the Khalifa Fund’s commitment to supporting entrepreneurs through strategic partnerships and specialized business development programs.
She noted that creating an enabling environment for startups allows innovative ideas to develop into sustainable businesses capable of generating long-term economic value.
The program also supports the UAE’s wider economic diversification strategy by strengthening local technology companies and increasing the competitiveness of Emirati cybersecurity ventures.
Driving Innovation Through Collaboration
The accelerator brings together the expertise of the Khalifa Fund, the UAE Cyber Security Council, and CyberE71 to create a dedicated support ecosystem for cybersecurity entrepreneurs.
By combining technical expertise, mentorship, investor access, and business acceleration, the initiative aims to develop a new generation of cybersecurity companies capable of serving customers in the UAE and expanding into international markets.
As cybersecurity continues to become a strategic priority for governments and businesses worldwide, the program positions the UAE to play a larger role in developing innovative technologies while supporting homegrown entrepreneurs in one of the world’s fastest-growing industries.
Source: Entrepreneur
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