Post by : Bianca
Haleem
Dubai Holding has officially opened applications for the second edition of its Innovate For Tomorrow Impact Accelerator 2025, a global programme aimed at empowering scale-ups to develop sustainable solutions that can transform industries. The initiative, delivered in partnership with TECOM Group’s start-up incubator, in5, focuses on advancing a circular economy while promoting innovation across food waste, resource recovery, and digital sustainability.
Scale-ups from around the world can compete for a total prize pool of AED850,000, including AED500,000 for the winner, alongside pilot funding and an opportunity to implement their solution within Dubai Holding’s diversified operations. The programme seeks entrepreneurs with functional prototypes or minimum viable products, early market validation, and a commitment to scale in the UAE.
From the global applications, 15 selected scale-ups will enter a 12-week hybrid accelerator programme, receiving mentorship from industry leaders, masterclasses on business and technical development, access to investor networks, and opportunities to test solutions across Dubai Holding’s infrastructure. The programme will conclude with a Demo Day in 2026, where the top three scale-ups will be recognized, and the winner will advance into real-world implementation.
The 2024 edition of the accelerator demonstrated its impact, receiving 150 applications from 31 countries. Notable winners included Norway’s Othalo, which upcycles plastic waste into housing, and UAE-based The Surpluss and Midori Network, which transform excess materials and plastic waste into construction solutions. These initiatives are now actively partnering with Dubai Holding, showcasing the programme’s ability to foster tangible, scalable change.
The 2025 edition continues Dubai Holding’s mission to empower innovative solutions aligned with the UAE Circular Economy Policy 2031 and Net Zero by 2050 vision. Participants also gain access to in5 incubation benefits, workshops, mentorship, and Dubai Holding’s extensive ecosystem covering real estate, hospitality, entertainment, and asset management.
Applications are open until 25 November 2025, inviting entrepreneurs worldwide to submit solutions that reduce environmental pressures, unlock new value, and contribute to a sustainable future.
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