Dubai Founders HQ and Antler launch founder residency to upskill entrepreneurs and accelerate venture backed startups under D33.
DUBAI: Dubai Founders HQ has partnered with global venture capital firm Antler to launch a flagship founder residency programme aimed at creating a strong pipeline of venture backed startups from the emirate.
The multi year partnership was announced by the Dubai Department of Economy and Tourism and the Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy. The initiative is expected to upskill more than 600 founders, supporting them from idea stage to funded company.
Launched in October 2025, Dubai Founders HQ serves as the city’s central platform connecting entrepreneurs with investors, corporates and ecosystem partners. The collaboration aligns with the Dubai Economic Agenda D33, which aims to double the size of Dubai’s economy by 2033 and scale 30 unicorns from the city.
At the core of the partnership is Antler’s globally recognised Residency Programme, delivered from Dubai Founders HQ. The programme helps founders refine ideas, find co founders, build minimum viable products and access pre seed investment. Participants will also gain access to Antler’s Academy, offering structured training from investors, mentors and technology partners.
Antler has established its UAE headquarters within the Dubai Founders HQ campus, embedding its investment and programme teams into the local ecosystem. Officials said this on the ground presence will enable faster founder iteration and closer investor engagement.
Dubai Founders HQ said applications for the residency are now open, inviting entrepreneurs from the UAE and internationally to build and scale their startups in Dubai. The collaboration reinforces the emirate’s ambition to strengthen its position as a global innovation hub.
