The program will run from mid-September to mid-November 2025, and applications are now open.

Apply here: https://tumarhub.com/acceleration1

Deadline: June 20

The Digital Startups Scale Up Program is a new initiative by the Central Asian Innovation Hub aimed at propelling the region’s top startups onto the global stage. The UAE is a strategic political and economic partner for both Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan in the Gulf region. In recent years, Dubai has become a global magnet for top tech companies, and this program supports the broader vision to grow tech exports to USD 1 billion in the coming years.

The accelerator includes multiple phases: pre-selection, final selection, preparation, program participation, Demo Day, and post-program support. To qualify, startups must meet the following criteria:

• Demonstrated traction and sustainable growth in their home market

• Readiness to localize their operations, team, and product for the UAE and broader MENA region

• A solid pitch deck with a clear and strategic expansion plan for the UAE

• Resources and commitment for the founder or co-founder to relocate to the UAE for the full 8-week program

Upon registering their business in the UAE, selected startups will enter an intensive 8-week accelerator hosted at DIFC Innovation Hub, led by top regional experts.

Key components of the program include:

• Curated mentorship and educational sessions

• Business development support, including introductions to potential clients, investors, and corporate partners

• Expert and regulatory guidance for entering the UAE market

• Product localization and go-to-market strategy assistance

• Access to co-working space at DIFC Innovation Hub

The program will conclude in late November with a Demo Day, where top-performing startups will pitch to investors and partners. Leading graduates will be eligible for investment and continued support from program partners. All participants will receive one year of free residency at Tumar Innovation Hub in the UAE.

This initiative follows the Memorandum of Understanding signed in April during Dubai AI Week between Astana Hub, IT Park Uzbekistan, DIFC Innovation Hub, and Al-Farabi Innovation Hub, marking the official launch of Tumar Innovation Hub in Dubai. The hub will provide Central Asian startups with access to the MENA market, capital, workspace, and a strong mentor network. Tumar Innovation Hub is operated by Aslan Sultanov and White Hill Capital, the management company behind Tumar VC and two other innovation hubs in the MENA region.

The signing ceremony was witnessed by Essa Kazim, Governor of DIFC, and Zhaslan Madiyev, Minister of Digital Development, Innovations, and Aerospace Industry of the Republic of Kazakhstan.