Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem, Hub71, signed its first US-based partnership with the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA). The Memorandum of Understanding (MoU), signed on the sidelines of the Abu Dhabi Investment Forum in New York, establishes a new bridge for high-growth startups to scale between the two ecosystems.
The agreement sets the foundation for reciprocal access between Abu Dhabi and New Jersey, enabling founders to expand their businesses internationally. The partnership also aims to strengthen strategic cooperation between the US and the UAE in high-impact sectors such as artificial intelligence and clean energy.
A structured pathway for cross-border expansion
Through joint programming, market visits, and facilitated introductions, startups from both ecosystems will receive soft-landing support in each market. Founders will gain access to new customer bases, capital opportunities, and tailored expertise to accelerate their commercial success.
The agreement was announced at the Investopia conference in Hong Kong, an event hosted by the UAE Ministry of Economy. The international platform was used to underscore the UAE’s mission to strengthen global economic partnerships through innovation.
Ahmad Ali Alwan, chief executive officer of Hub71, said: “Technology continues to transcend borders, and innovation ecosystems must strengthen their ties to support the global ambitions of founders. Our collaboration with Choose New Jersey is focused on unlocking soft-landing opportunities for startups looking to expand internationally, while deepening the exchange of knowledge, talent, and innovation. By opening our ecosystems to one another, we are creating pathways for ventures to achieve global scale.”
Tim Sullivan, chief executive officer of the NJEDA, commented: “Under Governor Murphy’s leadership, New Jersey is cultivating important international partnerships around the globe, leading to greater investments into new industries and a more diverse economy. The NJEDA has built a robust toolkit to support innovative startups, and we’re excited to work with Hub71 to promote the exciting opportunities in Abu Dhabi and the Garden State.”
Strengthening US-UAE ties in technology
The partnership follows a visit by New Jersey Governor Phil Murphy to Hub71’s headquarters at Abu Dhabi Global Market in April, reinforcing the UAE’s strategic position as a gateway for US startups looking to expand into the MENA region and beyond.
This MoU with the NJEDA marks another milestone in Hub71’s cross-border expansion strategy. It complements existing international partnerships, including a recent strategic alliance with the Japan External Trade Organisation (JETRO), aimed at advancing collaboration between the UAE and Japan. Together, these agreements highlight Hub71’s commitment to building a globally connected ecosystem.
