Dubai, UAE: Dubai Startup Hub, an initiative of Dubai Chamber of Commerce and Industry, has launched “Co-Founder Dubai”, a new matchmaking programme offering UAE startups access to talent, and aspiring co-founders the unique opportunity to become a business owner.

The first-of-its-kind pilot programme, open to all UAE entrepreneurs, aims to improve the success rate of new businesses by finding the right co-founder to support their growth plans.

The announcement comes ahead of the Step Conference 2019 in Dubai, where Dubai Startup Hub is exhibiting and promoting the “Co-Founder Dubai” programme. Startups that are interested in applying can visit the Dubai Startup Hub stand at Step Conference to learn more about the programme’s benefits and requirements. Applications for the programme should be submitted through Dubai Startup Hub’s website.

Following the application process, a total of 10 UAE startups will be selected to participate in the matchmaking programme. Applications in the second phase will be open to aspiring co-founders who will later be shortlisted. By the end of the pilot, the selected startups will meet with various potential co-founders and choose one candidate that will join their respective teams.

For her part, Natalia Sycheva, Manager of Entrepreneurship at Dubai Chamber, said “Co-Founder Dubai” takes an innovative approach to supporting startups as it is designed around their unique needs and aspirations, adding that the holistic programme complements other initiatives offered to entrepreneurs in the UAE under the Dubai Startup Hub platform.

“Co-Founder Dubai will provide both new startup businesses and aspiring co-founders with far-reaching benefits, including comprehensive training, matchmaking days, a dedicated curriculum and high-caliber talent, ultimately enabling startups businesses to grow in the region,” she said.

Dubai Chamber launched Dubai Startup Hub in 2016 as an online platform to connect startups, entrepreneurs, developers, venture capitalists and students, enabling them to learn about new opportunities and create new partnerships that stimulate economic growth.