EGA Launches Season 3 of "Ramp-Up" to Support UAE Entrepreneurs
Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA), the largest industrial company in the UAE outside the oil and gas sector, has announced the launch of the third season of its "Ramp-Up" entrepreneurship program. Supported by the UAE Ministry of Economy, this initiative aims to foster the next generation of promising entrepreneurs, aligning with the national "Entrepreneurial Nation 2031" goals.
Fostering UAE's Next Generation of Entrepreneurs
The Ramp-Up program is designed to significantly contribute to the UAE's sustainable economic growth and job creation by supporting innovative startup projects. It provides intensive training courses and guidance from global experts to empower entrepreneurs and help bring their ventures to life.
What the Ramp-Up Program Offers
Now entering its third season, the program builds on past successes. Key elements include:
Intensive Training: Structured courses covering essential business skills.
Expert Guidance: Mentorship and direction from global industry professionals.
Partner Support: Implemented in collaboration with C3 (Companies Creating Change), a UAE-based social enterprise that supports regional entrepreneurs in scaling their impact.
New for Season 3: Microsoft UAE joins as a partner, offering workshops and mentorship focused on developing tech-based strategies for startup growth.
Proven Track Record & EGA Integration
The first two seasons of Ramp-Up attracted hundreds of entrepreneurs, with participating companies collectively creating over 1,000 jobs. Notably, women founded approximately 35% of the startups in the previous cohorts. EGA actively explores pilot projects with program participants to localize its procurement needs, supporting local business growth. A key example is the 2024 partnership with Season 1 finalist Nadeera to launch an innovative recycling program near EGA's Jebel Ali site.
Minister of State for Entrepreneurship, H.E. Alia bint Abdullah Al Mazrouei, highlighted the program's success, noting that several past finalists are now listed among the UAE's "Top 100 Future Companies".
Who Should Apply?
The program targets ambitious entrepreneurs and startup founders within the UAE who are looking to develop impactful projects contributing to the nation's economy.
Application Details
Applications for Season 3 are now open and will close on May 11, 2025.
Learn More & Apply: Visit the official program page at www.ega.ae/en/ramp-up
About the Organizers & Partners
Emirates Global Aluminium (EGA): The UAE's largest industrial company outside oil and gas, a major player in the global aluminium industry.
UAE Ministry of Economy: Provides governmental support, aligning the program with national strategies like "Entrepreneurial Nation 2031".
C3 (Companies Creating Change): A UAE-based social enterprise supporting entrepreneurs across the region.
Microsoft UAE: Partnering for Season 3 to provide tech-focused training and mentorship.
Watan Fund (Sondooq Al Watan): Also mentioned as a partner supporting the program's goals.
Looking Ahead
EGA CEO Abdulnasser Bin Kalban expressed anticipation for meeting the promising startups participating this year, hoping some will eventually join EGA's local supplier list. The continued collaboration between major industry players like EGA, government bodies, and support organizations like C3 and Microsoft highlights a strong commitment to building a vibrant and sustainable entrepreneurial ecosystem in the UAE.
Source: Zawya