CyberE71, announced by H.E. Dr. Mohammed Al Kuwaiti at GISEC 2024, is an ambitious initiative serving as an umbrella for the UAE’s cybersecurity innovation ecosystem. This program is designed not only to identify and support the ideas of students and recent graduates but also to empower existing startups with strong potential within the cybersecurity sector. By creating a collaborative network of emerging talent, startups, and key industry players, CyberE71 aims to strengthen the UAE's position as a global leader in cybersecurity.

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Vision and Alignment with UAE Strategic Plans:

CyberE71 aligns with the UAE's broader vision as guided by its leadership. Rooted in the UAE Centennial 2071 Plan, the program contributes to the goal of equipping future generations with the skills needed to adapt to rapid global change, with the aim of making the UAE the best country in the world by its centennial. Additionally, it supports the UAE's National Cybersecurity Strategy, which seeks to build a secure and resilient cyber infrastructure that enables citizens to achieve their aspirations and businesses to thrive. Moreover, the initiative aligns with the National Digital Government Strategy, encouraging digital-first government operations by embedding digital considerations across strategies and structures at the national level.

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Empowering Future Cybersecurity Innovators and Building the Ecosystem:

CyberE71 functions as an ecosystem builder, fostering an environment that encourages collaboration and synergy between students, recent graduates, promising startups, and established players in the cybersecurity field. The program's primary focus is on supporting Emirati students with innovative ideas and helping existing startups demonstrate their potential. Through structured support, CyberE71 guides these participants in creating, protecting, and delivering the next generation of cybersecurity solutions, positioning the UAE as a hub for cybersecurity innovation and entrepreneurship.

 

Program Structure and Opportunities:

The CyberE71 initiative includes two distinct programs tailored to different stages of entrepreneurial development within the cybersecurity ecosystem.

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1. The first is a 6-month incubation program designed for students and recent graduates, featuring specialized training that helps participants refine their ideas, develop viable business models, and work toward creating a minimum viable product (MVP) or pilot. This program provides a nurturing environment for emerging talent to transform their innovative ideas into promising ventures.

2. The second program is geared toward existing startups with a proven business track record in the cybersecurity sector. This program offers continuous support, resources, and opportunities to scale their businesses and further strengthen their market position. By fostering ongoing development, CyberE71 ensures that promising startups receive the guidance and assistance needed to grow and thrive.

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Together, these programs bring diverse talent and resources under one umbrella, creating a robust cybersecurity ecosystem that drives innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth in the UAE. Through CyberE71, the UAE is establishing itself as a global leader in cybersecurity advancement, supporting both new innovators and established startups.