Technology, Start-ups, Public Sector 

Accelerating Technological Innovation and Entrepreneurship in Abu Dhabi

Growth Strategy, Technology Acceleration, Start-ups, Government Partnership, Venture Capital

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Client Background

The client, a leading tech accelerator backed by the government of Abu Dhabi.  

Delivery Team

1 ex-Deloitte Senior manager with 12+ years of experience  
2 strategy associates with 5+ years of experience  
1 Innovation consultant  

Deployment

Remote 

Duration

12 weeks

Engagement

Objective

The project's primary goal was to assess the current state of the tech sector and investments in Abu Dhabi and the broader UAE. The client aimed to diversify revenue streams and drive sustainability by venturing into new area in the tech landscape, all encapsulated in a detailed five-year growth plan.  
  

Approach

Taken

Phase 1: Comprehensive Market Analysis and Initiative Assessment: 

  • Utilized a two-step assessment process to evaluate potential initiatives which can promote tech innovation effectively. The first step was Attractiveness Assessment, which was followed by Feasibility Assessment. 
  • After thorough analysis and deliberation of diverse potential areas, team deployed from StrategyConnect shortlisted five key initiatives. 

Phase 2: Strategic Formulation and Feasibility Analysis: 

  • Recommended a 'scale-up' strategy  through five selected initiatives, projecting a 10x growth within five years and a break-even point by the 5th year. 
  • Developed detailed program proposals for each initiative, including strategic roadmaps, execution steps, and resource allocations. Initial setup costs were considered, such as investment for new lab infrastructure. 
  • Outlined funding requirements for operational scale-up and an additional requirements for early-stage investments. 

Phase 3: Financial Planning and Budget Allocation: 

  • Strategic Budgeting: Allocated specific budget percentages for critical aspects of the program, ensuring a balanced financial approach. This included 15-20% for program marketing and 15-25% for professional services and mentorship, essential for the scale-up strategy.  
  • Infrastructure Investment: Committed to significant capital expenditure for the establishment of new lab infrastructure and prototyping facilities. These physical assets were crucial for the practical implementation of the initiatives, particularly those involving tangible technological developments.  
  • Diverse Financial Sources: Explored various channels for funding, including crowdfunding, private investors, and matching contributions from the Government of Abu Dhabi. This approach aimed to secure robust financial backing, minimizing dependency on a single source and spreading risk. 
  • Scaled Funding for Programs: Anticipated an increase in the program budget from Year 5 onwards, reflecting the scaling of both existing and new programs. This strategic financial planning ensured the initiatives' sustainability and growth, contributing to their long-term success and impact. 
      
      

Phase 4: Organizational Structuring and Compliance:   

  • Advised on the optimal organizational structure to ensure effective governance and operational efficiency. 
  • Planned for a strategic ramp-up of the organizational structure, projecting the growth from 12 Full-Time Equivalents (FTEs) to 58 FTEs over six years, aligning with program mandates
  • Provided detailed compliance guidelines, regulatory tests and requirements, critical for the registration of investment funds.  

Impact

Created

  • Successfully created a detailed and strategic 5 year scale-up plan projecting 10x growth.  
  • Supported the acceleration of various startups based on agreed growth milestones  strengthening the client’s role in the UAE's tech ecosystem. 
  • Anticipated contributions to UAE's GDP and job market, reinforcing client’s position as a regional innovation hub.  
      
      

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StrategyConnect deploys specialized talent on demand. We are one of the largest networks of independent consultants and industry experts driving the adoption of flexible workforce in the Middle East.

Copyright @ 2024 StrategyConnect Inc. All Rights Reserved.

StrategyConnect deploys specialized talent on demand. We are one of the largest networks of independent consultants and industry experts driving the adoption of flexible workforce in the Middle East.

Copyright @ 2024 StrategyConnect Inc. All Rights Reserved.