Hub71, Abu Dhabi’s global tech ecosystem, has signed a strategic partnership with Venturewave Capital, one of Ireland’s leading private equity and venture capital firms. The agreement marks a significant deepening of ties between the two nations, positioning Venturewave as Hub71’s first Irish venture capital partner.
The collaboration aims to create reciprocal growth pathways for startups in both Abu Dhabi and Ireland. Venturewave Capital, which is currently in the process of incorporating within the Abu Dhabi Global Market (ADGM), will play a pivotal role in supporting the growth of startups in priority impact sectors, including Health, Education, Food & Agriculture, Climate, and Sustainable Finance.
Beyond capital, the firm will contribute to Hub71’s selection process, helping to evaluate candidates for its programs. Crucially for Abu Dhabi-based founders, Venturewave will act as a bridge for expansion into European and North American markets. Conversely, the partnership creates new entry points for Irish startups looking to tap into opportunities within the UAE.
Diplomatic momentum
The partnership follows a series of high-level diplomatic engagements commemorating 50 years of relations between the UAE and Ireland. Earlier this year, a UAE delegation led by H.E. Reem Al Hashimy visited Dublin to explore tech collaboration. This was reciprocated this week by an Irish delegation led by H.E. Peter Burke, Ireland’s Minister for Enterprise, Tourism and Employment, who visited Hub71’s headquarters.
Ahmad Ali Alwan, CEO of Hub71, commented on the strategic alignment: “Our engagement with Ireland’s innovation ecosystem continues to deepen following this year’s high-level visits and ongoing collaboration. The partnership with Venturewave Capital strengthens Hub71’s venture network and opens new pathways for founders on both sides to access international markets, capital, and expertise.”
Alan Foy, chairman of Venturewave Capital, added: “We are especially excited to foster deeper links between the UAE and Ireland as a gateway to Europe, creating new pathways for innovation, capital and cross-border collaboration.”
The move reinforces Hub71’s broader strategy to expand its network of international partners, ensuring that Abu Dhabi remains a globally connected node for high-impact technology and innovation.
