UAE-Based Emirates NBD Launches Fourth Cohort Of NDTI

Emirates NBD, one of the UAE's leading financial services brands, has announced the launch of the fourth cohort of its National Digital Talent Incubator (NDTI) program, designed to support the next group of Emirati fintech founders. 

The program is backed by the Dubai International Financial Centre (DIFC) Innovation Hub, global payments leader Visa, as well as tech giants Microsoft and Dell Technologies, who have also backed the previous three editions. 

The six-to-eight-week incubator provides startups with mentorship, resources, and networking opportunities to help grow their ventures. It aligns with the UAE’s digital transformation goals by supporting entrepreneurship and talent development in the fintech sector, which contributes 8.7 percent to the country’s gross domestic product (GDP). 

In a statement, Mohammad Alblooshi, CEO, DIFC Innovation Hub, said, “Empowering the next generation of Emirati fintech talent is essential to shaping a future-ready digital-driven economy. At DIFC Innovation Hub, we are proud to support initiatives like the National Digital Talent Incubator that align with our mission to nurture high-potential founders and accelerate the growth of homegrown ventures. By collaborating with Emirates NBD and other leading partners, we are creating a thriving ecosystem where Emirati entrepreneurs can access the tools, mentorship, and global exposure they need to lead the next wave of fintech innovation from Dubai to the world.” 

Ahmed Al Qassim, Group Head of Wholesale Banking, Emirates NBD, commented, “Emirates NBD is proud to welcome the fourth cohort of the National Digital Talent Incubator Program. Solidifying our commitment to supporting the UAE's vision for a thriving digital economy, the program creates opportunities for fintech startups to flourish and contribute to the investment environment within the UAE. By providing these talented entrepreneurs with access to mentorship, networking, and investment, we are helping them build innovative solutions that will positively impact the industry and economy.” 

The fourth cohort will cater to startups working in various sectors and includes QuickPay, which speeds up invoice payments in real estate, Carbon2Capital, an artificial intelligence (AI) platform for tracking and managing carbon emissions, Jadwelny, an AI-based travel planning platform, and Watermelon LTD, which connects manufacturers, farmers, and F&B outlets. 

The program provides participants with tailored meetings with Emirates NBD senior stakeholders, immersion days with partners, and sessions through its decision-makers series to connect founders with the bank’s leadership. Participants also receive guidance on venture capital pitching and opportunities to network with industry professionals and renowned SMEs. 

In June 2025, participants will visit London to engage with the fintech ecosystem there and explore opportunities to expand their businesses internationally. 

Pictured in the lead image are participants in the fourth cohort of Emirates NBD's National Digital Talent Incubator (NDTI) program. Image courtesy Emirates NBD.