IFZA, Plug And Play Launch Scale360 Accelerator

The International Free Zone Authority (IFZA), a business-focused free zone in Dubai, has launched Scale360, a startup accelerator developed in partnership with the California-based innovation platform Plug and Play.  

Scale360 will connect globally-scaling international startups with companies in the UAE seeking practical technologies and business solutions, utilizing Dubai's strategic location to make linkages between markets across the Middle East, Africa, Asia, and Europe. In doing so, it aims to support corporate innovation in Dubai, allowing large corporations to gain access to new revenue streams and offering them a competitive edge in the market.

In a statement, Julia Timms, Chief Commercial Officer at IFZA, said, “Our mission at IFZA is to empower businesses to grow from Dubai and beyond. We believe businesses have the superpower to build bridges that enable innovation, collaboration, and sustainable growth, supporting social transformation through economic innovation. Scale360 is more than just an innovation program connecting companies with high-growth startups to drive business transformation; it also helps to foster collaboration, unlock business opportunities, and drive economic growth.” 

Benjamin Kloss, Vice President Corporate Partnerships and UAE Director at Plug and Play Tech Center, commented, “Scale360 is a testament to the region's forward-thinking vision. From Plug and Play's vantage point, we see immense potential in creating a truly interconnected ecosystem where global startups and established corporates can collaborate seamlessly in crucial sectors including sustainability, AI, robotics, smart mobility, and future-forward enterprise solutions. This program showcases the UAE as a key player and a central hub for fostering and deploying innovative and disruptive technologies." 

The program provides participating startups with office space, legal and compliance training, support in setting up banking services, and assistance with market entry. It also includes access to networking events, mentorship from UAE-based professionals, and information on the local business environment and procurement procedures. 

Although open to various industries, the accelerator focuses on businesses using technology to address specific market needs, with a focus on international startups operating in areas such as sustainability, artificial intelligence, robotics, smart cities, mobility, and enterprise software. 

Interested startups should prepare a pitch deck and a 2–3 minute video, which can be recorded using a phone or computer, that outlines the company's solution, why the founders are suited to solving the problem, the traction achieved so far, and the value expected from joining the program. Startups can then apply by filling out a form here.