Athar+ is redefining Abu Dhabi’s social entrepreneurship landscape through mentorship, funding, and collaborative programming
In line with the UAE government’s campaign to position the nation as “The Startup Capital of the World”, the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an is accelerating its efforts to build a thriving ecosystem for social entrepreneurship through Athar+, Abu Dhabi’s first purpose-driven hub dedicated to accelerating social impact.
Launched in May 2025, Athar+ is a cornerstone initiative under Ma’an’s “From the Community to the Community” label, introduced during the Year of Community to honour and inspire civic engagement. The hub brings together social enterprises, non-profits, and changemakers into one dynamic, collaborative space, designed to enable mission-driven organisations to scale and thrive.
Entirely funded by community contributions, Athar+ empowers social impact-driven organisations by offering tailored programmes, designated workspaces, business support services, and expert mentorship. It builds on the legacy of the Ma’an Social Incubator (MSI), launched in 2019, which supported early-stage start-ups addressing key social priorities in the Emirate.
Since its inception, Athar+ has supported 33 third-sector organisations and built a vibrant community of 27 active member entities. It has launched three impactful programmes, delivered over 36 hours of expert-led training, and engaged 32 specialists from across the sector. Additionally, the hub has formed strategic collaborations with five service providers and five key partners, further reinforcing Abu Dhabi’s growing reputation as a leader in social innovation.
Athar+’s programming includes dedicated initiatives in social entrepreneurship, positioning the hub as a launchpad for ideas that deliver tangible social value. One of its standout initiatives is the Athar+ Hackathon, which invites students and aspiring entrepreneurs to design practical solutions to pressing societal challenges.
The hub’s efforts were recently showcased at Expand North Star, part of GITEX Global, where Athar+ presented its services and hosted a platform for twelve social enterprises to exhibit their work. A highlight of the event was the Social Impact Challenge, which drew over 100 applications. Eight finalists were shortlisted to pitch their innovative solutions, with the winners receiving not only financial grants but also access to Athar+’s full suite of services.
With a clear mandate to foster social entrepreneurship and civic innovation, Athar+ is playing a pivotal role in transforming Abu Dhabi into a beacon for purpose-led enterprise, empowering changemakers and organisations to deliver solutions that serve the greater good.
