Future Technology Week will debut The Hive – billed by organisers Dubai World Trade Centre (DWTC) as the ‘Start-up showdown of the century’. The Hive will see the region’s leading young entrepreneurs pitch unique start-up concepts conceived to solve today’s greatest technology challenges.
During The Hive, the contestants will present breakthrough business concepts to a live audience and judging panel in a five-minute pitch on the first day of Future Technology Week. The panel of judges includes Ibrahim Tadros, Head, Business Development and Strategy, Wamda; Muhammed Mekki, Founding Partner, AstroLabs; Jonny Voon, IoT Lead, Innovate UK, and Shaun Moore, CEO and Founder, Chui – the world’s smartest doorbell.
“The Hive is a dedicated innovative platform for budding, ambitious entrepreneurs to present their entrepreneurial ideas and innovative start-up business concepts. It’s the start-up showdown of the century,” said Trixie LohMirmand, Senior Vice President, Exhibitions & Events, DWTC, the Future Technology Week organiser.
The contestants’ submissions will be judged on six criteria including practical use of product or solution, innovative use of technology, ease of implementation, sustainable business model, user adoption to date and difference to other products in the market. The Hive’s ultimate winner will be awarded a cash prize of AED 50,000.
“Technology and innovation together make an ideal SME platform for entrepreneurs and start-ups to pursue success. A key finding in our State of the SME report was that innovative SMEs tend to be more internationally oriented.” said Saeed Matar Al Marri, Deputy CEO of Dubai SME.