More than 1,500 Indian entrepreneurs have joined The “Gamechangers Middle East”, a new India-UAE startup initiative designed to help founders access investment, mentorship and expansion opportunities across the region.
According to startup advisor and entrepreneur R Madhavan, the initiative seeks to bridge the gap between Indian startups and the UAE’s growing innovation ecosystem by creating a structured platform for cross-border collaboration. The programme focuses on connecting founders with investors, industry leaders, mentors and strategic partners to help scale businesses beyond India.
Unlike traditional startup networks, The Gamechangers Middle East brings together entrepreneurs from technology, entertainment, artificial intelligence, fintech, media, and consumer business sectors. Selected founders will have access to expert mentorship, investor networking, strategic partnerships, and potential funding opportunities while exploring expansion into one of the world’s fastest-growing startup hubs.
Speaking about the initiative, Madhavan said the platform is designed to give entrepreneurs more than just access to capital. Instead, it aims to build a long-term ecosystem where founders can develop partnerships, gain industry insights and create globally scalable businesses.
The programme also plans to host masterclasses, panel discussions, investor pitches and leadership sessions, allowing founders to engage directly with successful entrepreneurs and business leaders. Organisers say the initiative will initially focus on India-UAE collaboration before expanding to other international startup ecosystems.
With the UAE continuing to strengthen its position as a regional hub for innovation and venture capital, The Gamechangers Middle East aims to create new pathways for Indian startups looking to raise funding, enter new markets and build global businesses.
