The Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Authority (ECA) announced the 20 selected startups for Cohort 05 of the Anjal Z Techstars founder catalyst programme.
The programme is tailored for startups focused on early childhood development, centering on families and children aged 0-8.
The programme, in line with ECA’s pillars of health and nutrition, early care and education, child protection and family support, will run from August to November 2024.
This year’s cohort includes two distinct startup tracks – Ignite Track, ideal for early-stage founders, and Launch Track for more established founders.
The selected Launch Track startups include Cubtale, Raising Superstars, Nao Now, Cali’s Books, Jade Autism and Neolook Solutions, while those for Ignite Track include Hibi, WoWPlay, Betweened, TopSchool.ai and Start Up Early.
For the first six weeks, it is offered virtually to the Ignite and Launch Track founders.
The final four weeks for Launch Track startups include an all-expenses-paid, in-person programme in Abu Dhabi in October.
This year, the programme will culminate at the Abu Dhabi Early Childhood Week, where the startups can network and explore potential collaborations with local ecosystem players.
Since the launch of Anjal Z in 2020, the programme has completed four cohorts, supported over 45 early and growth-stage startups and helped establish many Launch Track startups in Abu Dhabi.
Now in its fifth cohort, the Anjal Z programme offers a unique accelerator experience for early childhood development entrepreneurs.
It will provide equity-free funding, mentorship, and an extensive network of local partners to help participants grow their businesses and localise their solutions to positively impact children and families.
