Developing a knowledge-based economy

The University's new Science and Innovation Park (SIP) will play a key role in driving the region's knowledge economy by targeting technology-led companies that are seeking both a strategic location and access to the high-quality research and graduate support provided by the University.

The Science and Innovation Park will be located on the main university campus in the city of Al Ain. The dedicated facilities and services provide a platform for the regional knowledge economy to thrive. Set in an innovative research environment, the SIP provides opportunities for businesses and academics to collaborate, to share knowledge and expertise and to drive forward innovation.  

The park provides a range of business start-up assistance to its client companies. These are often small start-ups based around innovative ideas from university or private sector researchers. The SIP offers the following benefits:

1.    Research facilities

2.    UAEU academic and research support

3.    Administrative support

4.    Training programs

5.    Onsite services

6.    Innovation showcases

7.    Commercialization opportunities

8.    Business consultants, investors and innovation networks

In addition, the SIP organizes workshops for interested parties. These workshops include, but are not limited to, legal issues, business models, business plans, marketing propositions, financial management, networking, introducing new ventures and advisory sessions.

The SIP offers a range of programs to support innovators in launching their startups. These programs are:

The SIP Business Incubator Program

The UAEU SIP Business Incubator offers core premises, technology, administrative facilities and support services (work space, internet access, web hosting, legal assistance, etc.). It also offers one-year training programs including workshops, mentoring and networking services and an international trip to Silicon Valley. Seed capital can also be allocated based on the specific developmental requirements of different ventures. These resources are pooled to help in finalizing business models (6 months) and  launching a business (6 months).

The Germinate Program

1. The Discovery Program is dedicated to developing project management skills.

2. The Ideas Program helps identify key ideas that can lead to technical solutions.

3. The Prototype Program helps innovators produce their first prototype.

Market Awareness Program

The UAEU SIP Business Incubator Program organizes an annual competition called, ‘The UAEU challenge for innovation’ every autumn/fall. Faculty, experts, business leaders and entrepreneurs are involved in counseling and supervising students to prepare and present a business plan in a one week timeframe.

The winners enter the UAEU Incubation Program. They are also provided with the support required to enroll in international entrepreneurship competitions. Finally, they are offered the opportunity to visit an international partner for a specific period. The key to this program is to develop market awareness. Graduates are prepared to fine tune their business plans and to prepare to attract investors.

With the government placing emphasis on 2016 as the ‘Year of Innovation’, the UAEU Science and Innovation Park seeks to reinforce its position as one of the most forward-looking and entrepreneurial universities in the country.