Dar Ventures has entered into a partnership with global innovation platform Plug and Play to take its DarE startup programme into a new phase. The expanded programme will support early-stage technology companies with industry expertise, mentorship, investment connections and access to international markets.
The initiative will focus on startups developing technology for architecture, engineering, construction and the wider built environment. It will also cover areas such as artificial intelligence (AI), Internet of Things (IoT), smart cities, infrastructure and sustainability.
The partnership gives DarE access to Plug and Play’s global network of startups, investors and corporate partners. This can provide technology companies with important connections to customers, industry specialists and potential sources of capital.
DarE Expands Its Support for Startups
DarE will operate as a 12-week hybrid programme for companies from pre-seed to pre-Series A stages. Applicants must have a minimum viable product (MVP) or a market-ready product.
The programme will primarily target startups across Europe, the Middle East and Africa, while remaining open to companies globally. Selected startups will receive expert support, one-on-one mentorship and direct engagement with industry players. They will also gain curated access to investors, corporate partners and international markets.
“DarE has always been about providing the right platform for entrepreneurs to thrive,” Nader Aboushadi, co-founder of Dar Ventures, said in a statement.
He said the partnership with Plug and Play would allow Dar Ventures to identify exceptional founders and give them access to the expertise and markets, as well as Dar Ventures projects and capital, needed to grow.
DarE was launched in 2023 as an incubator for AEC technology startups in the Middle East and North Africa. Since then, Dar Ventures says it has supported 32 startups across four cohorts. The original six-month programme also offered selected startups eligibility for up to $50,000 in equity-free funding.
Global Network Opens New Opportunities
Plug and Play will bring its international network to the next phase of DarE. The platform has more than 60 offices and works with 550 corporate and government partners across more than 25 industries. It has also accelerated more than 10,000 startups since 2012.
The partnership will broaden DarE beyond its original MENA focus and create a wider platform for startups to develop commercial relationships and enter new markets.
Dar Ventures will also establish a global alumni community for participating startups. The network will allow founders to remain connected after completing the programme and create opportunities for commercial partnerships, knowledge exchange, investment and cross-market expansion.
Karima El Hakim, Partner, Africa at Plug and Play, said the company was proud to support the next chapter of DarE. She said Plug and Play would bring its global innovation, venture and corporate ecosystem to the programme to connect founders with industry, accelerate commercial adoption and support technologies shaping the built environment.
