Dubai Future Accelerators (DFA) Program 2020 – “Cohort 7” Review
23th of April 2020
Heliatek was selected out of more than 500 applicants for the participation of the 2020 Dubai Future Accelerators program “Cohort 7”, which took place from January to April 2020. The 9 weeks program connected top-level government institutions with international companies in various future technologies, to co-create solutions to challenges imposed by government entities. During the program, Heliatek worked closely with its program partner DEWA (Dubai Electricity and Water Authority) to evaluate the technology and market potential for Heliatek’s organic solar films. Heliatek’s local DFA team comprised of colleagues from management, business development and product development and was led by Spyridon Christaras, who said: “The program has been an extremely valuable for all of us. It helped Heliatek to connect with the relevant authorities here in Dubai, to understand the business environment, the regulatory background and furthermore the culture of this wonderful country and region.”
These are key achievements of the program:
- Raised awareness within DEWA of Heliatek’s organic PV technology and of the market potential in Dubai
- Established direct contact with regulatory authorities to clarify requirements for applications
- Understanding the Dubai business environment and sharpening of the market strategy
Guido van Tartwijk, CEO of Heliatek:
“Our first participation in the DFA program was a full success for Heliatek. Dubai is a key strategic market for Heliatek’s organic solar films and we have already established a strong local partnership with Etihad ESCO. The program helped us further to understand the local requirements of this market to become successful. With our program partner DEWA, we had an intensive and valuable exchange with important learnings on both sides. All our expectations were exceeded and we would like to thank the Dubai Future Foundation as the host, all participants and supporters for their engagement. The commissioning of our first OPV pilot at the end of the program was the best finish we could have hoped for.”
Saeed Al Falasi, Executive Director of Future Platforms at Dubai Future Foundation:
“The growth and success that we have witnessed at DFA’s 7th Cohort has been outstanding, and stands as a proof that DFA continues to attract the most innovative startups and talents from around the world with the aim of addressing the most pressing challenges imposed by government entities, further positing the city as a hub for innovation and technology.”
He added: “We at the Dubai Future Foundation aim to realize our leadership’s vision for the future and view technology, innovation and foresight as a means to address global challenges. Through the program, and with support from innovative tech startups such as Heliatek, we continue to accelerate the development of the country and its key strategic sectors. We are looking forward to seeing the potential development and positive impact resulting from the collaboration between Heliatek and DEWA, and wish them all the best in their journey together."
