Emirates Development Bank (EDB) has launched the Future Founder Program 2026, a new initiative designed to help young people develop the entrepreneurial, leadership and business skills needed to succeed in the UAE’s evolving economy.
Running from July 6 to August 21, 2026, the seven-week summer program is open to students aged 17 to 21 from all nationalities. Participants will gain practical experience through workshops, business simulations, leadership sessions and masterclasses delivered by entrepreneurs and industry professionals.
Building Entrepreneurial Skills Through Practical Learning
The program focuses on developing real-world business capabilities, including idea generation, innovation, problem-solving, financial literacy and business model development. Students will also work through case studies and practical business scenarios that reflect how companies operate in competitive markets.
Rather than relying solely on classroom learning, the initiative aims to expose participants to the realities of entrepreneurship while helping them build confidence in leadership and decision-making.
Supporting the UAE’s Long-Term Economic Vision
The Future Founder Program forms part of Emirates Development Bank’s broader strategy to strengthen the UAE’s entrepreneurial ecosystem by investing in young talent and encouraging innovation from an early stage.
By providing mentorship, practical training and direct exposure to business environments, EDB aims to help develop a new generation of entrepreneurs capable of contributing to the country’s long-term economic diversification goals.
Why It Matters
Entrepreneurship education is becoming an increasingly important pillar of economic development across the Gulf region. Programs that introduce students to business creation, innovation and leadership at an early stage can help strengthen startup ecosystems, encourage private sector participation and prepare future founders for an increasingly competitive global economy.
