ADTCA launches platform for Emirati entrepreneurs

The four-stage competition starts off with a free one-day workshop

Rowad Al Seyaha, a new initiative of Abu Dhabi Tourism and Culture Authority, TCA Abu Dhabi, is set to launch this month to offer Emirati entrepreneurs, both experienced and aspiring, the chance to develop their ideas for potential business start-ups.

A first of its kind in the capital for the leisure market, the competition, which focuses on developing creative leisure business ideas in Abu Dhabi, has gained support from a number of government entities including The Khalifa Fund, Abu Dhabi Municipality, Department of Economic Development and the Environment Agency Abu Dhabi — who will be offering guidance to the winning projects.

The four-stage competition starts off with a free one-day workshop, on December 14 at the St Regis Abu Dhabi, which encompasses a question-andanswer session with senior government officials and group workshops, where participants will be given advice on how to think creatively and develop business ideas. Judges will shortlist the most outstanding project ideas and move them to the next stage.

Over the following six weeks, shortlisted participants will have the chance to take part in a complimentary coaching programme where they will develop their project idea in to a tangible product, and submit their final business plans by Monday January 25.

“This initiative has been launched to help our home grown entrepreneurs develop their ideas into successful business ventures ... and benefit the emirate,” Sultan Al Daheri, Acting Executive Director, Tourism, TCA Abu Dhabi, said.