iACCEL Gulf Business Incubator (iACCEL GBI) has signed an MoU with the Toronto Business Development Centre (TBDC) to create a cross-border framework supporting high-potential startups in expanding between the UAE and Canada.

Saudi Arabia has launched a new platform spotlighting innovation in the events industry. Event Tech Tank is designed as a launchpad for startups, connecting entrepreneurs with investors and venture capital funds to turn promising ideas into viable projects.

French AI startup Mistral is reportedly in advanced discussions with investors, including Abu Dhabi’s MGX, to raise $1bn at a $10bn valuation. The funding would nearly double Mistral’s worth from last year.

Sharjah Startup Studio (S3), the flagship programme by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), has opened applications for its next cohort. The four-month cycle will begin in October 2025, with 20 startups selected from across the UAE.

Abu Dhabi-based startup Ovasave which focuses on addressing women’s health needs has raised $1.2m in pre-seed funding to scale its digital platform for fertility and hormonal health.

Saudi e-commerce fulfilment platform Salasa has secured $30m in Series B funding to accelerate its transformation into a technology-first logistics provider and expand its cross-border operations.

UAE-based Creators HQ has announced a long-term partnership with Snapchat to support and grow the region’s creator ecosystem. The collaboration aims to empower digital talent across the GCC and beyond through a year-round programme of training and talks.