Dubai Port World Sponsors Innovation Accelerator

Nov. 2, 2012 - PRLog -- In line with its commitment to drive innovation throughout its business, DP World, the global port operator, signed an agreement today with Innovation 360 to sponsor its development programme for young inventive entrepreneurs.

The programme, i360accelerator, which will launch in Dubai in November, is a new innovation accelerator and seed funding programme that pledges to take entrepreneurs from concept to investor-grade prototype in 90 days. Potential programme participants have applied through several live idea pitching competitions, as well as online.

As a corporate sponsor, DP World will help select participants for the November accelerator session, and will have the opportunity to invest in the resulting start up ideas. DP World’s sponsorship also includes committing the time and knowledge of several of its senior staff members to mentor and further educate the participating teams during the accelerator programme.

Commenting on the initiative, Mohammed Sharaf, Group CEO, DP World said:

“We believe Innovation is the key to long term growth and sustainability and we are committed to creating innovative cultures in the communities in which we operate.   This partnership reflects that commitment, and we hope the young and talented will be inspired to take advantage of this initiative and encourage them to focus on realising their potential and expanding their capabilities.”

Yousif Al Mutawa, Chief Information Officer, DP World added:

“This programme is in line with our values at DP World, where we believe innovation is the way forward; not only does it stimulate growth, but also increases efficiency and keeps us ahead of the industry.”

Kamal Hassan,President and CEO of Innovation 360 said:

“We are pleased that DP World has committed support to this important initiative.  DP World has a very successful track history and an intensive pool of talented executives who will be of considerable benefit to the i360accelerator teams.  We hope that this partnership will be a stepping stone to future initiatives.”