10 Reasons to be Part of Expand North Star 2025 in Dubai
From 12–15 October, Dubai Harbour will stage the 10th anniversary edition of Expand North Star, the world’s largest event for startups and investors. Organised by Dubai World Trade Centre and hosted by Dubai Chamber of Digital Economy, this milestone year promises to be the biggest and most ambitious to date.
Last year’s edition connected more than 1,800 startups with 1,200 investors from over 100 countries, underlining the event’s role as a global gateway to funding, new markets, and impactful partnerships.
- Celebrate a Decade of Innovation
This year’s 10th anniversary edition is a chance to be part of the world’s largest gathering of startups and investors at a pivotal moment for the digital economy. The 2024 edition drew over 70,000 attendees and welcomed the largest European presence to date, with 350 startups participating. The 2025 programme offers an unrivalled platform for ambitious founders, investors, and innovators ready to shape the future.
- Gain Insights on Scaling Globally
Ambitious founders can hear directly from pioneers who have successfully expanded across continents – last year, Expand North Star attracted 65 unicorns with a combined value of US$400 billion. Practical sessions provide strategies on how to overcome barriers to growth, attract international investment, and accelerate expansion into competitive global markets.
- Compete for US$200,000 in Funding
The Supernova Challenge returns as the world’s largest startup pitch competition, with a prize pool of US$ 200,000. Open to high-impact startups from around the globe, it offers a platform to pitch to top investors and secure funding that could transform the trajectory of a business.
- Explore Five New Features
This year introduces ScaleX, spotlighting 50 of the world’s fastest-growing scale-ups; the Consumer Tech Zone, dedicated to AR/VR, health tech, and connected devices; North Star Green Impact, focused on climate and sustainability solutions; the Deeptech MEA Summit, driving breakthroughs in AI, quantum computing, and robotics; and the Digital Assets Forum, addressing the future of finance. Together, these additions expand the event’s scope and relevance for European innovators.
- Learn from 350+ Global Speakers
The 10th anniversary programme features an exceptional line-up of thought leaders, entrepreneurs, and investors sharing their expertise on emerging technologies and future markets. With over 350 speakers across multiple stages last year, visitors will gain valuable access to insights shaping the next decade of digital transformation.
- Access 1,200+ Investors from 100 Countries
Expand North Star is a magnet for global investment, drawing venture capital firms, angel investors, family offices, and institutional backers. Last year’s edition featured 1,200 investors managing over US$1 trillion in assets and generated 13,000 pre-arranged meetings as part of the Investor Programme, creating exciting opportunities for startups to pitch to decision-makers who are actively seeking their next investment.
- Experience Innovation First-Hand
From artificial intelligence and robotics to consumer technology and green solutions, the exhibition floor is packed with startups pushing the boundaries of innovation. Last year’s event featured 543 Series A+ startups and 400 award-winning AI ventures, providing visitors with a glimpse of the products and services that are set to transform tomorrow.
- Accelerate with Corporate Partnerships
Expand North Star connects founders with a wide network of accelerators, corporates, and ecosystem partners offering mentorship, resources, and strategic guidance. The Corporate Arena provides a dedicated platform for forging high-impact collaborations with enterprise leaders and investors.
- Discover Dubai’s Strategic Advantage
Dubai offers world-class infrastructure, pro-innovation policies, and access to markets across the Middle East, Africa, and South Asia. Ranked as the #1 global destination for Greenfield FDI projects for four consecutive years, the city provides startups and investors with an unrivalled platform for international expansion.
- Build Relationships Beyond the Sessions
Networking extends well past the main programme, with North Star by Night providing access to curated receptions, private mixers, and high-energy socials that bring together global startup leaders in unforgettable settings. These informal gatherings help to ensure that connections forged at the event translate into lasting partnerships, collaborations, and business growth.
Visit expandnorthstar.com today to secure your place at this unmissable event!
