The Hub71 Blueprint – Unlocking Startup Success in the UAE, with Bilal Javaid
In this engaging episode of FinTalk, our Co-Founder and CEO, Ivan Jesus, sits down with Bilal Javaid, finance lead at Hub71, Abu Dhabi’s Global Tech Ecosystem, to explore how the UAE’s leading innovation ecosystem is shaping the future of startups. With over 300 startups under its wing, Hub71 has become a powerhouse of support, offering mentorship, funding access, and partnerships that enable businesses to thrive.
Bilal shares his inspiring journey, from a chartered accountancy background to leading the finance function at Hub71, and provides unique insights into what startups need to succeed in today’s competitive landscape. From fostering financial governance to building scalable business models, this episode offers a masterclass in startup growth.
Key Highlights
Fostering an Innovation Ecosystem
Hub71 serves as a launchpad for startups in the UAE, aligning with the nation’s vision of economic diversification through technology. Bilal explains how Hub71 supports startups not just with funding but with tailored mentorship programmes, access to VCs, and strategic partnerships with corporates and government entities. Startups at Hub71 benefit from an open, collaborative environment designed to break down barriers, encourage innovation, and enable founders to tap into a vibrant community of over 300 businesses.
Financial Governance: The Foundation for Success
One of the episode’s key takeaways is the importance of financial governance. Bilal highlights how many startups fail to prioritise finance in the early stages, treating it as a back-office function rather than a strategic pillar. This can lead to poor cash flow management, lack of investor trust, and ultimately, stunted growth. At Hub71, startups are encouraged to treat finance as a core business partner. Through mentorship programmes and partnerships with top-tier firms, founders learn to build governance frameworks, adopt financial tools, and align their financial strategies with their long-term goals.
Success Stories from Hub71
Bilal shares inspiring examples of startups that have flourished with Hub71’s support. From a carbon exchange startup that became the first ADGM-regulated platform for carbon credits to fintech innovators gaining global recognition, these success stories highlight the power of combining financial discipline with a bold vision.
Key Lessons for Startups
Throughout the episode, Bilal offers valuable advice for founders:
• Align Finance with Strategy: Financial planning should go beyond spreadsheets to reflect a company’s vision, KPIs, and long-term sustainability.
• Prioritise Governance Early: Strong governance builds credibility with investors and ensures financial resilience during growth phases.
• Leverage Communities and Mentorship: Startups thrive when founders collaborate, share ideas, and learn from experienced mentors.
• Use the Right Tools: Implementing scalable financial systems from the start can prevent costly corrections later.
The Finalytics Perspective
During the conversation, Ivan highlighted how Finalytics is helping startups optimise their financial operations through a cost-efficient Finance-as-a-Service model. By offering CFO-level services at the cost of one employee, Finalytics ensures startups can focus on growth while maintaining financial clarity and discipline.
Practical Takeaways for Founders
• Scalable Systems: Implement ERP and automation tools tailored to your business size.
• Monthly Financial Reporting: Regularly analyse key metrics, including revenue trends, gross profit, and cost drivers.
• Community Engagement: Learn from peers and tap into resources within your ecosystem.
• Governance First: Focus on financial governance from day one to build trust and attract funding.
Tune In Now!
This episode with Bilal Javaid offers a wealth of insights for startup founders, finance professionals, and business leaders. Learn how to foster innovation, build financial governance, and position your business for sustainable success.
Listen to the podcast on Spotify and YouTube, and stay tuned for more expert discussions on the latest trends in finance.
