No. Explore & Build supports participants who are still choosing a problem, as well as those with an idea or existing business. Validate & Grow is intended for participants who already have an idea, early validation, an offer or a first product.
No. A technical background is not required. Sessions cover practical ways to test products, services and business improvements, including digital and AI tools where useful.
Yes. Explore & Build includes a pathway for participants who want to improve customer experience, sales or operations, introduce a new offer, or use digital tools more effectively.
Explore & Build runs from 6 September to 16 October 2026. Validate & Grow starts on 2 November 2026 and runs for six weeks. Exact session dates and times will be shared with each cohort.
The programme includes three scheduled touchpoints each week, plus independent time for customer conversations, experiments and weekly work. Exact session times will be shared before the cohort begins.
The Academy uses a hybrid format, with in-person sessions in Dubai and selected online activity. Participants must be able to attend the required in-person sessions.
Your output depends on your starting point. You should leave with clearer problem and customer evidence, a prioritised segment and UAE buying-process view, a tested offer or customer experience, pricing and economics evidence, channel and retention signals, and a practical 90-day plan. You will also build an evidence-led story and a stage-appropriate customer, partner, procurement, funding or programme ask.
No. The DFHQ Entrepreneur Academy is free for accepted participants.
Both individuals and teams can participate. Follow the attendance and submission guidance provided in your cohort invitation.