Athar+ (Athar Plus), Abu Dhabi’s first purpose-driven hub dedicated to accelerating social impact, has graduated its inaugural cohort of social entrepreneurs.

Athar+ is was established as a strategic hub under the “From the Community to the Community” initiative by the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, under the Department of Community Development Abu Dhabi (DCD), in 2025.

It is funded through community contributions and is designed to strengthen Abu Dhabi’s social impact ecosystem.

The hub empowers social entrepreneurs to develop community-focused solutions that address social priorities, creating a positive impact not just on the community, but also advancing the economy of Abu Dhabi.

In recognition of these entrepreneurs, Athar+ celebrated the graduation of 27 social entrepreneur during the Athar+ Social Impact Summit held at Madar_39, in attendance of His Excellency Dr Mugheer Khamis Al Khaili, Secretary-General of Erth Zayed Philanthropies, His Excellency Abdulla Humaid Al Ameri, Director General of the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, His Excellency Salem AlShamsi, Executive Director of Social Incubation and Contracting at the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, alongside other senior officials, investors and esteemed partners.

H.E. Abdulla Humaid Al Ameri, Director General of the Authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an, said, “We are delighted to celebrate the graduation of the impact makers who have dedicated their time and effort to enhancing the quality of life for families and communities across Abu Dhabi.

Through Athar+, we remain committed to supporting social enterprises and non-profits, equipping them with the tools, resources and partnerships needed to scale their missions, deepen their impact, and contribute to a thriving social impact ecosystem in the capital.

This aligns with the authority of Social Contribution – Ma’an’s mission in driving community engagement and strengthening Abu Dhabi’s position as a regional leader in social entrepreneurship.”

This achievement is underscored by the strong engagement and support of community members, as well as the ongoing financial and in-kind contributions from the authority’s partners, including Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank (ADCB), Modon Holding, Majra-National CSR Fund, Mubadala Investment Company, and others.

Their collective commitment has played a vital role in enabling the delivery of impactful programs, empowering social enterprises and nonprofits, and advancing solutions that address Abu Dhabi’s social development priorities.