Eleven Emirati small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) are showcasing their innovations at Global Food Week 2026, held from October 6 to 8 at the Abu Dhabi National Exhibition Centre (Adnec). The event aims to promote the growth of local entrepreneurs within the food and agriculture sectors by providing a platform for exposure, networking, and collaboration.

Supported by the Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development, the participating SMEs operate across a range of fields including agricultural technology, bakery equipment and technology, baked goods, confectionery, and traditional Emirati cuisine. Over the course of the three-day event, these businesses have the opportunity to present their products, meet potential buyers and partners, and explore new commercial prospects.

In addition to product showcases, several Emirati entrepreneurs are conducting workshops to share insights from their business experiences with visitors and industry stakeholders. Mouza Obaid Al Nasri, Chief Executive Officer of Khalifa Fund, highlighted the significance of such engagement in facilitating direct connections between local enterprises and key players in the food industry. "Through this participation, we aim to enable Emirati enterprises to build commercial relationships, explore new opportunities and strengthen their access to markets," she said.

Khalifa Fund noted that the food sector offers a broad range of opportunities for SMEs, spanning agriculture, manufacturing, technology, distribution, and retail segments. During Global Food Week, the organization is set to formalize a partnership with the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority intended to enhance support for agricultural and food-related businesses.

The agreement will emphasize areas such as training, entrepreneurship development, investment facilitation, and knowledge sharing. It will also expand access for entrepreneurs and farmers to advisory services, financial resources, business incubators, and opportunities to develop and pilot new ideas.

Agricultural companies and innovators attending the event will have the chance to participate in proof-of-concept projects, field trials, and pilot programs, helping to validate their products or services before broader market introduction. The collaboration will support participants of various agricultural empowerment initiatives, including those affiliated with the Sheikh Mansour Bin Zayed Agricultural Excellence Award.