The 10th edition of Expand North Star, the world’s largest startup and investor event and part of GITEX GLOBAL, has opened with record participation, featuring more than 2,000 startups and 1,200 investors from over 100 countries. Brazil joins as the first official Country Partner, while Ecuador and Chile make their debut appearances.
Running from October 12 to 15, the event at Dubai Harbour aims to accelerate funding, deal flow, and collaboration across emerging AI and digital economies. With global venture capital investments reaching $368 billion in 2024, the show’s role in connecting entrepreneurs and investors continues to grow in global significance.
Brazil is showcasing over 50 of its most innovative startups through ApexBrasil. “Today, Brazil is home to one of the world’s largest startup ecosystems with more than 20,000 ventures,” said Tatiana Riera, COO of the Dubai Office of ApexBrasil. “Expand North Star is about co-creating the future between Brazil, the UAE, and the world.”
Ecuador is participating for the first time, with 22 companies presenting solutions in AI banking and medical technology. Ambassador Felipe Ribadeneira said Ecuador aims to strengthen its ties with the UAE through new tech partnerships, including a planned logistics corridor agreement to be signed at the World Government Summit in February.
Chile is also making its debut with 12 companies across mining, education, finance, and entertainment, complemented by the Chile-Dubai Innovation Summit to deepen economic cooperation and diversify exports.
More than $1.1 trillion in assets under management is represented by investors attending GITEX GLOBAL and Expand North Star this year. Dr. Jorg Goschin, CEO of KFW Capital, said the UAE’s innovation drive makes it a natural partner for European investment expansion. “When investors have transparency and clear exit pathways, they invest. The UAE offers both.”
Dubai World Trade Centre, organiser of GITEX GLOBAL and Expand North Star, signed several international agreements on opening day with Presight, 28 Digital, ApexBrasil, and the Chamber of Commerce and Industry of Serbia.
