Global Startup Momentum Builds at Expand North Star 2025

As we gear up for the landmark 10th edition of Expand North Star – the world’s largest event for startups and investors – the 2025 showcase promises to be our boldest and most global yet.

From record-breaking country delegations to some of the most exciting names in tech and AI, here’s a preview of what’s powering this year’s global innovation engine:

• Brazil joins as Country Partner for the 10th anniversary edition of Expand North Star, with a delegation of 55+ startups and innovation hubs.
• IGNITE National Incubation Fund Pakistan to showcase 20+ startups at the 2025 event.
• 42 Abu Dhabi makes its YouthX debut with a delegation of emerging tech startups.
• Over 10 startups from UAE University to take part in this year’s edition.
• Canada Startup Association brings 20 cutting-edge startups to Expand North Star 2025.
• MEDEPC India returns for a second year with more than 20 innovative startups.
• The Netherlands expands its presence with a larger pavilion and 20 startups confirmed.
• IPSD Palestine marks its fourth consecutive year with 20 startups joining the showcase.
• Italy's ITA unveils one of the largest pavilions yet, with 25 standout startups set to exhibit.
• Kerala Startup Mission ramps up with a strong lineup of 30 startups in 2025.

Headline Speakers:

Justin Grooms, President of USD 14B commerce platform Bolt, to headline our main stage and unpack the future of global transactions.

Mati Staniszewski, Co-Founder of ElevenLabs, explores the next frontier of AI-generated content.

Eric Piscini, CEO of Hashgraph, brings fresh insight into decentralised enterprise technology.

Blockchain & Fintech on the Rise

LunaPR, the global blockchain PR firm, will spotlight 10 portfolio companies redefining the space.

Hall 1 will transform into a fintech and blockchain innovation zone, featuring 38 disruptive startups pushing the boundaries of Web3, digital payments, and more.

Join us at Dubai Harbour this October as Expand North Star celebrates a decade of global startup success, scale-up growth, and boundary-breaking innovation.