In 2018 Abu Dhabi Government launched Ghadan 21, a three-year incubator program that invests in innovation, community, and businesses. Among the 50 initiatives launched in 2019 is Ma'an, an authority that was established with the aim of bringing together the government, the private sector and civil society to support a culture of social contribution and participation.
Ma'an enables not-for-profit associations or foundations and social enterprises to contribute to the development of strong, active and connected communities. Among its initiatives to ensure inclusion of all, are those listed below which target people of determination (persons with disabilities) and indirectly impact their involvement in the cultural sector.
* 'ATMAH' program aims to increase employment opportunities for people of determination (persons with disabilities) in Abu Dhabi, including employment in the cultural and creative sectors.
* An interactive platform enables users to connect, collaborate and work for the inclusion of people of determination (persons with disabilities) into their local communities. It also serves as an online umbrella for all things related to inclusion, therefore the community can collaborate to integrate people of determination (persons with disabilities) into everyday activities and events. Cultural initiatives aimed at people of determination (persons with disabilities) are among those implemented through the platform.
* Panel discussions with government and private sector representatives are hosted to discuss collaboration opportunities to improve the lives of people of determination (persons with disabilities).
Ma'an launched a social incubator program to foster innovative solutions for social challenges and to make a positive and sustainable social impact. The first cycle of the program focused on solutions for people of determination (persons with disabilities). The program is open to social entrepreneurs everywhere.
In 2019, 10 teams were declared winners through this initiative and were supported to develop their social businesses.