FRANCHISE

Franchise DMZ’s model in your region.

Launch a world-class startup hub with DMZ’s franchise model—built on a proven playbook.

Questions? Let’s Talk.

A brand entrepreneurs trust.

When you franchise with DMZ, you gain a trusted model, expert support and a global reputation for excellence.

A proven playbook

Built on 15 years of experience in building thriving entrepreneurial hubs.

Global recognition

Align with a leading name in startup incubation and acceleration.

Tailored for your region

Custom programs and strategies to meet your local goals.

End-to-end support

Strategic guidance from setup to full launch.

Who’s building with DMZ – and winning.

Launching a startup hub takes more than ambition. With DMZ, you’ll get access to proven programs and a global network that founders believe in—giving your region instant credibility and real momentum.

Questions? Let’s Talk.
Universities

Bring a world-leading entrepreneurship brand to campus—and give students, researchers and founders a launchpad for real-world success.

Toronto Metropolitan University campus building representing DMZ’s partnership with TMU to bring world-class entrepreneurship programs to students and researchers.
Local governments

Launch a DMZ-backed innovation hub that drives job creation, attracts startups and strengthens your economy.

Historic city hall building symbolizing DMZ’s collaboration with local governments to launch innovation hubs that drive economic growth and startup creation.
Business support organizations

Leverage DMZ’s proven model to deliver founder-focused programs that accelerate growth, attract investment and energize your local startup ecosystem.

Group of women founders and program leaders working together, representing DMZ’s support for business organizations accelerating local startup growth.

DMZ provided us with a blueprint for startup success. By leveraging their tried and true playbook, we equip startups in the Vietnamese ecosystem with tools to succeed.

Case Studies & Impact Reports

Read about our franchise locations.

See how organizations around the globe are leveraging our playbook for real results.

Why franchise with DMZ?

Build a leading entrepreneurship program without starting from scratch or navigating the journey alone.
 With DMZ, you’ll launch faster, reduce risk and create lasting impact in your region.

Questions? Let’s Talk.

Our team.

Meet the faces that will help bring the DMZ playbook to your region – think of us as your co-pilots.

Abdullah Snobar

Executive Director, DMZ and CEO, DMZ Ventures

Abdullah Snobar is the Executive Director of DMZ and CEO of DMZ Ventures. Through its world-leading Incubator, Skills Academy and investment fund, DMZ empowers founders to scale high-impact ventures, helps students develop entrepreneurial mindsets and equips professionals to thrive in today’s fast-moving economy.

‍

Committed to leveling the playing field for all entrepreneurs, Abdullah has championed several initiatives for underserved founders designed to meet them where they are. Through DMZ’s Black Innovation Programs, Women Innovation Programs and catered streams for Indigenous founders, DMZ offers curated support, ensuring everyone has a fair shot at success.

‍

Under Abdullah’s leadership, the global startup ecosystem has significantly expanded its impact by establishing global hubs across North America, Latin America, Africa and Asia; broadening its support to serve upskilling professionals in tech and business foundations; and launching DMZ Ventures’ investment fund for pre-seed and seed-stage tech startups.

‍

Beyond his work at DMZ, Abdullah serves on the Board of Directors for the Rideau Hall Foundation, the Power Plant Contemporary Art Gallery, the Indigenous Prosperity Foundation, SPEC Labs and the Elevate Advisory Board. Recognized globally and nationally for his leadership in business and innovation, Abdullah is a recipient of the King Charles III Coronation Medal, named one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 and serves as a member of the Forbes Tech Council.  He has previously served as a Board Director for the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) and the Ontario Trillium Foundation and held roles with the Canadian Armed Forces, Fairmont Hotels and Marriott Hotels & Resorts.

‍

Abdullah holds an ICD.D designation from the Institute of Corporate Directors and MBA and BComm degrees from Toronto Metropolitan University.

‍

Favourite travel destination?

Havana.

‍

How do you relax?

Listen to Andrea Bocelli or Drake.

‍

What is your favourite movie of all time?

The Godfather.

‍

What is one item you never leave your house without?

A positive mindset.

‍

Best part about working at the DMZ?

The people and being in the best city in the world.

Alix Ali-Dib

Senior Manager, Global Programs

As Sr. Manager of Global Programs, Alix oversees operations across 11 locations, fostering collaboration and efficiency within a diverse global network. With a focus on advisory services and business development, Alix works alongside governments, universities, and NGOs to design innovative programs that drive meaningful impact.
‍

Committed to helping startups scale globally, Alix connects businesses with the resources, mentorship, and ecosystems needed to thrive. By advancing strategic partnerships and global initiatives, Alix empowers organizations to navigate complex challenges and achieve sustainable growth.
‍

Outside of work, Alix is actively involved with a Lebanese dog rescue group where she met the love of her life Albi, a blind miniature poodle. Alix is also an avid traveler, with her favourite destinations being Greece and Morocco.

Most used app?

Uber

‍

What would your dream holiday be?

Giraffe Manor in Kenya

‍

What’s the first thing you’d buy if you won a million dollars?

A week at Giraffe Manor :)

‍

What's your true passion?

The environment and ecological restoration!

‍

Pick two celebrities to be your parents.

Posh and Becks

‍

‍

Mostafa Abdelmeguid

Special Projects Manager, Global Programs

As the Special Programs Manager, Mostafa manages and oversees special programs related to the priorities of the DMZ, from the development to the implementation stage.

‍

Mostafa likes to label himself as a jack of all trades / loopholes finder. Mostafa’s career spans several industries. He started off as a humanitarian worker for UN WFP and ICRC and moved to the cement industry. He then worked in heritage real estate before settling in the entrepreneurship and innovation sector.

‍

In his last role as Partners Success Manager for Plug and Play Egypt, Mostafa orchestrated a 5 countries wide Sustainability and GreenTech hackathon for PepsiCo Middle East covering Egypt, Jordan, Lebanon, Saudi Arabia and The United Arab Emirates. He was also supporting accelerated startups in Business Development.

‍

Mostafa received the Chevening award to do his masters in Creative Cultural Entrepreneurship at Goldsmith’s College, University of London in 2017-2018 and he is passionate about improving organizations and facilitating a sense of community.

‍

Favourite movie/TV show?

Gladiator, Dark Knight trilogy

‍

How do you relax?

Washing the dishes, playing with my daughter, and snacking

‍

Describe your desk space

Chaos

‍

What’s one thing people know you best for?

I love to connect people

‍

Favourite restaurant?

Dishoom in London, UK