Global Startup Council
Fueling the Future of Innovation
The Startup Council is a strategic advisory body established to support the growth and direction of our startup and contribute to the wider startup ecosystem. Composed of experienced entrepreneurs, investors, operators, and ecosystem enablers, the council offers high-impact guidance on product development, go-to-market strategies, fundraising, and scaling.
Through mentorship, insight, and access to key networks, the Startup Council plays a critical role in helping us navigate early-stage challenges, make smarter decisions, and build a sustainable, high-growth company aligned with the needs of modern startups.
Key Objectives
- Advise on product-market fit, growth strategies, and business model validation
- Provide guidance on fundraising, investor relations, and pitch readiness
- Open doors to strategic partnerships, talent, and ecosystem opportunities
- Offer ongoing mentorship and accountability to the founding team
- Champion a founder-first, innovation-driven approach within the startup ecosystem

Advisory Board
The Advisory Board provides strategic oversight and expert guidance to the Startup Council, ensuring that its initiatives are aligned with the evolving needs of startups and the broader innovation ecosystem. Composed of accomplished leaders across venture capital, entrepreneurship, policy, academia, and startup support, the Advisory Board plays a key role in shaping the Council’s direction, expanding its reach, and enhancing its credibility.

Khalid Almansoori
Strategy & Technology Adviser, Director & CIO

Ahmad Almulla
Senior Digital Transformation Leader and Mentor

Arun Tewary
Strategy & Technology Adviser, Director & CIO

Jerry Luftman
Managing Director, & Professor, New York, US

Mark Johnson
International leader & Non-Executive Director

Dr. Mohammad Khaled
VP Strategic Transformation, Abu Dhabi University
Council Members

Khalid Almansoori
CEO, Finesse Global

Sushobhan Mukherjee
Co-Founder and CEO, Prime Infoserv LLP

Illyas Kooliyankal
Founder and CEO, CyberShelter

Mustafa Qurban
IT Consultant, King Fahad Military Medical

Abeer Al-Humaimeedy
Vice Dean Quality, KSU-CCIS

Mohammed Mahnashi
Advisor, Digital Economy Center