AI Engineer & Startup Founder

Note: This ad is not for a job but for the opportunity to build a VC-backed startup!

We are looking for an experienced Data Scientist or AI Engineer who is ready to take the leap and become an entrepreneur. If you have years of expertise in building data-driven businesses, managing AI teams, or working as a consultant shaping the AI strategy of a firm and are looking to build a disruptive tech venture in the vibrant MENAP ecosystem, we would like to hear from you!

About You

As an AI / Data Science Lead joining our Residency, you will play an instrumental role as a Co-founder, overseeing all sides of the AI and data-driven aspects of the business, with a focus on strategy, implementation, and innovation. This requires that you be a:

• AI/Data Leader: Identify as a leader in AI or data with demonstrated experience building data-centric businesses, managing data processes, creating strategies to address unprecedented challenges, and possessing a network to build relevant partnerships.
• Passionate about AI: Have a deep interest in generative models, deep learning, and data analysis to help create intelligent and transformative AI applications.
• Technical Builder & Operator: Know how to run the operations of an AI/data business and are great at building relationships across markets and functions.
• Problem Solver: Are an exceptional problem solver with very strong analytical skills, capable of breaking down complex issues and bringing structure into data-driven business cases.
• Proven Leader: Deliver a track record of leading AI/data teams, projects, or companies, effectively motivating colleagues to achieve shared goals and navigate challenges.
• Entrepreneurial: Have an entrepreneurial spirit, grit, and drive that will enable you to build an impactful AI company.
• Have an Idea (Optional): Possess an idea that will solve a problem you’re passionate about, but understand the value of co-founders who share your vision and values.

The Antler Founder Residency

• The residency runs for 10 weeks, full-time, in-person in Dubai.
• During the residency, you will ideate, validate your ideas, and find your co-founder(s) from a cohort of 70-90 founders.
• You will have access to functional experts and dedicated coaches that will help you with your problem-market fit.
• At the end of the 10 weeks, you will present your business idea to the Antler Investment Committee. If accepted, you will receive a pre-seed investment of $180,000 for 11% equity, and join Antler’s portfolio.
• As an Antler portfolio company, you will receive personalised coaching from our partners and access our global network of advisors and talent to help you scale.

About Antler

We are a global early-stage venture capital firm investing in the defining companies of tomorrow to improve the world with groundbreaking technology. We are present in 30 locations worldwide, have supported over 8,000 founders through our platforms, invested in more than 1,200 startups with a total portfolio of $4.7bn.

Our platform brings together experienced and driven professionals from diverse backgrounds to build strong teams and launch their own companies. At Antler, we lower the barriers to entrepreneurship by giving you the necessary support to find the right co-founder and validate your idea, coached by internal and external advisors.

Antler Success Stories:

Some examples of successful companies that were built as a result of Antler’s residency, received pre-seed investment from Antler, and have gone on to raise substantial investments are as follows:

• Airalo: the world’s first eSIM subscription and top-up store
• Treyd: a buy-now-pay-later service for supplier invoices
• Two: complete B2B payment suite, making it easy to sell to online and offline business customers
• Evyon: planet-friendly battery energy storage system
• Glint Solar: software for identifying the best solar sites faster
• Modoyo: competitive gaming services focusing on inclusivity and community

We welcome first-time founders, serial entrepreneurs, and early-stage startups to Antler in MENAP. Apply now to stop dreaming and start building! We look forward to partnering with innovative leaders ready to shape the future with AI and data in the MENAP ecosystem.

Cohort starts: 7th April 2025

Location: Dubai