UAE based MANTRA, a layer 1 blockchain purpose-built for tokenized real-world assets (RWAs) has launched RWAccelerator – a start-up accelerator program designed to empower builders and startups with investment capital, mentors, dedicated AI support supported by Google Cloud.

The RWAccelerator program will focus on projects with a strong interest in the tokenization of real-world assets, across real estate, financial products and alternative assets.

The World Economic Forum projecting that by 2027, 10% of the world’s GDP – approximately $10 trillion – will be stored on blockchain networks, with Real World Assets (RWAs) playing a significant role in the transformation.

Applicants to the RWAccelerator will have the choice of three themed tracks; infrastructure, tokenization and DeFi. Selected projects will receive support from the Google for Startups Cloud program that provides access to Google Cloud resources including cloud credits, technical support and workshops led by Google engineers.

“This is a powerful opportunity for startups to harness cutting-edge technology and gain access to resources and mentorship,” said John Patrick Mullin, CEO of MANTRA. “With support from Google Cloud, this RWAccelerator will allow startups to reach new heights and significantly contribute to the wider Web3 community.”

Richard Widdman said, “We’re excited to collaborate with MANTRA to support the next wave of innovative Web3 startups focused on tokenizing real-world assets. By providing access to Google Cloud’s infrastructure and expertise, we aim to create an environment where these startups can truly thrive, experiment, and push the boundaries of what’s possible in the Web3 space.”

Applications for the first intake to the RWAccelerator will be accepted starting today through March 20, 2025.

The announcement comes as Mantra Finance secures Dubai VARA VASP license for DeFi.

Google announced that it has updated the cryptocurrencies and related products policy to clarify the scope and requirements for the advertisement of complex speculative financial products specifically in UAE. The company is allowing regulated crypto exchange and wallets to target UAE customers.

As per Google, starting February 26, 2025, advertisers offering cryptocurrency exchanges and software wallets targeting the United Arab Emirates may advertise those products and services when they meet the following requirements and are certified by Google.

The requirements are that cryptocurrency exchanges and crypto wallets targeting UAE users will need to be licensed by either the Financial Services Regulatory Authority (FSRA) out of ADGM in Abu Dhabi, Dubai’s Virtual Asset Regulatory Authority (VARA), or the Dubai Financial Services Authority (DFSA) out of DIFC. It adds that any other local legal requirements must also be complied with.

Interestingly crypto exchanges or crypto wallets license out of RAK DAO were not mentioned.

In the announcement Google notes, “As a reminder, we expect all advertisers to comply with the local laws for any area that their ads target. This policy will apply globally to all accounts that advertise these financial products.”

If advertisers violate the policy their accounts will be suspended without prior warning. A warning will be issued, at least 7 days, before any suspension of account.

This means that crypto exchanges such as Binance, OKX, CoinMENA, BitOasis, Crypto.com, M2 and others will be able to start advertising campaigns on Google targeting the UAE users. It also means that crypto wallets such as HexTrust, BackPack, Liminal, Komainu and others will also be able to.