Sharjah Publishing Sustainability Fund Reveals Participants For 2025 Scale Track Programme

The Sharjah Publishing Sustainability Fund (Onshur) has revealed the participants for its 2025 "Scale" track. From 62 applicants, 13 publishing houses were chosen based on strict criteria. These included a history of publishing diverse works and a commitment to sustainable growth. The selected publishers will engage in a four-week intensive programme starting in May.

The Scale track cohort showcases significant diversity, with women constituting 60% and men 40% of the participants. Emiratis represent the largest group at 40%, followed by Egyptians and Syrians at 13% each. Additionally, Australians make up 6%, while Eritreans, Jordanians, Canadians, and Lebanese each account for 7% of the total.

Participating publishers include Ajyal, Sidra Publishing and Distribution, Kalaman for Distribution and Publishing, Ghaf Publications, Nabati Publishing, Dar Al Bayan Al Arabi, Dar Al Furat Publishing, Dar Al Fikr Al Jadeed, Shams Publishing, The Dream Work Collective, Shaheen Printing, Publishing and Distribution, Loaloa Publishing and Distribution, and Al Noor Publishing.

This upcoming track offers an interactive learning journey designed to provide practical tools for scaling operations both locally and internationally. The curriculum includes specialised training in business model development, digital marketing strategies, data management, and modern technologies to enhance reader engagement.

Networking opportunities with senior international publishers and experts are also part of the programme. This aims to help participants strengthen their presence in global markets while building robust publishing brands.

Evaluation Committee's Role

A distinguished evaluation committee was involved in selecting the participants. This group included cultural and publishing leaders such as Ahmed bin Rakkad Al Ameri, CEO of the Sharjah Book Authority. Their expertise ensured that only those with a strong potential for growth were chosen.

The initiative reflects Onshur’s commitment to fostering sustainable growth within the publishing industry by equipping publishers with essential skills for expansion. By focusing on diversity and innovation, the programme aims to create a lasting impact on both local and international stages.

With inputs from WAM