Sheraa Aims To Empower Over 1,000 Entrepreneurs By 2030 Through Innovative Initiatives

The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre, known as Sheraa, is committed to supporting over 1,000 entrepreneurs by 2030. This goal aligns with the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr. Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi and the directives of H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi. They aim to foster innovation and competitiveness in Sharjah's entrepreneurial landscape.

Since its establishment, Sheraa has backed more than 450 startups, generating over US$370 million in revenue and attracting nearly US$300 million in capital. These efforts have led to the creation of over 2,600 jobs, underscoring Sheraa's role in enhancing Sharjah's reputation as a hub for innovation.

Sheraa offers an integrated accelerator programme through the Sharjah Startup Studio. This initiative provides entrepreneurs with specialised consulting, funding opportunities, and digital tools worth over AED3 million. Over four months, participants receive intensive training that includes practical experience and mentorship.

The centre also organises the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival, which has become a significant platform for entrepreneurs since its inception in 2017. The festival attracts global visitors and features sessions on innovation trends. Its ninth edition is scheduled for 31st January to 1st February.

Sheraa's Impact Makers Fellowship focuses on empowering female leaders and entrepreneurs by providing resources, mentorship, and support networks. Women-led companies make up 51% of Sheraa's incubated projects, surpassing global averages and highlighting Sharjah's commitment to gender equality in entrepreneurship.

The "Sharjah Gateway Challenge" is another initiative aimed at integrating startups with key sectors like education and technology. It encourages innovative solutions to sector-specific challenges while strengthening Sharjah’s position as a regional innovation hub.

Educational Initiatives and Investment Opportunities

Sheraa’s "Entrepreneurship Dojo" programme supports young entrepreneurs in transforming ideas into scalable projects. Conducted at the American University of Sharjah, it involves three phases: problem validation, MVP development, and market launch strategies. Over three years, it has benefited more than 200 students from 21 UAE universities.

Sheraa Investment Marina connects startups with investors through tailored meetings. This platform aims to boost growth and create sustainable investment opportunities for regional expansion, thereby stimulating entrepreneurial financing across the UAE.

Sarah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Executive Director of Sheraa, stated: "At Sheraa, we believe that building a knowledge-based economy begins with empowering people... We are working to develop an integrated system that provides support at various stages of an entrepreneur's journey."

Sheraa continues to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of entrepreneurship in the UAE by offering comprehensive programmes that support talent and innovation. Through these initiatives, Sheraa remains dedicated to transforming ideas into impactful projects both locally and globally.

With inputs from WAM