Sheraa Announces AED 500,000 Challenge For AgriTech And Livestock Health Innovation

The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa) has unveiled the sixth edition of the Access Sharjah Challenge (ASC), focusing on AgriTech and Live Health. This initiative aligns with Sharjah’s and the UAE’s ambition to top the Global Food Security Index by 2051. The AED 500,000 challenge invites startups worldwide with viable prototypes to apply for world-class mentoring and global expansion opportunities.

Applicants must submit their entries on Sheraa's website by September 5, 2024. The Department of Agriculture and Livestock and the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment have collaborated with Sheraa for this edition. Additionally, the initiative is supported by the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) and Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Real Estate.

To be shortlisted, applicants need to present practical solutions with ready-to-use models and commit to establishing their companies. The top 10 ideas will undergo intensive training to refine their concepts into viable projects. This process aims to support startups during their critical growth phase, offering innovative solutions that contribute to long-term economic and environmental sustainability.

Sara Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, emphasised ASC 2024's role in providing a platform for startups and entrepreneurs worldwide. She stated: "This year's challenge demonstrates Sheraa's commitment to establishing Sharjah as a leading regional and global hub in AgriTech and livestock health."

The AgriTech track invites innovators to present sustainable irrigation methods, desalination innovations, and other environmentally friendly practices. This track reflects Sheraa’s dedication to addressing water scarcity, a significant threat to regional and global security.

Dr. Eng. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, Chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock in Sharjah, highlighted ASC's focus on sustainable strategies for agriculture and livestock sectors. He said: "It focuses on developing sustainable strategies to advance the ecosystem, adapt to climate change, and enhance food security by implementing best practices, studies, and innovative technologies."

Livestock Health Track

The Livestock Health track offers opportunities for startups specialising in livestock health through monitoring systems, preventive technologies, innovative health solutions, and streamlined treatment processes. This track aims to enhance Sharjah’s biosecurity system while supporting sustainable development in livestock farming.

Winners will be selected by a jury panel and announced later. The AED 500,000 prize will be split evenly between winners of both tracks. Entrepreneurs will also receive mentorship, networking opportunities, tailored business support, extensive media coverage, solidifying Sheraa's commitment to sustainable development.

Sharjah’s Commitment

Sheraa introduces these two pioneering tracks aimed at fostering innovation in Sharjah's agricultural and livestock sectors. By leveraging modern technology in agriculture production and addressing water scarcity due to climate change and population growth, they aim to achieve self-sufficiency.

Sharjah has made significant efforts in adopting smart agricultural practices using modern technologies. For instance, research at Mleiha Farm's biotechnology laboratories led to developing the 'Sharjah-1' wheat strain. This strain is more climate-resilient, water-efficient by 30 percent less usage while being highly productive.

The ASC initiative aligns with Sharjah's vision of supporting the UAE's National Food Security Strategy 2051. It aims at positioning the country as a global leader in innovation-based food security while advancing sustainable development across economic, social, and environmental fronts.

With inputs from WAM