12 startups shortlisted for access Sharjah Challenge 2025

Introducing two thematic tracks

This year’s edition introduces two dedicated tracks: Future-Ready Skills, in collaboration with the Sharjah Private Education Authority, and Arabic in Early Childhood, in collaboration with the Sharjah Education Academy. Both tracks aim to advance Arabic language learning and equip students with the skills needed to thrive in the future job market.

Startups driving future-ready education

In the Future-Ready Skills track, the shortlisted startups are Edlytica, Evolve Careers, Certify Me, Peekapak, ProjoTech, and Skills Builder. These ventures offer a range of solutions designed to build practical, future-oriented skills in students.

Startups elevating Arabic in early childhood

The Arabic in Early Childhood track features Lamsa, Little Thinking Minds, Hodhud, eduTechnoz, arabee, and Jana Reading. These startups are dedicated to enhancing Arabic language acquisition through innovative, child-centric digital tools and platforms.

Innovation That Transcends Borders

Spanning both international and regional innovators, the 12 ventures present bold solutions such as personalized learning platforms, interactive digital content, and advanced skills-building technologies. Their diversity reflects the spirit of ASC, bridging global talent with Sharjah’s dynamic entrepreneurial ecosystem to co-create scalable solutions that redefine how knowledge is delivered and experienced.

Preparing for proof-of-concept pilots

The twelve selected startups will take part in a Startup Readiness Sprint—an intensive two-day programme designed to prepare them for successful proof-of-concept (PoC) collaborations. The sprint includes deep dives into Sharjah’s education ecosystem, pilot-focused pitching, and practical AMA (Ask Me Anything) simulations to ensure the startups are fully equipped for their upcoming pilots.

Pitch Day and PoC implementation phase

The programme will culminate in a Pitch Day on September 9, where all participating startups will present their solutions to a panel of strategic partners and education experts. Two startups—one from each track—will be selected to enter the PoC implementation phase, which will run from late September 2025 through January 2026.

Funding and strategic support

Each winning solution will receive a pilot contract worth AED 250,000 to support implementation and scale its impact. Additionally, the selected startups will gain access to valuable collaboration opportunities with key stakeholders in Sharjah’s education ecosystem.

ASC's continued global influence

Now in its seventh edition, the Access Sharjah Challenge (ASC) has evolved into a flagship global initiative led by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa). Designed to attract and empower startups worldwide, ASC offers a unique platform to pilot and scale innovative solutions addressing critical challenges—positioning Sharjah as a launchpad to the wider region.