Sheraa aims to support more than 1,000 entrepreneurs by 2030

At a time of accelerating global economic transformations, the UAE stands out as an inspiring model for building an economy based on knowledge and innovation. Inspired by the vision of His Highness Sheikh Dr Sultan bin Mohammed Al Qasimi, Supreme Council Member and Ruler of Sharjah, to cultivate individuals capable of innovation and competitiveness, and by the directives of Her Highness Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa), who believes that empowering youth and entrepreneurship are two pillars of the emirate's future, the centre, founded in 2016, continues to play its vital role as a key driver of growth and an enabler of entrepreneurs through an integrated system of programmes and initiatives that support talent and transform ideas into sustainable projects with a real impact and scalability locally and globally.

Sheraa's efforts are in line with the " “The Emirates: The Startup Capital of the World” campaign, launched by His Highness Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE and Ruler of Dubai, to consolidate the UAE's position as a global destination for entrepreneurship and provide all possible support to Emirati youth to benefit from the unique economic environment. This includes training and nurturing 10,000 Emirati entrepreneurs, both male and female, and creating 30,000 job opportunities.

Through its pioneering programmes, Sheraa contributes to translating these goals into a tangible reality by empowering entrepreneurs and building an entrepreneurial ecosystem that embraces innovative ideas and drives them toward growth and global impact. Since its inception, the centre has supported more than 450 startups, generating combined revenues exceeding USD 370 million, attracting nearly USD 300 million in capital, and creating more than 2,600 job opportunities. These figures underscore Sheraa's growing role in building a vibrant entrepreneurial ecosystem that contributes to establishing a sustainable knowledge economy and enhancing Sharjah's position as a leading centre for innovation and opportunity.

Based on its vision for the future, Sheraa aims to support more than 1,000 entrepreneurs by 2030 by launching unique initiatives that contribute to developing an integrated entrepreneurial environment in Sharjah, based on innovation, sustainability, and comprehensive economic opportunities.

An integrated support system

Her Excellency Sarah Belhaif Al Nuaimi, Executive Director of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa), said: "At Sheraa, we believe that building a knowledge-based economy begins with empowering people, with a belief in their ability to transform their ideas into projects, and with their passion into added value for their community and nation. We are working to develop an integrated system that provides support at various stages of an entrepreneur's journey, equipping them with the tools that enable them to grow sustainably and compete in regional and global markets. Our vision focuses on instilling a culture of innovation, expanding the circle of opportunities for outstanding talent, and creating an environment that motivates them to build companies that make a real difference in the national economy. Investing in people is the cornerstone of a prosperous future, and Sheraa is moving confidently forward to translate this principle into a tangible impact that contributes to strengthening the UAE's position as a global hub for entrepreneurship and innovation."

Sheraa continues to translate its vision into tangible reality through a series of unique initiatives that cover the various stages of an entrepreneur's journey, from idea development to expansion and growth. These initiatives operate within an integrated system that aims to provide entrepreneurs with the tools, expertise, and opportunities that enable them to transform their ideas into competitive projects that contribute to the development of the national economy based on innovation and sustainability.

A platform for building businesses and expanding impact

In this context, Sheraa offers, through the Sharjah Startup Studio, an integrated accelerator programme that enables entrepreneurs to expand their businesses and accelerate their growth. These programmes include a comprehensive package of benefits that combine specialized consulting, funding opportunities, and digital tools valued at more than AED 3 million. Over the course of four months, participants embark on a comprehensive training journey that provides them with practical experience and guidance, and opens the door to connecting with investors and partners, enabling them to build sustainable growth strategies and venture into new markets with confidence and readiness.

Innovation and entrepreneurship forum

As part of its efforts to promote a culture of entrepreneurship, Sheraa continues to organise the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival, which over the years has become the largest platform in the region for empowering entrepreneurs and expanding their horizons. The festival brings together entrepreneurs, investors, and decision-makers under one roof, providing a unique space for dialogue and exchange of experiences through motivational sessions and workshops that keep pace with the latest trends in the world of innovation and entrepreneurship. It also hosts global leaders and experts who have made a positive and sustainable impact, to inspire the next generation of aspiring entrepreneurs. Since its launch in 2017, the festival has attracted more than 44,000 visitors from around the world. It is preparing to launch its ninth edition on January 31 and February 1, celebrating a journey of influence, inspiration, and innovation in the local and global entrepreneurial scene.

A bridge connecting innovation to vital sectors

Reflecting Sheraa's commitment to linking innovation to the economy, the centre launched the "Sharjah Gateway Challenge," a corporate innovation programme that serves as a strategic platform to enhance integration between startups and the emirate's vital priority sectors. The challenge aims to find innovative solutions to the challenges facing key sectors such as education, technology, agriculture, sustainability, and artificial intelligence. It also enables promising startups to develop practical models and ideas that contribute to supporting economic growth and consolidating Sharjah's position as a regional hub for innovation and entrepreneurship.

Female entrepreneurs at the heart of economic transformation

The Sharjah Impact Makers Fellowship embodies the emirate's deep commitment to empowering women and strengthening their presence in the entrepreneurial landscape. The fellowship aims to empower female leaders and support female entrepreneurs in the region to expand their impact and access resources, mentorship, and support networks that enhance their contribution to the economy. The launch of the fellowship is an extension of Sheraa's vision to support female entrepreneurs. Women-led companies represent 51% of the total projects incubated at the centre, a percentage that exceeds global averages and confirms that Sharjah is not only supporting women but also empowering them to lead change.

Empowering the next generation of entrepreneurs

The Entrepreneurship Dojo is one of Sheraa's programmes, specifically designed as an incubator to support young entrepreneurs in developing their ideas into viable and scalable projects.

The programme includes three intensive phases, starting with problem validation, moving on to developing a minimum viable product (MVP), and ending with market launch strategies. The programme is implemented through Sheraa Centres at the American University of Sharjah. Over the past three years, the programme has supported more than 200 students from 21 universities across the UAE, making it an educational and practical platform that brings entrepreneurship concepts closer to the student and academic community. During this journey, participants receive guidance and support that enables them to transform their ideas into startups ready to compete in the local and global markets.

Sheraa Investment Marina serves as a strategic platform that provides startups with direct access to investors through one-on-one meetings tailored to each party's interests.

The platform aims to accelerate growth and create sustainable investment opportunities that enhance companies' readiness for regional and global expansion, contributing to stimulating entrepreneurial financing in the UAE and the region.

A continuing story of influence and vision

Through its comprehensive suite of programmes and initiatives, Sheraa continues its role as a key contributor to building the future of entrepreneurship in the UAE and a true supporter of talent and innovation. Sheraa represents an integrated ecosystem that drives innovation, opens new horizons for growth for entrepreneurs, and transforms Sharjah into an environment where ideas flourish and become tangible achievements.