Latest news with #SEF2025
Zawya
07-02-2025
- Business
- Zawya
Emirates Development Bank Champions Innovation at Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2025
Sharjah, UAE – Emirates Development Bank (EDB) reaffirmed its commitment to fostering entrepreneurship and innovation by actively participating in the 8th edition of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF) 2025, held at the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park from February 1-2. Under the theme 'Where We Belong,' the festival brought together over 300 global speakers from 45 countries, providing a platform for entrepreneurs, investors, and ecosystem enablers to exchange ideas and drive meaningful change in the UAE's startup landscape. EDB's delegation engaged in high-level discussions on ecosystem building, the power of public-private collaboration, and the evolving needs of startups in the UAE. Beyond financing, EDB continues to play a vital role in mentorship, capacity-building, and strategic networking, ensuring that businesses across the nation have the resources they need to scale and succeed. H.E. Ahmed Mohamed Al Naqbi, CEO of EDB, emphasized the bank's pivotal role in empowering entrepreneurs: "SEF 2025 has once again highlighted the UAE's vibrant entrepreneurial spirit. At EDB, we go beyond financing—our mission is to equip businesses with the tools, knowledge, and partnerships they need to thrive. By integrating finance with strategic capacity-building initiatives, we are shaping an ecosystem where innovation drives sustainable economic growth, keeping the UAE at the forefront of global entrepreneurship.' EDB extends its appreciation to Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) for their ongoing efforts in strengthening the entrepreneurial ecosystem. As a key financial engine for the UAE's economic development, EDB remains committed to supporting high-potential entrepreneurs, fostering innovation, and driving economic diversification—ensuring the UAE continues to be a global hub for entrepreneurial excellence. About Emirates Development Bank: Emirates Development Bank [EDB], the UAE's development bank, is a key financial engine for the UAE's economic development and industrial advancement. EDB provides financial and non-financial support to businesses of all sizes from start-ups, SMEs to corporates driving economic competitiveness across five strategic priority sectors: advanced technology, food security, healthcare, renewables, and manufacturing. EDB was established under Federal Law by Decree No. 07 of 2011 issued by the late Sheikh Khalifa bin Zayed Al Nahyan and became operational in June 2015.
Sharjah 24
30-01-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
SEF 2025 kicks off Friday! With 300 global speakers,250 activities
Across 10 specially curated Zones and 5 Stages the festival will feature more than 300 speakers from 45 countries, 150 startup pods, and 320 investor meetings. Attendees can also engage in over 250 activities including 45 workshops and masterclasses, as well as 7 star-studded performances. Connecting the global ecosystem under the theme of 'Where We Belong,' SEF 2025 champions the impact of community and the spirit of innovation. Over 12,000 eager entrepreneurial enthusiasts are expected to gather in Sharjah, becoming the beating heart of ambition and ingenuity. This is where entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders, and changemakers from around the world will converge and exchange ideas. Organised by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (Sheraa) as the largest event of its kind in the region, and hosted at the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park (SRTIP), this year's festival is taking place from 1-2 February, 2025. Reflecting on preparations for SEF 2025, Sheraa CEO, H.E. Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, stated, 'As our flagship event, and the largest entrepreneurial gathering in the region, SEF has always been more than a festival to Sheraa, as a reflection of the leadership of our Chairperson, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, and belief in the potential of entrepreneurs to transform challenges into opportunities. This year we will witness a powerful convergence of minds and ideas, proving that when community thrives, innovation knows no limits. Sharjah remains committed to nurturing these possibilities and empowering entrepreneurs to dream and make considerable impact on the world.' The largest entrepreneurial festival in the region SEF 2025 commands a truly global stage, featuring more than 300 speakers from 45 countries, where visionary voices like H.E. Alia Bint Abdulla Al Mazrouei, UAE's Minister of State for Entrepreneurship; President and Director of the Sharjah Art Foundation, Sheikha Hoor bint Sultan Al Qasimi; HRH Princess Lamia Bint Majed Saud AlSaud, global humanitarian leader and advocate; the iconic French footballer Thierry Henry; Dutch extreme athlete and wellness guru, Wim Hof; Ann Hiatt, Jeff Bezos' former 'right-hand advisor'; and Mo Gawdat, former Chief Business Officer of Google X. These prolific leaders will deliver thought-provoking talks, spark industry-disrupting conversations, and are set to inspire attendees with their stories, insights, and actionable wisdom, fueling innovation across every sector. The 'Investors Lounge' will facilitate over 320 personalised meetings for attending founders and startups, acting as an invaluable networking platform with potential investors. Adding to the excitement, the 'Startup Pitch Competition' in collaboration with 1Tank; by the founders' community 1trepreneur; will be a launchpad for innovative startups, and a chance to compete for a prize pool of AED 200,000, and an opportunity for a further AED 500,000 from investors. Experiential activities and entertainment SEF is globally renowned as the region's largest entrepreneurial celebration of culture and community, and adding to the immersive experience the 'SEF Souq' will showcase local and regional artisans and brands; 'SEF Eats' will invite attendees to experience culinary delights and world-famous F&B brands; and an electrifying lineup of live performances will include Canadian duo 'Music Travel Love', Egyptian singer and songwriter 'Hamza Namira', and Kuwaiti Rap group 'Sons of Yusuf'. Facilitating meaningful collaborations Creating an ecosystem of partnership and collaboration, SEF 2025 introduces several dedicated zones powered by leading regional organizations. The Impact Zone, powered by Arada, serves as the epicenter and main stage for discussions and inspiring keynotes, and the Made in Sharjah, powered by the Sharjah Investment & Development Authority (Shurooq), the Bank of Sharjah, and the Sharjah Business Women's Council (SWBC), celebrates local talent and innovation. The SEF Vault, powered by the Emirates Petroleum Company (Emarat), will offer exclusive comfort and networking for VIPs, organisations and government entities, while Startup Town, powered by du, will give startups a platform to showcase and connect with investors and mentors. The Creative Zone, powered by Invest Bank, serves as a space to showcase and expand attendee's knowledge and skills within the creative industries, while exploring new business opportunities, and the newly added Wellness & Sustainability Zone, powered by EMAAR, will highlight forward-thinking initiatives and holistic approaches to entrepreneurship. These zones reflect the festival's commitment to facilitating meaningful collaborations and addressing important aspects of entrepreneurial growth. For more information and for your final chance to join the experience, visit the official SEF website at
Zawya
30-01-2025
- Business
- Zawya
SEF 2025 kicks off tomorrow - with 12,000 expected attendees, 300 global speakers and 250 experiential activities
10 specially curated zones and 5 unique stages Over 250 activities including 45 skill-building workshops and masterclasses Over 150 startup pods 320 exclusive investor meetings Grants totaling AED 200,000, along with potential investor funding opportunities of up to AED 500,000 7 star-studded performances Sharjah: T omorrow, the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF) 2025 kicks off, setting the stage for an electrifying 2-day event that promises to redefine innovation and collaboration across the region. Across 10 specially curated Zones and 5 Stages the festival will feature more than 300 speakers from 45 countries, 150 startup pods, and 320 investor meetings. Attendees can also engage in over 250 activities including 45 workshops and masterclasses, as well as 7 star-studded performances. Connecting the global ecosystem under the theme of 'Where We Belong,' SEF 2025 champions the impact of community and the spirit of innovation. Over 12,000 eager entrepreneurial enthusiasts are expected to gather in Sharjah, becoming the beating heart of ambition and ingenuity. This is where entrepreneurs, investors, industry leaders, and changemakers from around the world will converge and exchange ideas. Organised by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (Sheraa) as the largest event of its kind in the region, and hosted at the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park (SRTIP), this year's festival is taking place from 1-2 February, 2025. Reflecting on preparations for SEF 2025, Sheraa CEO, H.E. Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, stated, 'As our flagship event, and the largest entrepreneurial gathering in the region, SEF has always been more than a festival to Sheraa, as a reflection of the leadership of our Chairperson, Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, and belief in the potential of entrepreneurs to transform challenges into opportunities. This year we will witness a powerful convergence of minds and ideas, proving that when community thrives, innovation knows no limits. Sharjah remains committed to nurturing these possibilities and empowering entrepreneurs to dream and make considerable impact on the world.' The largest entrepreneurial festival in the region SEF 2025 commands a truly global stage, featuring more than 300 speakers from 45 countries, where visionary voices like H.E. Alia Bint Abdulla Al Mazrouei, UAE's Minister of State for Entrepreneurship; President and Director of the Sharjah Art Foundation, Sheikha Hoor bint Sultan Al Qasimi; HRH Princess Lamia Bint Majed Saud AlSaud, global humanitarian leader and advocate; the iconic French footballer Thierry Henry; Dutch extreme athlete and wellness guru, Wim Hof; Ann Hiatt, Jeff Bezos' former 'right-hand advisor'; and Mo Gawdat, former Chief Business Officer of Google X. These prolific leaders will deliver thought-provoking talks, spark industry-disrupting conversations, and are set to inspire attendees with their stories, insights, and actionable wisdom, fueling innovation across every sector. The 'Investors Lounge' will facilitate over 320 personalised meetings for attending founders and startups, acting as an invaluable networking platform with potential investors. Adding to the excitement, the 'Startup Pitch Competition' in collaboration with 1Tank; by the founders' community 1trepreneur; will be a launchpad for innovative startups, and a chance to compete for a prize pool of AED 200,000, and an opportunity for a further AED 500,000 from investors. Experiential activities and entertainment SEF is globally renowned as the region's largest entrepreneurial celebration of culture and community, and adding to the immersive experience the 'SEF Souq' will showcase local and regional artisans and brands; 'SEF Eats' will invite attendees to experience culinary delights and world-famous F&B brands; and an electrifying lineup of live performances will include Canadian duo 'Music Travel Love', Egyptian singer and songwriter 'Hamza Namira', and Kuwaiti Rap group 'Sons of Yusuf'. Facilitating meaningful collaborations Creating an ecosystem of partnership and collaboration, SEF 2025 introduces several dedicated zones powered by leading regional organizations. The Impact Zone, powered by Arada, serves as the epicenter and main stage for discussions and inspiring keynotes, and the Made in Sharjah, powered by the Sharjah Investment & Development Authority (Shurooq), the Bank of Sharjah, and the Sharjah Business Women's Council (SWBC), celebrates local talent and innovation. The SEF Vault, powered by the Emirates Petroleum Company (Emarat), will offer exclusive comfort and networking for VIPs, organisations and government entities, while Startup Town, powered by du, will give startups a platform to showcase and connect with investors and mentors. The Creative Zone, powered by Invest Bank, serves as a space to showcase and expand attendee's knowledge and skills within the creative industries, while exploring new business opportunities, and the newly added Wellness & Sustainability Zone, powered by EMAAR, will highlight forward-thinking initiatives and holistic approaches to entrepreneurship. These zones reflect the festival's commitment to facilitating meaningful collaborations and addressing important aspects of entrepreneurial growth. For more information and for your final chance to join the experience, visit the official SEF website at
Sharjah 24
29-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Sharjah 24
SEF presents 17 world-famous F&B brands at the ‘SEF EATS' zone
Adding to the festival's dynamic lineup, attendees can participate in immersive culinary workshops that blend education with hands-on experiences. Highlights include interactive sessions led by renowned international chefs and food experts such as Sagra Italian Pastificio, Hadil El Khatib, and Chef Ahmed Halawa, alongside thought-provoking discussions with industry-leading F&B entrepreneurs. Beyond SEF EATS, the festival will showcase over 250 engaging activities, featuring 45 workshops, interactive sessions, thought-provoking talks, and global music performances by renowned artists. SEF 2025's 10 curated zones and 5 engaging stages promises an inspiring, fun, and inclusive celebration that champions creativity, innovation, and community. Bringing the world's most incredible food to Sharjah A major highlight of SEF EATS includes the arrival of 'Brooki Bakehouse', a celebrated Australian bakery that has earned a global following through millions of followers on social media. This marks the first time owner Brooke Bellamy brings her creations to Sharjah, offering festival-goers a taste of her globally loved treats. Brooke will also inspire and engage with the audience on the opening day through her talk on the Creative & Youth Stage titled 'How I Became the Internet's Favorite Baker', and a workshop titled 'Bake with Brooki in Sharjah.' Also debuting at the festival is 'BKRY', a Dubai-based bakery with a reputation for inventive pastries and croissants, and will be sure to excite food-loving attendees. 'Honestry', a brand dedicated to crafting desserts that redefine indulgence for health-conscious food lovers, will also be at SEF for the first time. Adding to the excitement is a unique collaboration between '3 Fils', 'Konbini', and 'Temple Creamery', which promises a fusion of bold Japanese-inspired creations and artisanal dessert perfection. SEF EATS will also spotlight another exclusive collaboration between 'Mara' restaurant and lounge, and 'Malik Al Sambosa', which will blend contemporary and traditional flavors into a special festival menu available only during SEF 2025. Workshops and insightful talks The SEF Eats Zone will also include a number of workshops such as a pasta making workshop with artisanal Italian pasta shop, 'Sagra Italian Pastificio', a Matcha making masterclass with Hadil El Khatib, and a Knafeh Making Workshop by Chef Ahmad Halawa. Across the various stages there will also be talks and panel discussions such as 'Building an F&B Empire' with Dr. Hamad Alawar,Founder, High Joint and 'Pushing the Boundaries of Culinary Excellence: The Home Bakery Story' on the community stage by Hind Almulla, Founder, Home Bakery. From innovative startups to beloved culinary icons, SEF EATS curates a truly unique experience where every vendor brings their distinctive flavor and passion for food. Whether you're sampling bold new dishes, indulging in familiar favorites, or connecting with like-minded foodies, SEF EATS offers a feast for the senses that perfectly complements the spirit of SEF 2025. For more information and to secure your ticket to the festival taking place from 1-2 February, 2025 at the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park in Sharjah, visit
Zawya
29-01-2025
- Entertainment
- Zawya
SEF 2025 presents 17 world-famous F&B brands at the ‘SEF EATS' Zone including BKRY and Brooki Bakehouse
An exclusive collaboration between Mara restaurant and Malik Al Sambosa in a unique menu crafted exclusively for SEF 2025 Sharjah: SEF 2025 is set to redefine the festival experience, bringing together 17 internationally acclaimed brands and local vendors within their newly added ' SEF EATS ' zone. Blending culinary excellence with entrepreneurial creativity, the zone will also feature global debuts from ' Brooki Bakehouse ' and ' BKRY ', as well as exclusive partnerships and special menus crafted exclusively for the event. Adding to the festival's dynamic lineup, attendees can participate in immersive culinary workshops that blend education with hands-on experiences. Highlights include interactive sessions led by renowned international chefs and food experts such as Sagra Italian Pastificio, Hadil El Khatib, and Chef Ahmed Halawa, alongside thought-provoking discussions with industry-leading F&B entrepreneurs. Beyond SEF EATS, the festival will showcase over 250 engaging activities, featuring 45 workshops, interactive sessions, thought-provoking talks, and global music performances by renowned artists. SEF 2025's 10 curated zones and 5 engaging stages promises an inspiring, fun, and inclusive celebration that champions creativity, innovation, and community. Bringing the world's most incredible food to Sharjah A major highlight of SEF EATS includes the arrival of ' Brooki Bakehouse ', a celebrated Australian bakery that has earned a global following through millions of followers on social media. This marks the first time owner Brooke Bellamy brings her creations to Sharjah, offering festival-goers a taste of her globally loved treats. Brooke will also inspire and engage with the audience on the opening day through her talk on the Creative & Youth Stage titled ' How I Became the Internet's Favorite Baker ', and a workshop titled 'Bake with Brooki in Sharjah.' Also debuting at the festival is ' BKRY ', a Dubai-based bakery with a reputation for inventive pastries and croissants, and will be sure to excite food-loving attendees. ' Honestry ', a brand dedicated to crafting desserts that redefine indulgence for health-conscious food lovers, will also be at SEF for the first time. Adding to the excitement is a unique collaboration between ' 3 Fils ', ' Konbini ', and ' Temple Creamery ', which promises a fusion of bold Japanese-inspired creations and artisanal dessert perfection. SEF EATS will also spotlight another exclusive collaboration between ' Mara ' restaurant and lounge, and ' Malik Al Sambosa ', which will blend contemporary and traditional flavors into a special festival menu available only during SEF 2025. Workshops and insightful talks The SEF Eats Zone will also include a number of workshops such as a pasta making workshop with artisanal Italian pasta shop, ' Sagra Italian Pastificio ', a Matcha making masterclass with Hadil El Khatib, and a Knafeh Making Workshop by Chef Ahmad Halawa. Across the various stages there will also be talks and panel discussions such as ' Building an F&B Empire ' with Dr. Hamad Alawar,Founder, High Joint and ' Pushing the Boundaries of Culinary Excellence: The Home Bakery Story ' on the community stage by Hind Almulla, Founder, Home Bakery. From innovative startups to beloved culinary icons, SEF EATS curates a truly unique experience where every vendor brings their distinctive flavor and passion for food. Whether you're sampling bold new dishes, indulging in familiar favorites, or connecting with like-minded foodies, SEF EATS offers a feast for the senses that perfectly complements the spirit of SEF 2025. For more information and to secure your ticket to the festival taking place from 1-2 February, 2025 at the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park in Sharjah, visit
