Latest news with #SaraAbdelazizAlNuaimi
Sharjah 24
08-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
NoorNation, Faunatech win Sheraa's 2024 Challenge, share AED 500K
Organised annually by Sheraa, ASC is a corporate innovation programme that witnesses growth-stage startups tackle themed challenges. The 2024 edition's themes were agritech and livestock health. With collaboration being integral to the initiative's year-on-year success, key partners for the 6th edition of ASC included the Department of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL) as the challenge partner; endorsement from the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), and financial contribution from the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), Sultan bin Ali Al Owais Real Estate, and Ghanim Al Suwaidi Holdings to support the implementation of the solutions. Celebrating its 6th edition, the annual challenge witnessed an overwhelming response, with 2,207 applications from 24 countries, including the USA, Canada, Egypt, France, Argentina, New Zealand, India, UK, Italy, Turkey Oman, Germany, Netherlands, Qatar, Brazil, and Palestine. From this impressive pool, 11 startups were shortlisted with two standout winners securing the top prize. Commenting on the announcement of the winners, H.E. Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, stated: 'The Access Sharjah Challenge serves to address current challenges but also reimagines possibilities in the future. By empowering innovators to tackle water scarcity and livestock health for this past edition, we're enhancing an innovation ecosystem that aligns with Sharjah's vision for a sustainable, food-secure future.' 'Our partnership in the Access Sharjah Challenge reflects our commitment to positioning innovation as a central pillar in advancing the agriculture and livestock sectors, by supporting practical solutions grounded in a deep understanding of real-world challenges,' H.E. Salem Abdullah Al Kaabi, Director of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock said. 'The winning solutions have proven the potential of modern technologies to create a step-change in resource management, enhance livestock productivity, and strengthen sustainable food security. Working alongside our strategic partners to activate these solutions will help shape a smart and resilient agricultural model that aligns with the UAE's aspirations for a more innovative and sustainable economy,' added. Al Kaabi further explained that the department continues to implement its strategy to support small and medium-sized farms with modern technologies, guided by long-term planning frameworks aimed at boosting sector sustainability and productivity, contributing to Sharjah's vision of building a competitive and future-ready economy. Setting the focus of the challenge Within the agritech track, Sheraa welcomed startups to address challenges related to sustainable irrigation amid water scarcity with the statement: 'How might we source water affordably and scalably without burdening farmers?'. For the livestock health track, startups were invited to focus on innovations in monitoring, predictive care, and medicine delivery, with the statement: 'How might we maintain the health of livestock?'. Cost-effective water solutions NoorNation emerged as the winner in the AgriTech track with their revolutionary solution - LifeBox, a solar-powered, self-contained water desalination and pumping system designed to provide clean water for irrigation, drinking, and livestock support, ensuring sustainable and cost-effective water solutions for farmers and rural communities. LifeBox is equipped with advanced remote monitoring and control technology, enabling real-time water management. With plans to deploy the solution across the MENA region, NoorNation aims to tackle water scarcity and high energy costs while reducing CO2 emissions by eliminating reliance on diesel-powered irrigation systems. Their innovation will allow farmers to diversify their crops and improve agricultural productivity in arid regions. On the news of their success, Ragy Ramadan, Founder & CEO NoorNation said, 'We're incredibly grateful and proud to have won the Access Sharjah Challenge 2024. The journey wasn't always easy, but the growth was exponential. Sharjah welcomed us with energy and opportunity, and working with Sheraa and DAL pushed us to evolve as a team and a company. We're now more excited than ever to see the real-world impact LifeBox can create bringing fresh water, food security, and resilience to farms, communities, and industries in Sharjah and beyond. This milestone is not the end but a solid launchpad for NoorNation's regional growth, from product development and local partnerships to international sales and fundraising.' Improving animal health Faunatech, the Livestock Health track winner, introduced a smartphone-based handheld diagnostics platform that ensures early detection of critical livestock diseases, particularly mastitis, which affects nearly 30% of milking cows and buffaloes worldwide. Their Fauna SCC Test, connected to a smartphone, quantifies Somatic Cell Count (SCC) in raw cow milk, allowing on-farm diagnosis, improved milk quality, and reduced antibiotic residues. By improving animal health, increasing dairy productivity, and enhancing milk traceability, Faunatech is set to make a great impact in the UAE's agricultural sector and beyond. The company's long-term vision includes expanding into new markets across Southeast Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. Commenting on their achievement, Rajat Pandya, Co-founder & CEO of Faunatech said, 'Winning the Access Sharjah Challenge has been an incredible milestone for FaunaTech. This programme provides us with a fantastic platform to launch our innovative animal health diagnostics across the UAE and the expansive Middle East dairy market. We're excited to bring our early mastitis detection technology to this vital region. Our vision is to establish our central hub for the Middle East here in Sharjah, and using our success as a springboard, we will hopefully expand into markets across the region. Solving industry-specific challenges The Access Sharjah Challenge is an annual competition that invites international growth-stage startups to solve industry-specific challenges determined by a chosen theme in collaboration with the challenge partner. In past iterations, ASC focused on sectors such as publishing and digital content; healthtech and foodtech; creative economy; F&B and retail; and sustainability. As a launchpad within the emirate's market, the challenge empowers startups to test and scale their solutions in Sharjah. Since its inception in 2019, ASC has provided over AED 3 million in total funding to support visionary entrepreneurs.
Khaleej Times
22-04-2025
- Business
- Khaleej Times
UAE: New generation of entrepreneurs transforming concept, purpose, and culture of enterprise
As the rise of young entrepreneurs continues on an upward trend globally, studies such as the Global Entrepreneurship Monitor (GEM) Report 2024 reveal that these younger demographics, including 'millennials' and 'gen Z', are refining success models and prioritising sustainability and social impact through ethical practices and policies; ultimately creating a positive trajectory for economic activities. 'In the UAE, 47 per cent of social entrepreneurs are between 18-34. It's also important to note that approximately 80 per cent of social entrepreneurs operate at moderate to high levels, providing products and services that support Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) in the country,' Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa), which serves as a major proponent for purpose-driven innovation and entrepreneurial support within the region, told Khaleej Times in an interview. Excerpts: What makes young entrepreneurs more committed to global challenges and sustainable development goals across different fields? One could say that younger generations have grown up amid an acute awareness of intersecting challenges including the likes of climate change and technological disruption. That said, this demographic has also been empowered by unprecedented access to information and tools to enhance understanding and take action. For them, it seems entrepreneurship stretches beyond the bottom line and transcends to the level of legacy and long-term impact. This can be seen through the prevalence of businesses that reflect values such as inclusivity and environmental stewardship. The new generation of entrepreneurs are already transforming the concept, purpose, and culture of enterprise. In the UAE, 47 per cent of social entrepreneurs are between 18-34, and through our efforts at Sheraa to support founders and startups on every step of their journey, we are proud to see founders achieving their goals while addressing complex challenges; from food security to inclusive and accessible services. How do you assess the readiness of young entrepreneurs to take on these developmental responsibilities and achieve their goals? I believe the youth's readiness lies in their drive and ambition, as well as their audacity, and we believe in their passion for making a positive and tangible impact. According to a Microsoft survey, the Gen Z demographic is taking a unique approach within the concept of hard work, both inside and outside the office, with 48 per cent of individuals managing multiple side projects; a testament to their passion and willingness to take risks to achieve their goals. It is also evident that there is a reluctance to separate purpose from profession, and a Deloitte survey found 86 per cent of Gen Z prioritise purpose for their well-being, with half of them claiming they would even walk away from roles and opportunities misaligned with their ethics. At Sheraa, our approach to working with young entrepreneurs stems from a deep understanding of their distinct mindset and unique characteristics, including adaptability and digital proficiency, a strong preference for purpose-driven work, a focus on innovation and sustainability, a commitment to work-life balance, and a fearless approach to challenges. Our understanding of these traits has helped us design specialised programmes and initiatives to support young entrepreneurs. Our methodology is centered on instilling entrepreneurial culture as a mindset for understanding life and navigating it creatively. Sheraa will continue to invest in this generation to help them fulfill their mission through tailored support programmes that align with values we all believe in. Can you provide an example of a programme designed to suit the unique characteristics of young entrepreneurs? One of our key initiatives is our Sheraa Startup Dojo, an intensive three-month program held annually and designed specifically for young entrepreneurs, particularly university students and recent graduates. This embodies several elements that resonate with young entrepreneurs, offering hands-on experience where participants transform their entrepreneurial ideas into full-fledged business plans, gaining real-world perspective in starting and running businesses. The programme does this through mentorship and guidance from Sheraa's team of innovators, mentors, and experienced entrepreneurs, offering personalized support throughout their journey. Another key initiative is the 'Sharjah Access Challenge,' a global initiative that attracts young entrepreneurs with projects and ideas offering smart and effective solutions in critical sectors such as health, education, food security, and sustainability. In 2024, the challenge focused on two main tracks: agritech solutions and livestock health. Startups participating in the challenge developed innovative solutions to overcome obstacles hindering the growth and sustainability of these sectors while enhancing sustainability in business practices. The challenge attracted 2,207 startups and projects from around the world We have also embedded entrepreneurship into academia establishing incubators for young entrepreneurs at the University of Sharjah (UOS) and the American University of Sharjah (AUS). We are confident that this agency will help amplify the voices of this generation and spread awareness about sustainability and economic and social development. What other support does Sheraa provide to young entrepreneurs? At Sheraa, we work on strengthening a supportive entrepreneurial ecosystem, which includes facilitating partnerships between startups and both public and private sectors and providing platforms that connect entrepreneurs with potential investors and funding opportunities. Access to capital remains one of the biggest global challenges for startups and according to a World Bank study, approximately 65 million businesses, representing 40 per cent of micro, small, and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) in developing countries; face an annual funding gap of $5.2 trillion. To address this challenge, our annual flagship event and the largest of its kind in the region — the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF) — plays a major role by offering a platform that connects entrepreneurs with global industry leaders, investors, and experts; opening new avenues to capital. By assembling local and global thought leaders alongside all segments of the entrepreneurial ecosystem, our festival provides entrepreneurs with insights into market trends, networking within global startup ecosystems, and proven and innovative business models from every corner of the globe. What advice would you give to young entrepreneurs? Many entrepreneurial success stories stem from identifying and solving a problem in unique and innovative ways, and although passion is essential, it won't necessarily take you over the finish line. Support and access to knowledge and expertise is essential, and it's advised to truly immerse yourself in the market to gain detailed insight into what you're trying to achieve. Understand your customer's pain points better than they do, and formulate ideas that can conquer challenges in an authentic and sustainable way. It is also crucial to develop a high level of flexibility and adaptability, as this allows entrepreneurs to absorb new developments, learn from them, and evolve accordingly. A large factor regarding our philosophy at Sheraa is connection and networking. Building authentic and strong relationships and partnerships is essential, and according to Al Qafilah magazine, 84 per cent of opportunities are derived from networking and personal connections. Finally, remember that entrepreneurship is a journey of grit and growth, and as I often tell our founders, 'Your ideas may have the ability to change the world, but the journey itself will definitely change you for the better.'
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
