Latest news with #SaraAbdulazizAlNuaimi
Sharjah 24
3 days ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Sheraa, National Agriculture Centre forge strategic partnership
Attendance The ceremony was attended by Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, Minister of Climate Change and Environment; Najla Ahmed Al Midfa, Vice Chairperson of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa); Sultan Salem Al Shamsi, Director of the National Agriculture Centre; and Sara Abdulaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa). Building a resilient and sustainable food future for UAE Sultan Salem Al Shamsi said: 'This partnership reflects our continued commitment to the leadership's vision of building a resilient and sustainable food future for the UAE. Supporting innovation and empowering entrepreneurs and Emirati farmers is central to our strategy for enhancing national agricultural production and competitiveness. Through our strategic collaboration with Sheraa, we aim to create an enabling environment that nurtures pioneering ideas and transforms them into impactful ventures. These efforts will lead to the development of climate-smart technological solutions, help reduce agricultural waste and improve resource efficienc—directly supporting our national goals for food security and sustainable agricultural growth.' He added: 'The signing of this agreement during the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition underscores the importance we place on the synergy between government entities, the private sector and entrepreneurship enablers. This collaboration ensures that necessary support is extended to farmers and young entrepreneurs, enabling them to play an active role in the transition towards modern, sustainable agricultural systems.' Sustainable agriculture Sara Abdulaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, said: 'This partnership stems from a shared belief that sustainable agriculture forms the foundation for future readiness and acts as a key driver of innovation. Sheraa remains committed to empowering entrepreneurs to turn challenges into opportunities. Through the Sheraa Centre of Excellence for Sustainability, and in collaboration with the National Agriculture Centre, we are supporting a new generation of founders by equipping them with the tools, knowledge, and networks they need to build impactful ventures that strengthen food security, enhance climate resilience, and contribute to a diversified, future-ready economy.' The MoU outlines a broad framework for cooperation aimed at advancing the agri-entrepreneurship ecosystem in the UAE. This includes supporting startups within the sector, promoting knowledge exchange, and launching joint initiatives. The partnership also seeks to promote innovation in sustainable agriculture and agricultural technology. The initiative is expected to empower local farmers by introducing them to innovative solutions developed by startups, encouraging the adoption of climate-smart farming practices and creating new opportunities to scale their operations—further enhancing their contribution to the national food security agenda. MoUs The meeting also featured the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the National Agriculture Centre and the New Economy Academy to establish a framework for joint cooperation in developing and implementing training programmes, capacity-building initiatives, and institutional collaboration within the agricultural sector. The MoU aims to design and deliver specialised training and awareness programmes in agriculture, thereby enhancing the competencies of professionals and stakeholders and promoting sustainable agricultural practices. The agreement seeks to strengthen the innovation ecosystem and facilitate knowledge transfer by building the technical capabilities of national talent, supporting sustained excellence and the adoption of advanced agricultural technologies. It aims to contribute to sustainable development and food security through targeted educational and awareness initiatives that engage various segments of society, raise environmental and food-related awareness, and advance sustainability goals. The MoU also includes the development of effective governance, monitoring, and evaluation mechanisms to ensure the effective implementation of agreed initiatives, guided by clear performance indicators. These mechanisms are intended to maximise impact, ensure accountability, and foster the continuous improvement of joint cooperation programmes. Another Memorandum of Understanding was signed between the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment and the Emirates Growth Fund (EGF) to establish a general framework for cooperation aimed at fostering economic growth and sustainable development in the UAE. The agreement supports projects and initiatives that align with the nation's environmental goals, the National Food Security Strategy 2051, and the 'We the UAE 2031' vision. Under the terms of the MoU, both parties will collaborate to identify priority areas within sustainable agriculture and food security. This includes developing a portfolio of high-impact initiatives and projects eligible for support by the Fund, ensuring alignment with national strategies such as the National Food Security Strategy 2051 and the UAE's Net Zero 2050 Strategy. The MoU also emphasises the importance of supporting projects that strengthen food security while preserving environmental resources. Furthermore, it aims to stimulate investment in sustainable agriculture by introducing incentive mechanisms and promoting agricultural entrepreneurship.
Sharjah 24
4 days ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Sheraa's inaugural Deal Dock draws $670M+ investor interest
Leading venture capital firms join forces at Deal Dock This edition of Sheraa Deal Dock welcomed the participation of six investors: Global Ventures, Continuous Ventures, Oraseya Capital, Wamda Capital, Beco Capital, and Shorooq Partners. Collectively, these firms represent a capital pool exceeding $671 million, underscoring the strength and growing reputation of Sharjah's entrepreneurial ecosystem, as well as Sheraa's ability to convene mission-aligned capital partners. Each investor brought distinct sector expertise and investment philosophies, contributing to the event's goal of facilitating high-value, founder-investor connections that go beyond the pitch. Facilitating meaningful connections between startups and investors The event aligns with Sheraa's wider mission to accelerate access to capital and support the growth of impactful ventures. Each of the participating startups took part in one-on-one meetings with aligned investors. These meetings were matched to ensure mutual interest and sector alignment, maximising the chances of meaningful outcomes. Founders gain insights in 'Inside the Investor's Mind' fireside chat The event featured a fireside chat titled Inside the Investor's Mind , offering founders rare insight into investor expectations and decision-making dynamics. The chat featured Sonia Weymuller, Co-Founder and General Partner at VentureSouq and a Sheraa Advisory Board Member, in conversation with moderator Nader Amiri, General Partner at Homegrown Ventures and a Sheraa alum. As a leading voice in the investment space, Weymuller shared valuable perspectives drawn from her experience supporting startups across the region and beyond. Strategic partnership with continuous venture capital to boost early-stage funding During the event, Sheraa signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Continuous Venture Capital, marking a strategic collaboration aimed at expanding funding opportunities for Sheraa portfolio startups, specifically targeting those in the pre-seed and seed stages. MoU reinforces Sheraa's commitment to startup growth The MoU was signed by HE Sara Abdulaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, and Colin Meagle, Founding Partner of Continuous Venture Capital. This partnership reinforces Sheraa's commitment to accelerating startup growth by facilitating access to early-stage capital, strengthening investment readiness, and connecting founders with regional and international investors. Through this collaboration, startups will benefit from strategic support, market exposure, and tailored engagement with Continuous VC's investment network. Empowering purpose-driven entrepreneurs through strategic collaboration Her Excellency Sara Abdulaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, said: 'Sheraa Deal Dock reflects our continued commitment to building platforms that unlock meaningful opportunities for both entrepreneurs and investors...' She added: 'We recognise that early-stage founders need more than just capital; they need partners who understand the challenges of building a business and are committed to their long-term success..." Continuous VC affirms commitment to regional innovation Highlighting the strategic value of the collaboration, Colin Meagle, Founding Partner, Continuous Venture Capital said: "We believe that transformative ventures often begin with a single opportunity; one that's backed by belief, guidance, and access to the right resources..." Sheraa's track record and future vision for Sharjah's startup ecosystem Sheraa Deal Dock exemplifies Sheraa's role in positioning Sharjah as a global hub for entrepreneurship and innovation. Since 2016, Sheraa has supported over 450 startups and helped raise nearly $300 million in funding. Events like Deal Dock represent the next chapter in this journey, where curated access, quality engagement, and measurable outcomes define success.
Gulf Today
4 days ago
- Business
- Gulf Today
Sheraa's Deal Dock attracts over $670 million capital pool
The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) hosted the first edition of Sheraa Deal Dock on Thursday at its headquarters, bringing together around 200 startups and bridging them with a network of active investors. The event also witnessed the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between Sheraa and Continuous Venture Capital, aimed at expanding access to funding for Sheraa-supported startups, particularly those in the pre-seed and seed stages. This edition of Sheraa Deal Dock welcomed the participation of six investors: Global Ventures, Continuous Ventures, Oraseya Capital, Wamda Capital, Beco Capital, and Shorooq Partners. Collectively, these firms represent a capital pool exceeding $671 million, underscoring the strength and growing reputation of Sharjah's entrepreneurial ecosystem, as well as Sheraa's ability to convene mission-aligned capital partners. Each investor brought distinct sector expertise and investment philosophies, contributing to the event's goal of facilitating high-value, founder-investor connections that go beyond the pitch. The event aligns with Sheraa's wider mission to accelerate access to capital and support the growth of impactful ventures. Each of the participating startups took part in one-on-one meetings with aligned investors. These meetings were matched to ensure mutual interest and sector alignment, maximizing the chances of meaningful outcomes. The event featured a fireside chat titled Inside the Investor's Mind, offering founders rare insight into investor expectations and decision-making dynamics. The chat featured Sonia Weymuller, Co-Founder and General Partner at VentureSouq and a Sheraa Advisory Board Member, in conversation with moderator Nader Amiri, General Partner at Homegrown Ventures and a Sheraa alum. As a leading voice in the investment space, Weymuller shared valuable perspectives drawn from her experience supporting startups across the region and beyond. During the event, Sheraa signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Continuous Venture Capital, marking a strategic collaboration aimed at expanding funding opportunities for Sheraa portfolio startups, specifically targeting those in the pre-seed and seed stages. The MoU was signed by Sara Abdulaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, and Colin Meagle, Founding Partner of Continuous Venture Capital. This partnership reinforces Sheraa's commitment to accelerating startup growth by facilitating access to early-stage capital, strengthening investment readiness, and connecting founders with regional and international investors. Through this collaboration, startups will benefit from strategic support, market exposure, and tailored engagement with Continuous VC's investment network. Sara Abdulaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, said: 'Sheraa Deal Dock reflects our continued commitment to building platforms that unlock meaningful opportunities for both entrepreneurs and investors. The event was designed to foster strategic, action-oriented connections, enabling startups to present their ventures in a focused environment and gain valuable feedback to accelerate their growth. Through such initiatives, we advance our efforts to position Sharjah as a dynamic hub for entrepreneurship and innovation, supporting purpose-driven ventures that contribute to a more resilient and diversified economy.' She added: 'We recognise that early-stage founders need more than just capital; they need partners who understand the challenges of building a business and are committed to their long-term success. Our partnership with Continuous Venture Capital is a strategic extension of this philosophy. By enhancing access to funding, improving investment readiness, and expanding connections to relevant investor networks, we are creating an enabling environment where bold ideas can thrive. This collaboration reinforces Sheraa's mission to empower entrepreneurs and turn ambitious visions into tangible, lasting impact.' Highlighting the strategic value of the collaboration, Colin Meagle, Founding Partner, Continuous Venture Capital said: 'We believe that transformative ventures often begin with a single opportunity; one that's backed by belief, guidance, and access to the right resources. Partnering with Sheraa allows us to tap into a pipeline of purpose-driven founders who are solving real-world problems with innovation and integrity. Together, we are not just investing in startups; we are building a foundation for sustainable growth, empowering the next generation of changemakers, and strengthening the region's role as a global hub for entrepreneurial excellence.' Sheraa Deal Dock exemplifies Sheraa's role in positioning Sharjah as a global hub for entrepreneurship and innovation. Since 2016, Sheraa has supported over 450 startups and helped raise nearly $300 million in funding. Events like Deal Dock represent the next chapter in this journey, where curated access, quality engagement, and measurable outcomes define success.
Sharjah 24
22-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Sheraa and HORIVISTA forge strategic partnership
The agreement establishes a framework for collaboration aimed at supporting the growth of startups between the United Arab Emirates and China, leveraging HORIVISTA's deep expertise in bridging both markets to create long-term impact. The MoU was signed by Her Excellency Sara Abdulaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa and Sam Sun, Managing Director of HORIVISTA and Sheraa alum. Under this agreement, Sheraa shall extend support to eligible Chinese startups referred by HORIVISTA by facilitating their expansion in the UAE through setting up in Sharjah, as well as participation in Sheraa's programs, including the Sharjah Startup Studio (S3) and the Access Sharjah Challenge, in accordance with Sheraa's prevailing eligibility and selection criteria. Where such startups seek to establish a presence in the United Arab Emirates, Sheraa shall provide access to subsidised business licensing, coworking facilities, and tailored advisory services to support their market entry and operational setup. In turn, HORIVISTA will support Sheraa-backed startups to scale their ventures to the Chinese market. This agreement reflects the shared commitment of both parties to fostering cross-border collaboration and supporting startups in accessing new markets. Startups seeking to enter the Chinese market will receive support that includes market insights, introductions to local business networks, and guidance on navigating China's regulatory landscape, enabling a smooth market entry. Sara Abdulaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, said: "At Sheraa, we believe that enabling startups to scale beyond borders is key to building resilient, future-ready economies. Our partnership with HORIVISTA is a powerful step in this direction, opening new doors for entrepreneurs from both the UAE and China to collaborate, innovate, and tap into dynamic markets. By combining our ecosystems, we can accelerate growth opportunities and create lasting impact.' Sam Sun, Managing Director of HORIVISTA and Sheraa alum said: "This MoU marks a significant milestone in bridging two vibrant startup ecosystems. Through our collaboration with Sheraa, we look forward to supporting Chinese startups in navigating the UAE's thriving business landscape, while also offering a gateway for Sheraa-backed entrepreneurs into China. Together, we aim to foster a two-way flow of innovation, talent, and investment that drives meaningful cross-border growth.' Sheraa's Programmes Build the Foundations for Startups Success During the "Make it in the Emirates 2025" forum, the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) is showcasing its range of programs that support founders at every stage of their journey. These programs include Startup Blueprint, a self-paced online course introducing aspiring founders to fundamental entrepreneurial skills. Startup Dojo helps turn early ideas into viable business models while building strong team dynamics. Its follow-on program, Startup Dojo+, supports founders in validating their solutions, developing MVPs, and preparing for market entry. Among Sheraa's key offerings is the Sharjah Startup Studio (S3), its flagship incubator program, which enables early-stage startups to grow, acquire customers, and become investor-ready. The Access Sharjah Challenge (ASC) rounds out the journey by helping growth-stage startups co-create pilot projects with local partners and enter new markets. Driven by its programmes and strategic partnerships, Sheraa continues to empower founders at every stage of their journey, turning ambitious ideas into scalable ventures that grow from the UAE and expand to global markets.
Sharjah 24
21-05-2025
- Business
- Sharjah 24
Sheraa signs agreement with China's HORIVISTA
The agreement opens a smooth pathway for Chinese startups to establish their businesses in the Emirate, while also offering local companies opportunities for expansion and access to Chinese markets. Comprehensive Support Programs In exclusive statements to 'Sharjah24' ,Sara Abdulaziz Al Nuaimi confirmed that the agreement allows Chinese startups to benefit from Sheraa's integrated programs, which include incubation, acceleration, co-working spaces, mentorship, and seed funding, facilitating the launch of their businesses in Sharjah within a developed entrepreneurship ecosystem. Ideal Expansion Environment The CEO of Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre added that the partnership also has a reciprocal aspect, enabling local startups to enter the Chinese market through Horrvista's network and its partners. This broadens international expansion opportunities and access to new consumers. She noted that the agreement aligns with Sheraa's strategy to connect entrepreneurs with global markets and reinforce Sharjah's position as a hub for innovative investment. She also emphasised that the forum provided an ideal environment to establish cross-border partnerships that unite industrial and innovative enablers.
