Latest news with #SharjahEntrepreneurshipCentre
Sharjah 24
7 days ago
- Business
- Sharjah 24
SDPW celebrates International Youth Day
Ambition and new beginnings The Department's Training and Employment Section in the Human Resources Department launched the celebration with a specialised training workshop titled "An Ambitious Project: A Sustainable New Beginning," in cooperation with the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa). The workshop aims to provide young people with the knowledge and skills necessary to engage in entrepreneurship and corporate work through practical and interactive programmes focused on developing personal capabilities, understanding labour market requirements, and establishing start-up projects. Smart buildings and sustainability During the event, the Corporate Communications Centre organised a tour for new employees to the Beeah building, an advanced model of environmental and architectural sustainability. Participating employees had the opportunity to learn about best practices in smart building design and sustainable operational processes, enhancing their understanding of the practical applications of sustainability in the workplace. Green proposals A competition was also organised for the best innovative youth proposal that contributes to improving the work environment, providing creative solutions to institutional challenges, or offering a green initiative in the work environment or projects. The competition saw remarkable interaction from participants, who presented a variety of ideas that were evaluated by a specialised committee. The winning idea will be adopted as part of the department's future development plans. Supporting innovation SDPW emphasised that organising this event aligns with its vision to support innovation, encourage youth initiatives, and empower a new generation of leaders and professionals capable of making a positive impact in their communities. The department noted that this type of programme reflects the department's commitment to investing in human capital and creating a work environment that encourages excellence and creativity. Social responsibility The celebration also included panel discussions presented by a group of experts and specialists, addressing several topics, including institutional sustainability, entrepreneurial thinking, setting professional priorities, and achieving a balance between personal ambitions and social responsibilities. This initiative is part of a series of programmes launched by the department to support its employees and youth in the local community, and to enhance cooperation with specialised entities to create a supportive and stimulating environment for the innovation of sustainable ideas and initiatives.
Gulf Today
13-06-2025
- Business
- Gulf Today
Sheraa highlights Sharjah's purpose-driven innovation at VivaTech 2025
The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa) is bringing a curated selection of startups to VivaTech 2025 in Paris, held from 11–14 June, as part of the UAE's official delegation. Spanning sustainability, manufacturing, EdTech, and the creative economy, these ventures exemplify Sheraa's founder-centre model and its mission to cultivate a resilient, globally connected ecosystem anchored in Sharjah. The event brings together 165,000 attendees, including 13,500 startups, 3,500 exhibitors and 3,200 investors. VivaTech 2025 stands as the largest startup and technology event in Europe. The Global Startup Ecosystem Report (GSER) 2025, a comprehensive study of startup ecosystems worldwide published by Startup Genome in collaboration with the Global Entrepreneurship Network, is unveiled at VivaTech. Despite intensifying regional competition and a rapidly evolving landscape, Sharjah retains its #7 ranking in MENA, underscoring the emirate's resilience and strategic clarity. This performance is driven by Sheraa's founder-first approach to venture building, which continues to deliver practical, lasting outcomes and elevate Sharjah's standing on the global innovation map. Najla Al Midfa, Vice Chairperson of Sheraa, said, 'Maintaining Sharjah's position in the GSER rankings reflects the strength of an ecosystem built on clear vision, strategic alignment, and an unwavering drive to empower founders. At Sheraa, we believe in building an ecosystem where every founder feels supported, not just at the start but throughout their entire journey. By aligning government, academia, the private sector, and capital, we create purposeful pathways that fuel progress. True impact comes from steady, thoughtful investment in people and ideas, and from nurturing a culture where innovation can take root and grow.' Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, said, 'Sheraa's participation at VivaTech is a strategic step in connecting Sharjah's entrepreneurial ecosystem with global innovation networks. As one of the world's leading tech events, VivaTech provides a unique platform to spotlight the UAE-based startups we support and open new pathways for cross-border collaboration. We are showcasing a model rooted in market insight, founder needs, and long-term value creation. By focusing on high-impact sectors such as EdTech, sustainability, manufacturing, and creative industries, we continue to drive economic diversification and sustainable development. This participation reflects the UAE's national vision to embed entrepreneurship and innovation into every stage of growth, and at Sheraa, we are proud to contribute by enabling founders to scale purposeful ventures that create real-world impact.' Sheraa showcases a curated lineup of its high-impact startups aligned with its four strategic Centres of Excellence: Sustainability, EdTech, Manufacturing, and Creative Industries. Together, these ventures reflect Sheraa's founder-first ethos and global ambition. These startups are engaging with global investors, partners, and innovators, expanding their reach and contributing to the UAE's global entrepreneurship narrative. As part of their agenda at VivaTech 2025, the UAE delegation engages in several enriching activities to foster cross-border collaboration and entrepreneurial growth. WAM
Sharjah 24
01-06-2025
- 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.
Mid East Info
31-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
National Agriculture Centre and Sheraa Forge Strategic Partnership to Advance AgriTech Entrepreneurship in the UAE
The partnership aims to foster innovation in the agricultural sector and support Emirati entrepreneurs and farmers in achieving national food security and sustainable development goals. Al Ain, United Arab Emirates – May 2025 – In a step towards fostering innovation in agriculture and strengthening sustainable food security, the Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE) has announced a strategic partnership with the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa) to promote agritech entrepreneurship across the UAE. A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed between the National Agriculture Centre and the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa) on the sidelines of the final day of the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition in Al Ain. The ceremony was attended by Her Excellency Dr Amna bint Abdullah Al Dahak, UAE Minister of Climate Change and Environment; Her Excellency Najla Ahmed Al Midfa, Vice Chairperson of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa); Sultan Salem Al Shamsi, Director of the National Agriculture Centre; and Her Excellency Sara Abdulaziz Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa). 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 efficiency—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.' HE 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. 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.
Mid East Info
31-05-2025
- Business
- Mid East Info
Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition Concludes with Commitment to Empowering Farmers and Driving Entrepreneurship for Sustainable Agriculture
The sessions highlighted accelerating entrepreneurship in the agriculture, financing projects and supporting local products. The Conference emphasised investing in innovative agricultural projects and turning them into viable businesses. Al Ain, May 2025 – The inaugural Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition concluded with a firm restatement of the important role of innovation and entrepreneurship in strengthening the agricultural sector and empowering farmers to contribute to the UAE's sustainable food security. Under the patronage of His Highness Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Al Nahyan, Vice President, Deputy Prime Minister of the UAE, and Chairman of the Presidential Court, the event took place at the ADNEC Centre Al Ain from 28 to 31 May 2025. The event witnessed wide participation from Emirati farmers, federal and government entities in agriculture, as well as youth, academics, innovators, entrepreneurs and the community. The final day of the event featured specialised panel discussions addressing the importance of strong national and international partnerships in supporting Emirati farmers, enhancing the sustainable agriculture ecosystem in the UAE, and empowering farmers through agricultural guidance programmes. During the opening ceremony, Her Excellency Najla Ahmed Al Midfa, Vice Chairperson and Managing Director at Emirates Growth Fund Vice Chairperson at Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa), emphasised that the inaugural edition of the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition is a national event that recognises agriculture as a pathway to growth, a means of empowerment, and a key driver of the economy. Her Excellency noted that the event is inspired by the vision of the nation's wise leadership, which regards the agricultural sector as a fundamental pillar of national security and a sustainable economy. It further underscores the importance of elevating agriculture as a national priority and a genuine economic opportunity. Her Excellency said: 'At the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre, we are witnessing a new generation of Emiratis who do not wait for opportunities but create them. They are investing in smart agricultural technologies that will shape the future of the sector. In this spirit, the Emirates Growth Fund was established, with support from the Emirates Development Bank (EDB), to empower innovative national companies in agriculture and food security. The Fund provides flexible investments while allowing the entrepreneurs to manage their projects independently, as our role is to empower, not to control.' HE Al Midfa emphasised that achieving lasting success relies on true collaboration among farmers, entrepreneurs, investors, and policymakers. This collective effort is essential for turning investments in agriculture into investments for the nation and future generations, thereby strengthening food security and advancing economic and environmental sustainability A session titled Entrepreneurship in the Agricultural Sector – Challenges and Opportunities explored key areas for boosting entrepreneurship in agriculture. During the panel discussions, participants focused on topics such as financing agricultural projects and supporting local products to improve their standing in both domestic and international markets. The panels also addressed challenges and opportunities, the importance of investing in innovative and entrepreneurial ideas, and how to turn those ideas into bankable projects. The session was moderated by Mr. Manea Ahmed Alkaabi, CEO of Emirates Beekeepers Company and Chairman of the Hatta Traders Council. The session explored mechanisms to support sustainable projects and promote investment in the agricultural sector. The speakers included Sultan Salem Al Shamsi, Director of the National Agriculture Centre; Shaker Fareed Zainal, Chief Business Officer of the Emirates Development Bank (EDB); Her Excellency Sara Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa); and Dr. Fuzan Alkhalidi, Director of Programmes and Initiatives Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum Global Initiatives (MBRGI). They highlighted the most important challenges in financing agricultural projects. A special session was held with the winners of the Sheikh Mansour bin Zayed Agricultural Excellence Award in the 'Innovation' category, celebrating their achievements, creativity, and innovations. It showcased their journey in the sector, their experiences developing their projects, the challenges they faced, and the factors that contributed to their success. The session also highlighted the lessons learned and best practices that can inspire farmers and entrepreneurs in the agricultural sector to promote innovation and sustainability. This session was presented by Eng. Noura Saeed Al Nuaimi, Lead Researcher at the Abu Dhabi Agriculture and Food Safety Authority, and featured insights from the winners: Eng. Hamad Musabah Al Tunaiji, Mr. Rashid Salim Al Ketbi, Mohammed Albuainain Al Mazrouei, and Hassan Juma Al Zaabi. The Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition 2025 is organised within the framework of the 'Plant the Emirates' National Programme, launched to realise the vision of the late Sheikh Zayed bin Sultan Al Nahyan for expanding green spaces across the UAE. The event features the participation of 22 federal and government Entities, alongside more than 40 private companies and over 20 startups operating in the field of agriculture. Additionally, four national universities are contributing through their extensive research capabilities, thereby making a significant scientific contribution to the Emirates Agriculture Conference and Exhibition, alongside participation from numerous schools.
