During the pitch day, the 11 innovative startups presented their Proof of Concept (POC) solutions before a distinguished panel of judges. After careful consideration, two outstanding startups will be selected representing each track and will each receive contracts worth AED 250,000; along with continued guidance and support from Sheraa and their ecosystem partners; providing them with a six-month implementation period to bring their groundbreaking innovations to further advance Sharjah’s impact in the agriculture and livestock sector.

Speaking on the impact of ASC 2024, Sheraa CEO, H.E. Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi stated, “Sheraa is dedicated to empowering innovative entrepreneurs who are committed to addressing the pressing challenges facing our world today. With support from our valued partners, and aligned with our newly established Centers of Excellence, we aim to continue instilling a culture of innovation and resilience, transforming pioneering ideas into impactful solutions that contribute to a sustainable future for all. We believe that Sharjah can be the epicenter of this advancement across various sectors, and our Access Sharjah Challenge provides an incredible opportunity for entrepreneurs to seize the moment and implement their solutions proactively within the emirate.”

Turning cutting-edge ideas into impactful solutions
For the 6th edition of ASC, Sheraa collaborated with the Department of Agriculture and Livestock as this year’s challenge partner, and was endorsed by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE), designing the challenge’s focus around two main themes, namely, AgriTech and Livestock Health. ASC 2024 has also enjoyed the support from key sponsors such as the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI), Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Real Estate, and Al Ghanim Holding.

Ahead of the pitch event, senior representatives from DAL led a comprehensive corporate innovation training program. This initiative allowed the shortlisted startups to participate in in-depth sessions with DAL, ensuring that their solutions were both suitable and adaptable to the organization’s needs.

The AgriTech track aims to address critical challenges such as water scarcity and sustainable agricultural practices, while the Livestock Health track focuses on innovative solutions to ensure livestock sustainability and enhance biosecurity systems. Together, these tracks represent Sheraa’s efforts to support sustainable solutions that combine agricultural innovation with technological advancement, in line with their recently established Center of Excellence for Sustainability.

The distinguished panel of judges responsible for selecting the winning startups brought together notable figures including Razan Al Hammadi, Director of Green Development; Jamal Al Suwaidi, Director of Digital Transformation; and Maryam Al Muaini, Head of the Livestock Section at DAL. Sheraa was proudly represented by their CEO, H.E. Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi; Head of Strategy, Mishal Tassadaq; Head of Partnerships and Programs, Abeer AlAmeeri; and Advisor to CEO, Arwa AlGhamai.

The event also welcomed a number of influential entities that contribute to the success of the  entrepreneurial ecosystem within Sharjah, including the Department of Agriculture and Livestock, Emirates Development Bank (EDB), AlDhaid University, Sharjah Sustainable City (SSC), DU, University of Sharjah, and the US Consulate. Their presence underscored the broader community’s enthusiasm and shared vision for transforming innovative ideas into sustainable solutions.

Building a supportive ecosystem
The Pitch Day marks the exciting final stage of ASC 2024, setting the stage for the selected startups to begin implementation and make an immediate impact within the agricultural sector. By bringing startups from diverse backgrounds and providing them with the opportunity to pitch and prove their concepts, this initiative reaffirms Sheraa’s dedication to building a supportive ecosystem that empowers entrepreneurs to drive change, create sustainable solutions, and contribute to the region’s economy and prosperity.

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Applicants must apply on the Sheraa website: https://www.startups.sheraa.ae  before September 5, 2024.

The Department of Agriculture and Livestock and the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment have collaborated with Sheraa to design the 2024 edition of ASC. The prestigious initiative also benefits from the support of the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SCCI) and Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Real Estate.

Eligibility, mentorship & product development opportunities and a huge cash prize
To be shortlisted, applicants must present practical, implementable solutions and a ready-to-use model and commit to establishing their company. The top 10 shortlisted ideas will undergo intensive training to refine their concepts into viable projects.

ASC 2024 aims to invite and support startups during their critical growth phase, offering innovative solutions contributing to long-term economic and environmental sustainability. Additionally, entrepreneurs will receive mentorship and guidance to transform their creative ideas into successful, sustainable businesses.

Winners will be selected by a jury and announced. The prize purse of AED 500,000 will be split evenly between winners of the two tracks.

ASC 2024 is part of a larger goal of becoming a global food security leader
Sara Al Nuaimi, CEO of Sheraa, highlighted ASC 2024’s role in providing startups and entrepreneurs worldwide with a platform to showcase their innovative solutions, contributing to positive change and fostering innovation in the emirate. She affirmed the challenge’s alignment with Sharjah’s vision to support the UAE’s National Food Security Strategy 2051, aiming to position the country as a global leader in innovation-based food security.

She said: “This year’s challenge demonstrates Sheraa’s commitment to establishing Sharjah as a leading regional and global hub in AgriTech and livestock health. By leveraging modern technology, we aim to enhance agricultural production, achieve self-sufficiency, and address water scarcity resulting from climate change and population growth. This advances sustainable development on economic, social, and environmental fronts.”

For his part, Dr. Eng. Khalifa Musabah Al Tunaiji, Chairman of the Department of Agriculture and Livestock in Sharjah, said ASC aims to provide sustainable solutions to the challenges faced by the agricultural and livestock sector. It focuses on developing sustainable strategies to advance the ecosystem, adapt to climate change, and enhance food security by implementing best practices, studies, and innovative technologies, aligning with the national food security strategy and reducing carbon emissions.

He added that Sharjah’s experience in the sector is unparalleled, having made significant efforts to make it resilient. This includes adopting smart and sustainable agricultural practices, using modern technologies to increase wheat production while reducing water usage by 30%, and conducting research at the Mleiha Farm’s biotechnology laboratories. These efforts led to the development of the ‘Sharjah-1’ wheat strain, which is more climate-resilient, water-efficient, highly productive, and nutritionally rich. These achievements earned the Mleiha wheat farm the Future Fit Seal, recognising it as a leading project supporting food security.

AgriTech
The AgriTech track invites innovators to present their visions and establish startups in Sharjah that offer practical solutions, such as sustainable irrigation methods, desalination innovations, and sustainable practices with minimal environmental impact. This track reflects Sheraa’s dedication to addressing water scarcity, which poses a significant threat to regional and global security.

Livestock
The livestock health track provides entrepreneurs opportunities to develop or expand startups specialising in livestock health. This includes monitoring systems, preventive technologies, innovative health solutions, and streamlined treatment processes to ensure livestock sustainability and disease-free conditions. This track aims to enhance Sharjah biosecurity system and support sustainable development in livestock farming by supporting entrepreneurs and innovative projects, in addition to encouraging businesses to participate in sustainable development.

A roadmap to drive sustainable innovation in Sharjah and the UAE
Sheraa introduces two pioneering tracks aimed at fostering innovation in Sharjah’s agricultural and livestock sectors. The AgriTech track focuses on solutions like sustainable irrigation and desalination methods, addressing critical water scarcity issues. Meanwhile, the Livestock track supports startups enhancing livestock health through advanced monitoring and treatment technologies, bolstering biosecurity and sustainability. Winners stand to gain significant benefits, including AED 500,000 in grants, tailored business support, mentorship, networking opportunities, and extensive media coverage, solidifying Sheraa’s commitment to sustainable development and entrepreneurship in the region.

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After receiving entries from 22 countries from around the globe, a thorough shortlisting process has revealed an impressive array of frontrunning startups to establish their businesses within Sharjah. The companies representing 8 different nations — namely, Germany, Spain, United States of America, Hungary, Poland, Isle of Man, India and the UAE — have already raised $25.4 million collectively, and showcase a diverse selection of visionary solutions they aim to bring to Sharjah.

ASC 2023, endorsed by the United Arab Emirates Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, and in partnership with BEEAH Group and Sharjah Sustainable City, comprises two focus areas, “Transforming Waste Management” and “Achieving Net Zero” respectively, and aims to identify  feasible solutions for urban environmental challenges.

The winning startups from each partner challenge will be announced on 20th June, 2023, at the Sheraa Sustainability Forum, an event dedicated to showcasing and celebrating impactful initiatives that contribute to a greener future in the UAE and the world at large. Aligned with the nation’s environmental objectives, the forum serves as a platform for government entities, corporates, startups and academia to come together and demonstrate their commitment to driving positive change and fostering a more environmentally conscious society.

The successful startups will be awarded exclusive commercial deals valued at AED 250,000, along with the opportunity to launch their solutions in Sharjah. This will allow them to take advantage of the many incentives and benefits the emirate presents, while creating job opportunities for the highly capable talent on offer, as well as contributing to the local economy and infrastructure. Additionally, the winners will also receive comprehensive business setup support and the chance to participate in the UAE’s Year of Sustainability initiatives in the lead up to  the 28th Session of the Conference of the Parties (COP28).

5 Innovative solutions for sustainable waste management
For BEEAH Group’s “Transforming Waste Management” challenge, entrepreneurs were challenged to develop solutions that support effective on-site waste treatment and segregation and entries were received from every corner of the globe. The 5 shortlisted startups that provided impressive solutions were Clean Robotics from the USA, whose AI-driven smart recycling bin, ‘TrashBot’, eliminates human error in waste sorting, supporting accurate recycling and zero-waste facilities. From Spain, Candam Technologies SL, who specialise in affordable technology for Return and Earn initiatives, offering efficient identification and sorting of various packaging materials, contributing to a circular economy. Based in Poland, Bin-e, leverages artificial intelligence, develops smart waste bins for public spaces, automating recycling and waste management processes for more sustainable and efficient waste disposal systems.

Compocity, hailing from Hungary, presented a low-tech indoor composting solution that promotes circular economy practices and transforms food waste into nutrient-rich soil for sustainable planting and gardening. While India’s Ishitva Robotic Systems Pvt Ltd provided AI-based waste management solutions, including automated waste sorting, smart bins, and advanced AI-powered sorting technology through their ‘ishitvAI’ algorithm.

5 Breakthrough ideas to drive positive change
For Sharjah Sustainable City’s “Achieving Net Zero” challenge, startups were challenged to provide innovative solutions that cities can use to achieve a carbon neutral footprint. The 5 standout submissions included submissions from around the globe, namely, Green Future Project from the UAE, which aims to deliver a comprehensive Software-as-a-Service (SaaS) solution for ESG reporting and sustainable practices, enabling businesses to monitor, reduce, and offset their carbon footprint in real-time. Gander from the Isle of Man, an Earthshot Prize Nominee 2023, that connects retailers’ reduced-priced food with environmentally conscious shoppers through a mobile app and analytics platform, aiming to prevent food waste and drive both corporate and consumer change.

From Germany, Eevie GmbH’s solution empowers organisations to develop a climate-friendly culture and achieve sustainability goals through targeted climate campaigns utilising their SaaS platform. Nadeera Technologies LTD from the UAE, introduces “Yalla Return,” is a digital platform incentivizing proper waste sorting through rewards, integrating IoT and AI technology to enhance waste management practices. Finally from Poland, TerGo’s solution provides a comprehensive full-stack approach to carbon management, offering carbon accounting software and an app called TERbit that tracks transportation emission reductions, facilitating informed decision-making towards a greener future.

These 10 shortlisted startups have demonstrated exceptional creativity and innovation in their quest to address environmental challenges, and through their ideas not only provide sustainable solutions but also have the potential to transform industries and create a lasting impact. Each selected startup brings forth unique approaches and cutting-edge technologies, showcasing the power of entrepreneurship in driving positive change.

Najla Al Midfa, CEO of Sheraa, praised the abundance of creativity and innovation demonstrated by the participants in the Access Sharjah Challenge. She emphasised the crucial role of startups in utilising new tools, such as AI, to drive transformative progression in the world. “Entrepreneurs in today’s world possess an extraordinary wealth of creativity and a deep desire to effect positive change. Through initiatives like the Access Sharjah Challenge, we harness this potential, attracting talent to Sharjah from around the globe, and provide a platform for these remarkable creations to flourish,” Al Midfaa stated. She expressed gratitude towards the partners involved in the challenge, highlighting their unwavering support in championing these exceptional startups.

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Endorsed by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change & Environment and in partnership with BEEAH Group and Sharjah Sustainable City, emboldens entrepreneurs to turn their visions into reality while bolstering Sharjah’s standing as a global sustainability leader. Winners of ASC 2023 will receive comprehensive business setup support through a paid contract for implementation, mentorship, and recognition and the opportunity to engage in the UAE’s Year of Sustainability initiatives and showcase their ideas. The challenge offers a global stage for creative ideas and problem solving, reinforcing Sharjah’s position as a leading authority in green businesses.

Elevating entrepreneurs to meet the environmental challenges in the world
ASC 2023 consists of two categories, both of which seek achievable solutions to the environmental concerns within cities. The first category, “Achieving Net Zero,” in collaboration with Sharjah Sustainable City, sets forth the ambitious goal of enabling cities to achieve a neutral carbon footprint. It calls upon entrepreneurs to implement innovative strategies to combat the environmental impacts of urban living, while also championing concepts that inspire residents to reduce their own carbon output through sustainable consumption and behavioural change. This category stands as a testament to the power of individual actions and serves as an inspiration for cities worldwide to embrace sustainability.

The second category, “Transforming Waste Management,” in collaboration with BEEAH, envisions a future where cities exist without the burden of waste. It challenges entrepreneurs to develop solutions that support effective on-site waste treatment and segregation, empowering communities to efficiently manage waste while experiencing a seamless and effortless process. By tackling waste management practices head-on, this category revolutionises the way we perceive and interact with waste, paving the way for a waste-free environment.

Explaining the drive behind the global entrepreneurial hub, Najla Al-Midfa, CEO of Sheraa said, “At Sheraa, we recognise that entrepreneurship is a force that transcends individual enterprises, it is a catalyst for progress, disruption, and meaningful impact. Each entrepreneur who dares to challenge the status quo, who embraces uncertainty, and who fearlessly pursues their dreams is an agent of change, shaping a better future for themselves and for generations to come.”

Going on to expand on the impact of this year’s challenge, the CEO stated, “Through the Access Sharjah Challenge, we aim to enable founders with solutions to tackle issues within sustainability and build right here in Sharjah. Together with our partners Sharjah Sustainable City and Beeah, we are excited to support the incredible ideas that have been submitted this year. By creating an ecosystem that supports and empowers innovators, we can foster a culture of entrepreneurship that drives positive change and transforms lives.”

Ensuring a sustainable future for generations to come
ASC 2023 also aligns within the “We Are the Emirates 2031” vision, and represents a new step towards progressing the development process of the UAE for the next decade, highlighting its pioneering model and global position. The challenge also falls in line with the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment’s goals to strengthen cooperation and collaboration between the future industry leaders and established entities and companies concerned with environmental and municipal work to ensure the achievement of the UAE’s overall vision and goals in terms of global environment indicators.

Creating a legacy of opportunity and support
The Access Sharjah Challenge has a remarkable history of fostering entrepreneurship and catalysing innovation with global reach spanning across 7 regions of Asia, Europe, the Middle East, Africa, North America, South America and Australasia since it was inaugured in 2020.

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This flagship store in Sharjah was inaugurated by the CEO of the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), Najla Al Midfa, as well as the CEO of Alef Group, Issa Ataya.

This journey of entrepreneurship has come full circle as Nature Hedonist is a Sheraa alumnus, and by winning the Access Sharjah Challenge organised by Sheraa in partnership with the UAE Ministry of Culture and Youth, they have once again proved to be a competitive force in the market. As the retail winner, Nature Hedonist signed a two-year lease agreement with Alef group; a premiere property developer in Sharjah; obtained their trade licence to operate in the emirate, and received business setup support from Sheraa, to give them the best chance of creating a strong impact in the market.

Najla Al Midfa, CEO of Sheraa, said, “The Access Sharjah Challenge addresses one of the most critical and perennial challenges that startups face worldwide: gaining access to the market. Through this initiative, we provide guidance, support and opportunities as well as opening the door for startups to be able to connect with the right corporate and government partners and successfully operate in our thriving emirate. ”

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Held in partnership with the Ministry of Culture and Youth, the launch marks the fourth edition of Sheraa’s Access Sharjah Challenge, a platform that aims to connect startups across a wide spectrum of industries to relevant public and private entities in Sharjah, and across the UAE. The goal is to facilitate the entry of winning startups into one of the fastest-developing markets in the MENA region to realise the full potential of their businesses.

Commenting on the Access Sharjah Challenge Al Mamsha 2022, H.E. Noura bint Mohammed Al Kaabi, Minister of Culture and Youth, said “Following the success of our collaboration with Sheraa to support the cultural and creative industries in the UAE, the Ministry of Culture and Youth is keen to extend support to innovative, creative, and tech-savvy startups from across the GCC in retail and F&B sectors. Through this initiative, we hope to unlock opportunities to expand the regional ecosystem for these sectors and set them onto a sustainable growth path.”

The new edition of the competition will see Sheraa extend support to creative startups in the retail and F&B sectors and stimulate innovation in the vibrant entrepreneurship ecosystem in Sharjah. In addition to a range of support services and benefits, the top four winners in each category will be able to open retail spaces at the Food Hall and Concept Store locations at Sharjah’s Al Mamsha, a premier mixed-use development by Alef Group.

Najla Al Midfa, CEO of Sheraa, said “The new edition of Sheraa’s Access Sharjah Challenge is an enabling platform for innovative homegrown startups to enter the Sharjah market and positively contribute to two of the fastest growing sectors in the region. The AED 3 million worth support and prize pool including connections to key stakeholders will help fulfil the ambitious goals of young entrepreneurs in the region, and help them bring their creative ideas to fruition.”

The ‘Access Sharjah Challenge – Al Mamsha’, offers a generous cash prize pool of AED 500,000 with one-year rent-free spaces at Al Mamsha Food Hall and Concept Store, in addition to the prize, Alef and Sheraa will offer AED 2.5 million worth of technical support and fit-out packages. Winners will also receive business set up support and gain access to networking opportunities with potential investors. Winners of the ‘Access Sharjah Challenge – Al Mamsha’ will commit to a 10% revenue share after the first year of operations.

Applicants in the F&B sector must be a first-time homegrown local brand or an established F&B entity with a new dining concept and winners will each receive AED 100,000 in cash to complete their fit-out; waiver of one-year rent from the start date of operation; technical support with industry experts to develop a PoC, business and operational plans; and facilitation of business registration and granting of approvals. Alef Group will enhance the winner’s spaces with facilities for closed kitchen area, an open counter area, and seating area and winners can avail the opportunity to operate at Al Mamsha for a minimum period of 5 years.

Applicants in the retail categories  must  be homegrown brands and designers with unique product lines or concepts in a wide range of merchandises. Preference will be given to retail brands that first established their presence in Sharjah. Winners will each receive AED 25,000 in cash to complete their fit-out. Alef Group will provide a designated retail island, truss frame for ceilings, separate lighting, and eye-catching digital display totem, amongst others, and winners can choose to operate at Al Mamsha for a minimum period of 2 years.

Issa Ataya, CEO of Alef Group said “Supporting young entrepreneurial talents is a priority for Alef Group as cooperating with these pioneers not only allows it to benefit from their talents and capabilities in opening high-quality outlets, especially in the retail and food and beverage sectors, but also ensures the provision of a better shopping experience through talented Emiratis and UAE residents. We aim to motivate entrepreneurs to continue launching innovative ideas and projects that enhance the attraction and quality of life in the emirate.”

Applications for ‘Access Sharjah Challenge – Al Mamsha’ close on February 20. Following a process of internal shortlisting, around 10-15 of the most promising startups in each sector will be provided technical support from March 7-24 to finalise their pitches and concepts. The Pitch Day, later in March, will see shortlisted applicants pitch their unique ideas to a judging committee. Winners will be announced in April.

Candidates can apply for the challenge by visiting ASC (sheraa.ae).

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