Your growth

launchpad

A six-month made-for-you program to help your venture scale

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a program for ambitious founders

We understand that building a successful startup isn't a sprint; it's a marathon. That's why our six-month customized program is structured to provide a balance of guidance and flexibility.  

We'll equip you with a personalized playbook to fuel your journey towards product-market fit. 

  • Participate in an equity-free program with no participation charges

  • Obtain a free 1-year business license and access to co-working spaces in Sharjah

  • Benefit from warm introductions to Sheraa's Centres of Excellence (CoE) partners, and investors 

  • Receive 25 hours of personalized guidance from 30+ experienced mentors with a growth-focused playbook

  • Join Sheraa’s vibrant entrepreneurial community

  • Enjoy a week-long experience in Sharjah with a showcase at the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival

  • Hire skilled talent from Sharjah universities

  • Get exclusive access to AED 3M+ value in software perks

Program offerings

Forget generic workshops. We provide a personalized roadmap tailored to your startup’s unique goals. This isn’t just another incubator program; it’s your launchpad to success.

sCALING

Unlock access to Sheraa’s Centers of Excellence (COE) partners and potential customers, helping you gain the traction you need.

From contracts to internal operations, we help you scale your team and operations efficiently and effective.

Securing

Expert guidance in pitch preparation, investor relations, and securing strategic investments.

From contracts to term sheets, we support you on the entire process.

supporting

Meet, network and collaborate with
like-minded people who share your motivation and drive.

Whether you need a co-working space, studio or software credits to work with, we've got you covered.

the sharjah startup studio (s3) experience

Upon acceptance into our program, you’ll gain access to 6 months of support through the following:

advisory credits

Gain access to personalized 1:1 sessions with our on-demand experts, drawn from a roster of over 30 specialists in various subject matters.

The goal of these sessions is that EIRs will assist the founders through advisory on strategies to best achieve their goals.

kpi and progrss tracking

Throughout the program, founders must take part in bi-weekly sessions with their designated EIR and Sheraa staff.

These are 1:1 check-ins with each company to provide guidance/advice and ensure the founders are on track with their goals. 

access to resources

Unlock a full suite of resources, from software perks and co-working spaces to exclusive customer and investor introductions, ensuring you stay focused on what truly matters—building and scaling your startup.

experience Sharjah

Showcase your startup at the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF), pitch at roadshows and demo days with partner organizations, participate in an in-person leadership retreat, and immerse yourself in the Sharjah landscape to scale your startup from the heart of the UAE.

application criteria

Scalable business model driven by tech-enabled solutions.

Ready for the market with early-customer traction and revenue generation.

Committed to operating and expanding within Sharjah and across the UAE.

Equipped with a dedicated full-time founder and development support team.

Operating within priority sectors: EdTech, Sustainability, Manufacturing, or Creative Industries.

Led by coachable, collaborative leaders open to feedback and guidance.

program timeline

  • Applications Open

    23 SEP 2024

  • Application Closes

    24 NOV 2024

  • Shortlisting

    ONGOING; TILL APPLICATION CLOSES

  • Cohort Announcement

    28 NOV 2024

  • Program Launch

    9 DEC 2024

  • Showcase at SEF 2025

    FEB 2025

  • Full Program Duration

    JAN - JUN 2025

  • Sharjah Experience

    FEB 2025
    (2 WEEKS)

  • Demo Day

    JUN 2025
    (IN-PERSON)

Meet your On-demand Advisors

When you need expert guidance, our 30+ professionals are here to help. Whether it’s navigating legal complexities, optimizing your hiring process, or understanding the regulations, our in-house subject matter experts provide personalized sessions tailored to your startup's needs. 

SCALE FASTER WITH OUR PERKS

We have negotiated over $1 million worth of exclusive deals and discounts on the tools and services that startups need. From cloud computing to email marketing, we've got you covered. 

AED3m+

IN PERKS VALUE

  • Amazon's cloud services platform

  • Easily store and organize your data

  • Manage your online payments

  • From questions to clarity using AI

  • Organize teamwork and increase productivity

  • A no-code solution for workflow automation

  • Create powerful websites, without having to code

  • Unleash the future of intelligent technology

  • Your suite of marketing and advertising tools

  • Be seen where your customers are searching

  • A complete suite for employee productivity

  • CRM, marketing automation & customer service

  • Empowering your cloud journey with Microsoft Azure

  • Strengthen relationships with your customers

our CENTERS OF EXCELLENCE (CoE) partners

Sharjah is a global hub for innovation, and our Centers of Excellence are at its heart. We focus on four of Sharjah’s priority industry sectors; Sustainability, Advanced Manufacturing, Creative Industries, and EdTech. Each COE connects startups with a powerful network of strategic partners, industry leaders, and investors.  

  • UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Manufacturing

  • UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment

  • UAE Ministry of Culture

  • Etihad Credit Insurance

  • DMZ

  • Sharjah Private Education Authority

  • Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry

  • Invest in Sharjah

  • Microsoft

  • EDT & Partners

  • BEEAH Group

  • Sharjah Performing Arts Academy

  • Sharjah Sustainable City

  • Emirates Development Bank

  • American University of Sharjah

  • American University of Sharjah

  • Homegrown CPG

and more…

WHy sharjah?

Welcome to the heartbeat of innovation – our city is the perfect canvas for your success story. Be part of our dynamic community filled with go-getters, entrepreneurs, and savvy investors. Here, your ventures will not just survive but thrive, thanks to an environment that values progress and prosperity.

The emirate comprises Sharjah City, the Central Region including Mleiha, Al Badayer, Al Dhaid, and the East Coast including Khorfakkan, Kalba, Dibba Al Hisn.

Sharjah offers businesses a low-cost working environment, and access to unparalleled talent and support at the highest level.

  • Sharjah is home to more than 60,000 SMEs and start-ups across its six free zones and 33 industrial zones. It is a hub for innovation, with the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa) providing support including incubators and accelerator programmes as well as the annual Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival, an event that brings together the world’s most promising innovators.

  • As a popular destination for expats, Sharjah boasts a young, diverse, talented, and multicultural population.

  • It is easy and quick to set up a business, with an abundance of industry-specific free zones and support from Sharjah Investors Services Centre (SAEED).

  • Sharjah is strategically located between Dubai and the burgeoning northern emirates, and is the only emirate which borders all six of the other UAE emirates.

    Sharjah also offers easy access by air, sea, and land to the GCC and beyond.

  • Sharjah Airport connects the city to the GCC, Europe, Africa, and Asia. This international airport is home to the region’s leading low-cost airline - Air Arabia.

  • Sharjah is a future-ready city thanks to its world-class Innovation Cluster. This area houses University City and Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park, which together combine industry, government, universities, research labs.

© Visit Sharjah, Your Sharjah, and Invest in Sharjah

frequently asked questions

If you have any further questions, please feel free to contact us by using the link here

  • Yes! While S3 prioritizes startups in the Creative Industries, EdTech, Manufacturing, and Sustainability sectors, we welcome applications from startups in other industries that offer solutions relevant to the priority sectors. 

    For example, if your startup develops software solutions for advanced manufacturing, or creates tools for sustainable practices, your offering aligns with our focus areas. 

    If your startup is not selected, you can still apply to join our network through Sheraa Community here.   

  • The next cohort begins on December 9th, 2024. Applications are open now and close on November 24, 2024. You can apply by clicking on 'Apply Here' on this page.

  • The S3 program is a 6-month journey designed to empower you to drive your startup's success.

    You're in the driver's seat, and we're here as your co-pilot, providing guidance and support along the way. 

    To make the most of this partnership, we ask for a minimum commitment of 3 hours bi-weekly.

    This allows us to stay updated on your progress, identify areas where we can provide additional support, and ensure you're on track to achieve your goals. 

  • While we value flexibility and understand the demands of running a startup, we also believe in the power of in-person connection and collaboration. Therefore, we require your presence in the UAE for essential parts of the program, including the onboarding session, demo days, and showcase opportunities.

    This will allow you to fully immerse yourself in the Sharjah ecosystem, network with key players, and showcase your startup to potential investors and partners. 

  • No, S3 does not take equity or charge a fee to participate in the program.

  • S3 stands out due to its personalized made-for-you approach, focus on Sharjah's priority sectors, global reach, local expertise, and strong emphasis on community building.

  • Yes, modifications are permitted by submitting a new application (the last submitted application will be reviewed). 

    Please ensure any changes are submitted by November 24, 2024.

  • The 20 selected startups should be prepared to enter a formal agreement outlining the terms of participation and company licensing in Sharjah (at ~AED 3,000/ $820 per year). 

    Sheraa will cover the first-year licensing fee at the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP) as part of the program perks.

    You are required to obtain a business license in Sharjah for at least two years, with access to additional opportunities post-program. 

  • We commit to responding to every application. You will hear from us by the deadline, but we may contact you sooner as we review applications on a rolling basis.

  • Sheraa provides ongoing support including networking opportunities, further business development, and potential scaling pathways within the UAE and GCC markets.

APPLICATION CLOSED

  • The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) has been instrumental in creating a seamless journey for entrepreneurs in Sharjah, building a holistic ecosystem for founders that guides them from the idea stage through to building their prototypes and taking them to market. Sheraa has incubated the growth of over 180 ventures that have generated $248MM+ in revenue, raised $171MM+ in investments, and created 1,900+ jobs.

  • S3 ia a six-month, founder-first program designed to help your startup scale through personalized support, expert mentorship, and access to strategic partnerships.

  • Here’s a sneak peek into the six-month journey that will take your startup to new heights:

    • Bi-weekly 1:1 check-ins to keep you on track and accountable

    • Expert advisory sessions when you need them

    • Access to tools, spaces, and networks that matter

    • Introductions to investors, partners and customers – to help you scale

    • Showcase your startup at SEF

  • The next step is closer than you think!

    Apply: Submit your application through our website. This is your first step towards your application.

    Internal Assessment: The Sheraa team reviews each application, responding to all applicants. Those whose applications don't align with the program's criteria will be offered an alternative pathway.

    Screening Call: Founders who meet the review are invited to a 20-minute screening call.  During this call, showcase the product through a live demo and prepare to answer any questions about the startup.

    Deep-dive Call: Selected startups advance to a deep-dive session focusing on four key areas:

    • Solution

    • Business Model

    • Legal

    • Financial


    Acceptance & Onboarding: After evaluations, startups demonstrating exceptional potential receive acceptance and are onboarded.

    (Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis; apply today!)

you’re in great company

Sheraa's startups are changing the UAE tech landscape.

  • Changing how we collect and analyze data

  • Changing how we bank

  • Changing how we work

  • Changing how we recycle

  • Changing the way how we shop groceries

  • Changing the landscape of gifting

  • Changing how we see the world

  • Changing how we buy and sell real estate

  • Changing how restaurants work

COMMUNITY

Our Startups

SEF

programs

S3 Program

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