11 startups compete in final stage of Access Sharjah Challenge 2024

The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) concluded its Access Sharjah Challenge (ASC) 2024 with a Pitch Day at Sheraa's headquarters, focusing on AgriTech and Livestock Health.

The event highlighted innovations from 11 shortlisted startups, selected from a record 2,207 global applications representing over 24 countries across six continents.

During the event, participants presented their Proof of Concept (POC) solutions to a panel of judges. Two startups will be awarded AED250,000 each in contracts to implement their solutions during a six-month period, benefiting from continued support from Sheraa and its ecosystem partners.

Sheraa CEO, Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, emphasised the initiative’s mission, stating, “Sheraa is dedicated to empowering innovative entrepreneurs who tackle today’s pressing challenges. Through our partnerships and newly established Centers of Excellence, we aim to transform pioneering ideas into impactful solutions that contribute to a sustainable future for all. Sharjah is poised to lead advancements across key sectors, with the Access Sharjah Challenge providing a platform for entrepreneurs to implement proactive solutions.”

In its sixth edition, ASC collaborated with the Department of Agriculture and Livestock (DAL) as its challenge partner, with endorsement from the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment (MOCCAE). The themes of AgriTech and Livestock Health were supported by sponsors such as the Sharjah Chamber of Commerce and Industry, Sultan Bin Ali Al Owais Real Estate, and Al Ghanim Holding.

Ahead of the Pitch Day, DAL conducted an intensive corporate innovation training program, ensuring startups could align their solutions with the organisation’s needs. The AgriTech track addressed critical issues such as water scarcity and sustainable farming, while the Livestock Health track focused on biosecurity and livestock sustainability, aligning with Sheraa's Center of Excellence for Sustainability.

The judging panel included 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 represented by its CEO, Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, along with other senior officials.

The event also featured key entities such as Emirates Development Bank, AlDhaid University, Sharjah Sustainable City, DU, the University of Sharjah, and the US Consulate, demonstrating collective support for Sharjah’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.

The Pitch Day marked the final stage of ASC 2024, paving the way for selected startups to implement their solutions. Sheraa reaffirmed its commitment to building an entrepreneurial ecosystem that drives sustainable innovations, bolsters the economy, and fosters long-term prosperity in the region.