In a bid to support and encourage entrepreneurial ingenuity across the nation and the region, especially in the youth, the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF) has unveiled details about its highly anticipated ‘Startup Pitch’ competition. Scheduled to be held during the festival held at the Sharjah Research Technology and Innovation Park on February 3-4, this event promises to be a focal point for founders attending the festival.

True to tradition, the festival, organised by Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa), is set to empower the next generation of change-makers as 12 visionary entrepreneurs compete for a share of the impressive 200,000 AED prize pool.

Commenting on the announcement, Sheraa CEO, Najla Al Midfa stated, “As we gear up for SEF 2024, the Startup Pitch competition continues to shape the narrative of entrepreneurship. This competition drives innovation and ambition within our ecosystem at Sheraa, encapsulating collaboration, learning, and growth. Our mission is to foster an environment where ideas flourish, and aspirations materialise, driving progress in the entrepreneurial landscape.”

Supporting entrepreneurs in a diverse number of industries

The high-stakes competition offers a chance to secure a 50,000 AED grant in 4 industry-specific tracks supported by sponsors committed to propelling innovation and excellence in their sectors. In each track, startups have a unique opportunity to articulate their plans with precision and leave an indelible mark on investors, the audience and the panel of seasoned judges.

• The Tourism Track, designed to revolutionise the tourism sector and sponsored by Sharjah Tourism and Commerce Development Authority, provides a platform for startups with innovative solutions in travel and hospitality.

• The Creative Economy Track, supported by Sharjah Media City (SHAMS), is focused on the intersection of creativity and business emphasising the economic impact of creative enterprises.

• The Impact Track, proudly sponsored by Sharjah Business Women Council (SBWC), will allow startups active in the sustainability, social impact or education industry led by women entrepreneurs to showcase their visionary startups.

• The Tech Track, sponsored by Emaar, is tailored for startups at the forefront of technological innovation and will provide a launchpad for groundbreaking ideas within the rapidly evolving industry.

As the region’s largest celebration of entrepreneurship, SEF is set to go bigger with its revolutionary approach in 2024. Featuring nine curated zones aligned with SEF 2024’s key pillars of ‘Impact’, ‘Founders’, ‘Community’, and ‘Creativity’, this festival is a platform for founders, investors, and industry leaders to connect, learn, and collaborate on the latest opportunities, shaping the future of the local ecosystem.

In the lead-up to SEF 2024, entrepreneurs, investors, and enthusiasts are urged to seize this unique opportunity. Join the movement, seize the moment, and be part of the transformative journey where innovation, collaboration, and dreams converge to shape the future of entrepreneurship. For more information and to register for the Startup Pitch, visit https://sharjahef.com/apply//.