SHARJAH: In a bid to support and encourage entrepreneurial ingenuity across the region, 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 3-4 February, this event promises to be a focal point for founders attending the festival.
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 materialis
e, driving progress in the entrepreneurial landscape.’
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 entrep
reneurs 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.
Source: Emirates News Agency