The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) recently concluded its Access Sharjah Challenge (ASC) 2024 with an impactful Pitch Day event at Sheraa HQ, focusing on the crucial themes of Agritech and Livestock Health. This year’s challenge drew an unprecedented 2,207 applications from around the world, showcasing the global interest in innovative solutions for pressing agricultural issues. From this extensive pool, 11 startups were shortlisted, representing a diverse array of ideas from over 24 countries across all six habitable continents.
During the Pitch Day, these startups presented their Proof of Concept (POC) solutions to a panel of distinguished judges, each bringing unique expertise to the evaluation process. The stakes were high, with two startups set to be awarded contracts worth Dhs250,000 each, alongside ongoing mentorship and support from Sheraa and its ecosystem partners. This backing includes a six-month implementation period, aimed at translating innovative concepts into real-world applications that can significantly enhance Sharjah’s agricultural landscape.
Sheraa’s CEO, Sara Abdelaziz Al Nuaimi, emphasized the organization’s commitment to empowering entrepreneurs who tackle global challenges. She noted that the ASC 2024 aligns with Sheraa’s newly established Centers of Excellence, fostering a culture of innovation that can transform pioneering ideas into sustainable solutions. The collaboration with the Department of Agriculture and Livestock, endorsed by the UAE Ministry of Climate Change and Environment, highlights a strategic focus on sustainable agricultural practices and livestock health, critical areas for the region’s food security and environmental sustainability.
The AgriTech track specifically addresses issues such as water scarcity and the need for sustainable farming practices, while the Livestock Health track seeks innovative approaches to enhance biosecurity and ensure the sustainability of livestock farming. These themes are not only timely but essential as the UAE and the broader region strive to develop resilient agricultural systems amid climate change challenges.
The event also featured a comprehensive corporate innovation training program led by senior representatives from the Department of Agriculture and Livestock. This initiative provided the shortlisted startups with valuable insights, ensuring their solutions are tailored to meet the specific needs of the government body, thereby fostering a collaborative approach to innovation.
The panel of judges included key figures such as Razan Al Hammadi, Director of Green Development, and Jamal Al Suwaidi, Director of Digital Transformation, among others. Their involvement underscores the importance of integrating expertise from various sectors to evaluate and nurture entrepreneurial ventures that promise to drive sustainable development.
The presence of influential entities like the Emirates Development Bank and local universities further emphasizes the collaborative spirit within Sharjah’s entrepreneurial ecosystem. Their engagement signals a shared vision for transforming innovative ideas into impactful solutions that can benefit not just the emirate, but also serve as a model for other regions facing similar agricultural challenges.
As the selected startups prepare to implement their solutions, the implications of the Pitch Day extend beyond immediate financial support. This initiative represents a significant step towards establishing Sharjah as a hub for agricultural innovation, with the potential to influence practices on a global scale. The ASC 2024 is not just a competition; it is a catalyst for change, encouraging a new generation of entrepreneurs to address the critical issues of our time through creativity and technology.
