The Sheraa Accelerator program, based at the American University of Sharjah, has expanded its scope outside the UAE. It is now inviting innovative, early stage startups to apply for its second cycle. Najla Al Midfa, a general manager at Sheraa, commented that the internationalization and the support of entrepreneurship are a part of the UAE’s Vision 2021 and the UAE’s transition to a knowledge-based economy:
We look forward to building a competitive second cohort, featuring innovative ventures that are working on solving pressing challenges across all sectors. Sheraa is committed to supporting teams that possess the drive and ambition to scale their disruptive business models and develop them into success stories with global socio-economic impact.
During the first cycle of its program, Sheraa has assisted over ten startups. Juxtapiece, one of the most successful companies Sheraa monitors, has expanded its client base significantly. It now works with Smart Dubai, Bee’ah, and Sharaj Investment and Development Authority (Shurooq). Tayar collaborates with the Sharjah Police and the UAE’s Ministry of Health. Yalla Pickup managed to raise over Dh1 million in funding, proving Sheraa’s excellent reputation as a startup accelerator.
Interested parties have time until August 31 to submit their application packages for the second cycle. The three-month program starts in October this year. The selected startups will receive equity-free funding of up to USD 10,000. In addition to that, they will also benefit from a free Sharjah-based trade license, rent-free office at Sheraa’s premises, legal help, as well as mentorship.