This opportunity should be of interest to every global start-up and entrepreneur looking to benefit from one of the UAE's flagship accelerator programs.
The second edition of Sheraa's accelerator program is now accepting applications from UAE-based and international entrepreneurs with early-stage ventures.
Based out of the American University of Sharjah, Sheraa - meaning sail - is the official entrepreneurship center of the emirate and runs this accelerator program with a focus on scaling innovative, high-growth ventures that drive economic diversification, and job creation.
In its second year running, it's once again supported by Air Arabia, Bee’ah, and Crescent Enterprises.
Here are 11 reasons why every global start-up must apply for this opportunity in Sharjah:
1. Free business license
The successful applicants will be given a free Sharjah-based business license which will allow them to legally operate in the UAE.
2. Expert mentoring
You will receive help, mentoring, advice, and much more from some of the leading experts in the industry.
3. Free office space
Free office space at the Sheraa Hub will be made available to the winning teams.
4. Free exhibition space
Hardworking entrepreneurs will also be given free exhibition space at major conferences, such as GITEX, STEP, and ARABNET.
5. Free marketing support
You will also get free marketing support from leading PR agencies who will help you succeed.
6. Free legal advice
This can normally be very costly, however, Sheraa is offering free legal advice to the lucky winners.
7. Access to government and private sector contracts
You will be given access to major government and private sector contracts in Sharjah and the UAE.
8. Introduction to leading investors
The successful teams will join a three-month training program in October. The program will end with a demo day, where entrepreneurs will pitch to seasoned investors, partners, and key clients.
9. 150,000 USD worth of business services from leading companies
This is simply too good to miss! 150,000 USD worth of business services from some of the world's leading companies.
10. Equity-free investment
Yes, that's right, you will get all the support you need in addition to a maximum of 10,000 USD and still retain 100% of your business.
11. Lastly, apart from all the free stuff, Sharjah is just awesome!
Sharjah stands out as the cultural capital of the UAE and the Gulf nations. It represents the essence of Arabian lifestyle and Islamic culture through its restored heritage sites, mosques, and traditional old souqs.
In 1998, Sharjah was named the Cultural Capital of the Arab World by UNESCO. The city has kept the spirit of its history alive by incorporating tradition into every aspect of contemporary development.
The result is a vibrant, modern emirate that simultaneously looks forward to a bright future as it pays tribute to its history.
The official application deadline is August 31, so hurry up and don't miss out on this amazing opportunity!