Submit Applications for Access Sharjah Challenge 2025

The Access Sharjah Challenge (ASC) invites global startups to collaborate in shaping solutions for high-impact, real-world challenges within Sharjah’s priority sectors. As Sheraa’s flagship market access program, ASC connects participating startups with key stakeholders, including regulators, industry leaders, and decision-makers, providing a platform to pilot innovative solutions and drive meaningful impact across the UAE.

Focus Areas

• Future-Ready Skills Challenge:
  • Curriculum-to-Competency Alignment: Mapping learning outcomes to real-world skills.
  • Empowering Educators: Providing training and resources to integrate future-ready skills into the classroom.
  • Skills Assessment: Tools to track 21st-century competencies.
  • Real-World Exposure: Connecting students with career pathways, mentors, and applied learning opportunities.
• Arabic in Early Childhood Challenge:
  • Early Language Development: Strengthening Arabic speaking, listening, and vocabulary in young learners.
  • Cultural Content Integration: Embedding Arabic content and cultural elements into daily activities.
  • Gamified Solutions: Creating Arabic-first play environments that support joyful learning.
  • Parental Engagement: Enabling families to reinforce Arabic learning at home.
  • Empowering Arabic Educators: Supporting teachers with tools and training to deliver Arabic in engaging ways.

Why Apply?

• AED 250,000 (~USD 68,000) Proof-of-Concept (POC) contract with Sharjah education regulators (SPEA and SEA)
• Direct access to the Sharjah market, facilitated by Sheraa – your gateway to the UAE and the wider MENA region
• Comprehensive startup support, including mentorship, legal setup, and product localization
• $1M+ in service value – co-working spaces, tech perks, software discounts, and essential growth tools via Sheraa’s startup support network
• Showcase your startup to governments, corporates, investors, and ecosystem leaders at the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2026
• Showcase your solution at the 5th edition of the Sharjah International Summit on Improvement in Education, taking place from 14 to 15 February 2026.

Eligibility Criteria

• Startups ready for scaling, ideally at Series A or B funding stages with an adequate team size.
• Committed to establishing a significant presence in Sharjah and expanding across the UAE.
• Proven track record of successful corporate/government collaborations.
• Offering customizable, market-ready solutions adaptable to diverse requirements.
• Focused on enhancing the quality, accessibility, and impact of education.
• Driven to make a lasting impact and dedicated to a sustainable future.

For more information, visit Sheraa.