Sharjah Startup Studio (S3) has opened its 2025 applications. The programme is run by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa). It targets UAE-based founders working in EdTech, sustainability, creative industries, and manufacturing.
Programme Overview
Applications opened on 7 July 2025 and will close on 7 September 2025. Selected founders will join the next cohort in late October. The programme runs for four months. It ends with a demo day at the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival on 1 February 2026.
The studio does not take equity. Sheraa may offer a revenue-share‑based pre‑seed investment. Founders retain full ownership.
Startups accepted into the programme receive:
- One year of free Sharjah business licensing
- Office space at the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park (SRTIP)
- Access to mentors, experts, and investors
- Business support from Sheraa’s Centres of Excellence partners
- Visibility at SEF and other showcase events
Startups must be based in the UAE. Sheraa prefers founders located in Sharjah. Applicants must show traction, operate full-time, and have a scalable, tech-enabled model. At least one technical or operations co-founder is required.
The 2024 cohort included 19 startups selected from 2,300 applications. Those startups raised a combined $19.3 million and generated $21.9 million in revenue.
Why It Matters
S3 is one of the region’s few equity-free venture-building programmes. It provides structured support to help UAE-based founders scale. Backed by government and private partners, it builds local startups with global potential.
Sheraa’s founder-first approach removes barriers for early-stage teams. With a strong focus on sustainability, creativity, and industrial innovation, the programme aligns with national economic goals.
UAE founders can apply now via Sheraa’s official portal. The deadline is 7 September 2025. Cohort announcements will follow in mid-October.
