Sharjah Launches Seal the Deal to Back University Startups
SRTI Park aims to create a science park that supports research and development.
The Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park (SRTI Park), along with the American University of Sharjah (AUS), Invest in Sharjah, and the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), has launched 'Seal the Deal,' a platform for student-led startups to pitch to business leaders and secure initial investments.[1]
'Seal the Deal' aims to provide startups with investment opportunities while allowing them to receive guidance from experienced investors, helping refine their solutions and improve their chances for future success. The program features startups from Sheraa’s Startup Dojo+ youth incubation program.
This inaugural event included 28 startups from over 15 nationalities, with a 50% female participation rate. These startups underwent an eight-week training program, equipping them with essential entrepreneurial skills and real-world business knowledge.
In total, the participating startups raised an initial commitment of AED 520,000 ($141,574). The startups showcased at the inaugural ‘Seal the Deal’ included:
- Ooladi: An end-to-end parenting technology solution.
- LayoverBuddy: A travel tech platform for customized layover experiences.
- Eshara: An AI-powered Arabic sign language platform.
- Cicero: An AI-driven public speaking platform.
- NRSAssist: A healthcare monitoring system with predictive analysis.
- BulBul: A platform for teaching conversational Arabic.
SRTI Park aims to create a science park that supports research, development, and enterprise activities through collaboration among industry, government, and academia. Meanwhile, Sheraa has supported over 18,000 youth through its programs, helping incubate over 180 ventures that have generated significant revenue and created jobs in the region.