Sharjah’s “Seal the Deal 2025” Initiative Empowers Next-Gen Innovators, Attracts Over AED 4 Million in Investment
The second edition of the “Seal the Deal 2025” initiative has concluded with outstanding success, reaffirming its mission to strengthen entrepreneurship and forge valuable connections between innovative founders, investors, and business leaders. The event was graced by H.H. Sheikha Bodour bint Sultan Al Qasimi, Chairperson of the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park, and was held during the second day of the Sharjah Investment Forum and Global Investment Conference 2025.
A total of nine start-ups took part in the initiative, each given the opportunity to deliver a concise five-minute pitch followed by discussions with a high-profile judging panel. These promising early-stage companies succeeded in attracting investment commitments exceeding AED 4 million, underscoring the initiative’s impact on Sharjah’s booming start-up ecosystem.
The Seal the Deal 2025 initiative was organised by the Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park, working in partnership with the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Centre (Sheraa), Invest in Sharjah, the American University of Sharjah, and the University of Sharjah. The event highlighted the emirate’s rising profile as a regional innovation and entrepreneurship hub.
Building on the strong foundation of its first edition, this year’s programme expanded its scope to include start-ups led by students and faculty members, alongside other early-stage ventures operating in Sharjah. The initiative reflects the spirit of innovation and entrepreneurial energy that is shaping the emirate’s future economic landscape.
The programme is tailored for start-ups working in cutting-edge sectors such as artificial intelligence, robotics, and sustainability. Participating ventures presented their projects before a panel of investors, who evaluated their feasibility and market potential.
Hussain Al Mahmoudi, CEO of Sharjah Research, Technology and Innovation Park, said: “The Seal the Deal initiative has evolved into a unique platform that brings together academia, investors and the private sector to transform scientific research and innovation into sustainable business ventures. Sharjah’s collaborative model is an inspiring experience that is creating a real impact across sectors and communities.”
With its commitment to nurturing entrepreneurship and bridging the gap between research, innovation, and private enterprise, Sharjah continues to position itself as a vibrant regional powerhouse for start-up growth and technological advancement.
Team V.4-EM-UAE
