The SEF Startup Competition, organized by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), is a key UAE-based pitch competition targeting seed and early-stage startups. It focuses on four sector tracks: EdTech, Sustainability, Creative Industries, and Tech & Industry 4.0, offering AED 50,000 grants per track and potential investor funding up to AED 500,000. The application process requires submitting a pitch deck, company profile, and video introduction by a specified deadline. The competition provides startups with exposure to investors, expert mentorship, and the chance to pitch live at the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival, making it an important funding and networking platform for emerging startups in the UAE.
Typical Funding Amount: The SEF Startup Competition offers AED 50,000 grants per sector track (AED 200,000 total) and provides additional investor funding opportunities up to AED 500,000. ([sheraa.ae](https://sheraa.ae/sef-2025s-startup-pitch-competition-to-offer-aed-700000-in-grants-and-funding-for-bold-ideas-and-innovative-solutions))
Funding Amount Range: AED 50,000 grants per sector track, with total grants of AED 200,000 and potential investor funding opportunities up to AED 500,000
Time to Funding: Approximately 1 to 2 weeks after the live pitch event, which occurs shortly after the application deadline. The application deadline is January 26, 2025, and the live pitch event at the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival is from February 1 to 2, 2025, making the total timeline from application to funding decision about 1 to 2 weeks after early February.
The application process for the SEF Startup Competition organized by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) is as follows:
This process ensures a rigorous evaluation and provides startups with valuable exposure and funding opportunities within the UAE entrepreneurial ecosystem.
The SEF Startup Competition is open to market-ready startups that have early customer traction and are generating revenue. Eligible startups should focus on solutions that address real challenges and bring meaningful impact, particularly in the sectors of EdTech, Sustainability, Creative Industries, and Tech & Industry 4.0. The competition seeks startups with strong, diverse teams and scalable, tech-enabled solutions that demonstrate a viable and scalable business model. Startups must be prepared to present a pitch deck, company profile, and video introduction as part of the application process. The competition is primarily targeted at seed and early-stage startups based in the UAE, but applications are open to founders worldwide. The application period typically opens in early January and closes in late January, with shortlisted startups pitching live at the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival in early February. Winners compete for AED 50,000 grants per sector track and potential additional funding opportunities up to AED 500,000, along with exposure to investors and expert mentorship.
For seed-stage startups applying to the SEF Startup Competition, success hinges on a well-prepared, compelling pitch and thorough application materials. Founders should focus on clearly articulating the problem their startup addresses and their unique solution, demonstrating early traction such as user engagement or pilot results to show momentum rather than absolute revenue. The pitch deck must be concise, visually engaging, and cover key aspects including the problem, solution, market opportunity, business model, competitive advantage, and a strong founding team with relevant expertise. Including metrics that highlight growth potential and market validation is critical. The video introduction should be authentic and succinct, showcasing the founders' passion, vision, and the startup's impact potential. Preparation should include practicing the pitch to confidently communicate value proposition and business potential. Understanding the competition's sector tracks (EdTech, Sustainability, Creative Industries, Technology & Industry 4.0) and tailoring the pitch to align with these themes enhances relevance. Founders should also leverage the mentorship and networking opportunities provided by the competition to refine their approach and build investor relationships. Submitting a polished company profile and meeting all application requirements by the deadline is essential. Overall, seed startups should emphasize innovation, team strength, early validation, and clear growth plans to maximize their chances of winning grants and attracting investor funding through the SEF Startup Competition.
| Feature | Description | Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Competition Name | SEF Startup Competition | Prestigious pitch competition organized by Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) and SEF | Highly competitive with limited slots (16 startups shortlisted) |
| Target Stage | Seed and early-stage startups | Focused on startups at seed and early stages, ideal for new ventures | Not suitable for later-stage or scaling companies |
| Sector Tracks | EdTech, Sustainability, Creative Industries, Tech & Industry 4.0 | Diverse sector tracks allow startups from multiple innovative fields to participate | Limited to these four sectors only |
| Funding Amount | AED 50,000 grant per sector track; total AED 200,000 in grants; potential investor funding up to AED 500,000 | Provides non-dilutive grant funding and access to significant investor funding opportunities | Grant amount per startup is moderate; investor funding not guaranteed |
| Application Process | Submission of pitch deck, company profile, and video introduction via competition website | Clear application requirements help startups prepare effectively | Requires quality pitch materials and video, which may be resource-intensive for some startups |
| Selection Process | Panel of judges and investors shortlist 16 startups (4 per track) for live pitch and Q&A at SEF event | Live pitching offers exposure to investors, media, and mentors | Only a small number of applicants get shortlisted |
| Additional Benefits | Exposure to investors, expert mentorship, live presentation at Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival | Valuable networking, mentorship, and visibility opportunities | Competition timing and preparation can be demanding |
| Eligibility Criteria | Seed and early-stage startups in UAE and internationally | Open to diverse startups with innovative solutions | May have geographic or sector-specific eligibility restrictions |
| Stage-Specific Tips | Tailor pitch to sector track, focus on innovation and scalability potential, prepare strong pitch materials | Helps startups maximize chances by aligning with investor interests and competition focus | Requires strategic preparation and understanding of investor expectations |
| Summary | SEF Startup Competition is a key funding and networking platform for seed startups in UAE, offering grants, mentorship, and investor exposure | Combines funding, mentorship, and visibility in a single platform | Highly competitive, requires strong preparation and quality application materials |
The SEF Startup Competition, organized by Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), is a premier opportunity for seed and early-stage startups in the UAE to gain funding, mentorship, and investor exposure. Founders should consider the following actionable guidance to maximize their success:
By strategically preparing and leveraging the SEF Startup Competition, UAE seed-stage founders can accelerate growth, secure critical funding, and build lasting investor relationships essential for scaling their ventures in the region.
The Make it in the Emirates Startup Pitch Competition is a UAE government initiative by the Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology targeting seed-stage startups (TRL 3-9) in AI and advanced technology sectors. It offers startups a platform to pitch innovative ideas, receive mentorship, and connect with industry partners and investors. Winners gain monetary prizes and opportunities for industrial collaboration, making it a vital funding and growth opportunity for early-stage tech startups in the UAE's innovation ecosystem.
Typical Funding Amount: The Make it in the Emirates Startup Pitch Competition typically awards prize money to winners with amounts of AED 100,000 for first place, AED 70,000 for second place, and AED 50,000 for third place to help scale and grow their businesses.
Funding Amount Range: The Make it in the Emirates Startup Pitch Competition awards monetary prizes to winners, with first place receiving AED 100,000, second place AED 70,000, and third place AED 50,000.
Time to Funding: The average timeline from application to funding decision for the Make it in the Emirates Startup Pitch Competition is approximately 1 to 1.5 months. The application deadline is April 15, 2025, and the competition pitch days, where winners are announced, are May 20-21, 2025.
The competition is open to seed-stage startups based in the UAE with Technology Readiness Levels (TRL) 3 to 9. (moiat.gov.ae) Eligible startups must focus on AI and advanced technology sectors including Manufacturing & Industry 4.0, Healthcare and Biotechnology, Sustainability and Environmental Tech, Cybersecurity, and Space-Tech. (moiat.gov.ae) Applicants should present innovative, scalable, and sustainable solutions with significant market potential and alignment with the UAE national agenda. (moiat.gov.ae) Applications must be submitted by April 15, 2025, with pitching scheduled for May 20–21, 2025. (moiat.gov.ae) Winners receive monetary prizes and opportunities for industrial collaboration, supported by the UAE Ministry of Industry and Advanced Technology. (moiat.gov.ae)
For seed-stage startups aiming to succeed in the Make it in the Emirates Startup Pitch Competition, focus on these actionable tips:
By following these tips, seed-stage startups can maximize their chances of winning monetary prizes and gaining valuable industrial collaboration opportunities in the UAE's technology ecosystem.
| Competition / Funding Resource | Features | Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Make it in the Emirates Startup Pitch Competition | - UAE government-supported by Ministry of Industry & Advanced Technology | - Focus on seed-stage technical startups (TRL 3-9) in AI and advanced technology sectors | - Limited to startups in AI and advanced tech sectors |
| - Platform to pitch innovative ideas, gain mentorship, connect with industry partners | - Significant monetary prizes and industrial collaboration opportunities | - Competitive application process with strict eligibility criteria | |
| - Provides mentorship, investor connections, and growth opportunities | - Backed by strong government support, enhancing credibility and access | - Focused on early-stage startups, less suitable for later-stage companies | |
| Other UAE Seed Funding Options (e.g., VC Firms) | - Venture capital firms like Wamda Capital, Shorooq Partners, BECO Capital, VentureSouq | - Provide funding from $100K to $1M+ with mentorship and network access | - Often require equity and have longer funding cycles |
| - Focus on scalable tech startups with broader industry coverage | - Access to large funds and operational support | - Higher minimum investment thresholds may exclude very early startups | |
| - Structured application processes with multiple interview stages | - Hands-on support and growth acceleration programs | - Less accessible for startups outside major hubs like Dubai and Abu Dhabi |
This table summarizes the Make it in the Emirates Startup Pitch Competition as a government-backed seed-stage competition focused on AI and advanced technology startups, offering mentorship, funding, and industrial collaboration opportunities. It contrasts with private venture capital firms that provide larger funding amounts and broader industry focus but require equity and have longer, more complex application processes. This comparison helps UAE seed-stage startup founders quickly identify the most suitable funding path based on their sector focus, stage, and funding needs.
The Make it in the Emirates Startup Pitch Competition is a prime opportunity for seed-stage startups in the UAE, especially those focused on AI and advanced technology sectors, to gain critical funding, mentorship, and industry connections. Founders should ensure their startups meet the Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 3-9 criteria and have innovative, scalable solutions aligned with UAE national priorities and sustainability goals. To maximize success, founders should prepare a compelling pitch that clearly articulates the problem, unique solution, market potential, and competitive edge. Emphasizing sustainability and national impact will resonate well with judges. The application process requires submitting through the official online form by the deadline (typically mid-April), followed by pitching at the event in May. Participating startups benefit not only from monetary awards but also from mentorship sessions and opportunities for industrial collaboration, which are invaluable for early-stage growth and scaling. Founders should leverage this platform to network with investors, industry experts, and partners to accelerate their startup’s development. Overall, this competition is highly recommended for seed-stage tech startups aiming to establish a strong foothold in the UAE’s innovation ecosystem and secure strategic support for growth.
Pitch@Gov is a UAE-wide pitch competition for seed-stage startups to pitch their innovative ideas to expert judges. It offers grants up to AED 30,000 and entry into the Mohammed bin Rashid Innovation Fund (MBRIF) Innovation Accelerator, providing capital, mentorship, and investor access. Supported by UAE government entities, it helps startups gain funding and scale their innovations regionally.
Typical Funding Amount: Up to AED 30,000 in grant prize money ([pitch.mbrcgi.gov.ae](https://pitch.mbrcgi.gov.ae))
Funding Amount Range: Up to AED 30,000 in grants
Time to Funding: The average timeline from application to funding decision for Pitch@Gov is approximately one month, starting with a call for applications in early September, shortlisting by the end of September, pitching at GITEX in early October, and winners announced on the fourth day of GITEX.
The application process for Pitch@Gov pitch competition for seed-stage startups in the UAE includes the following key steps:
This process is designed to help seed-stage startups secure early funding, gain exposure, and access expert mentorship and investor networks in the UAE startup ecosystem. The competition focuses on innovations that are novel, replicable, impactful, and well-communicated, aiming to drive scalable and sustainable solutions.
Pitch@Gov is a UAE-wide pitch competition primarily targeting seed-stage startups with innovative concepts. To qualify, startups should be UAE-based or planning to set up operations in the UAE soon. The competition focuses on innovations that are novel, replicable, impactful, and well-communicated, with strong market potential. While the competition is open to all sectors, it aligns with the UAE National Innovation Strategy's priority sectors: Technology, Education, Water, Transport, Clean Energy, Health, and Space. Applicants typically need to have a working prototype or be in a post-ideation phase, ready to launch or already launched in the market. There are no nationality or age restrictions. The application process involves eligibility screening, qualification assessment, a final evaluation, and pitching to a panel of expert judges. Winners receive grants up to AED 30,000 and entry into the MBRIF Innovation Accelerator, a six-week program offering tailored business support, mentorship, and investor access. Non-UAE businesses can apply but are encouraged to establish UAE operations before program completion to maximize success.
To maximize success in the Pitch@Gov competition for seed-stage startups in the UAE, founders should focus on clearly articulating the novelty, replicability, and impact of their innovation, ensuring it aligns with the competition's criteria. Prepare a concise and compelling pitch that communicates the problem, unique solution, and market potential effectively. Thoroughly rehearse the pitch to fit within time limits and anticipate judges' questions. Engage actively during the application process, from submission to pitching at GITEX, and leverage feedback provided. If selected, fully utilize the MBRIF Innovation Accelerator program for tailored mentorship in business and market discovery, go-to-market strategy, finance, business development, and pitching. Build networks with judges, investors, and industry leaders to gain exposure and potential funding. Ensure all documentation and presentation materials are professional, data-driven, and aligned with UAE's strategic sectors such as sustainability and technology. Persistence in follow-up and relationship-building is key to converting competition success into long-term growth and investment.
| Feature | Description | Advantages | Limitations |
|---|---|---|---|
| Funding Amount | Grants up to AED 30,000 | Provides non-dilutive capital for seed-stage startups | Funding amount may be limited for startups needing larger capital |
| Application Process | Call for applications, shortlisting, pitching at GITEX, awards ceremony | Structured and transparent selection process | Competitive process with limited winners |
| Eligibility | Seed-stage startups in UAE with innovative, novel, replicable, impactful ideas | Focus on early-stage startups with scalable innovations | Limited to UAE-based or UAE-focused startups |
| Program Benefits | Winners join MBRIF Innovation Accelerator: 6-week tailored support in business, market, finance | Access to mentorship, investor networks, business development, and pitching skills | Intensive program requiring time commitment |
| Relevance to Startup Stage | Specifically for seed-stage startups | Ideal for startups seeking early funding, exposure, validation, and expert feedback | Not suited for later-stage startups seeking growth or expansion capital |
| Focus Areas | Innovations that are novel, scalable, impactful, and well-communicated | Encourages high-impact, sustainable solutions | May exclude ideas that are less scalable or early in concept development |
| Exposure & Networking | Pitching at GITEX, networking with industry leaders and investors | High visibility at a major tech event and access to UAE government-backed innovation ecosystem | Limited to event timing and availability |
| Supporters | Supported by Mohammed bin Rashid Center for Government Innovation (MBRCGI) and MBRIF | Strong government backing adds credibility and resources | Dependent on government program cycles and priorities |
This table summarizes the key features, advantages, and limitations of the Pitch@Gov competition, helping seed-stage UAE startups quickly assess its fit for their funding and growth needs.
Pitch@Gov is a highly recommended funding option for seed-stage startups in the UAE seeking early-stage capital, mentorship, and market exposure. It offers grants up to AED 30,000 and entry into the Mohammed bin Rashid Innovation Fund (MBRIF) Innovation Accelerator, a six-week program providing tailored support in business and market discovery, go-to-market strategy, finance, business development, and pitching. The competition is designed for startups with novel, replicable, impactful, and well-communicated innovations, aligning with UAE government innovation priorities. The application process includes a call for applications, shortlisting, pitching at GITEX, and awards, offering startups valuable exposure to expert judges, investors, and industry leaders. Founders should focus on preparing a clear and compelling pitch emphasizing their innovation's novelty, scalability, and impact to maximize their chances of success. This competition not only provides funding but also crucial mentorship and networking opportunities, making it an ideal choice for seed-stage startups aiming to secure early funding and accelerate growth within the UAE startup ecosystem.
The Khalifa Fund Entrepreneurship Competition is a premier UAE-based competition focused on seed-stage startups that have developed a prototype or minimum viable product (MVP). It targets startups with strong Emirati ties, requiring participants to be UAE nationals or in partnership with UAE nationals, primarily based in Abu Dhabi. The competition focuses on priority sectors such as biolife and healthcare, robotics and AI, and agritech, offering significant financial prizes along with mentorship, networking, and market expansion opportunities. This competition plays a crucial role in fostering early-stage ventures and sustainable economic growth within the UAE's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Typical Funding Amount: AED 50,000 to AED 2,000,000 (approximately USD 13,600 to USD 544,500) in interest-free loans and seed financing
Funding Amount Range: AED 150,000 to AED 3 million
Time to Funding: The average timeline from application to funding decision for the Khalifa Fund Entrepreneurship Competition is approximately 2 weeks after the application deadline, with applications closing around November 20 and finalists pitching by December 5.
The application process for the Khalifa Fund Entrepreneurship Competition for seed-stage startups in the UAE involves the following key steps:
Additional Notes:
This process fosters early-stage ventures and aligns with Abu Dhabi's Economic Vision 2030 to build a knowledge-based economy and innovation ecosystem. (incarabia.com, khalifafund.ae FAQ)
The Khalifa Fund Entrepreneurship Competition is open to seed-stage startups that have developed a prototype or minimum viable product (MVP). Participants must be UAE nationals or UAE-based expatriates partnered with Emiratis, primarily based in Abu Dhabi. The competition focuses on priority sectors including biolife and healthcare, robotics and AI, and agritech (including aquatech). Eligible applicants must submit a for-profit business plan outlining their growth strategy. Entrepreneurs are typically Emirati, between 21 and 60 years old, with a business based in Abu Dhabi. Finalists will pitch to a panel of judges at Abu Dhabi Business Week.
For seed-stage startups applying to the Khalifa Fund Entrepreneurship Competition in the UAE, founders should focus on demonstrating a clear prototype or minimum viable product (MVP) as proof of concept, which is a key eligibility requirement. Emphasize strong Emirati ties by ensuring the startup is either owned by UAE nationals or in partnership with Emiratis, and is primarily based in Abu Dhabi. Target sectors prioritized by the competition include biolife and healthcare, robotics and AI, and agritech, so aligning your startup’s solution with these areas increases relevance.
Prepare a comprehensive, for-profit business plan that clearly outlines your growth strategy, market feasibility, and financial projections, as this is critical for evaluation. Founders should also be ready to pitch their solutions effectively to a panel of judges, highlighting innovation, scalability, and impact potential.
Documentation is crucial: have ready a valid trade license, bank statements, audited financial statements, and other personal and business documents as required by Khalifa Fund. Engage early with Khalifa Fund’s business counselors for guidance and leverage their mentorship and networking opportunities.
Maximize success by showcasing traction metrics such as prototype development milestones, early customer feedback, or pilot results. Build a capable team with complementary skills to demonstrate execution capability. Understand the funding terms, including repayment plans and eligibility criteria, to align expectations.
Finally, participate actively in the entrepreneurial ecosystem events like Abu Dhabi Business Week to network and gain visibility. Use the competition as a platform not just for funding but for mentorship, market access, and strategic partnerships to accelerate your startup’s growth within the UAE market.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Focus Stage | Seed-stage startups with a prototype or minimum viable product (MVP) |
| Eligibility | UAE nationals or UAE-based expatriates partnered with Emiratis, primarily based in Abu Dhabi |
| Priority Sectors | Biolife & Healthcare; Robotics & AI; Agritech & Aquatech |
| Funding Amount | Significant financial prizes awarded to category winners |
| Application Process | Applications open until November 20; finalists pitch at Abu Dhabi Business Week (December 5) |
| Selection Criteria | Prototype/MVP and a for-profit business plan aligning with priority sectors |
| Benefits | Mentorship, networking opportunities, and market expansion |
| Organizers | Khalifa Fund for Enterprise Development; Abu Dhabi Chamber of Commerce; Department of Economic Development; ADIO |
| Purpose/Impact | Foster innovation and drive sustainable economic growth in the UAE’s entrepreneurial ecosystem |
| Documentation Required | Prototype/MVP; detailed business plan |
| Sector Focus | Medical technology, digital health, biotech, pharmaceuticals; automation, data analytics; sustainable agriculture, water management |
| Stage-Specific Tips | Emphasize measurable impact; align with Abu Dhabi Economic Vision 2030; showcase Emirati partnerships for credibility |
| Advantages | Government-backed; strong Emirati network; comprehensive support beyond funding |
| Limitations | Restricted to startups with Emirati involvement; sector and region-specific focus |
This premier UAE competition offers seed-stage startups with Emirati ties not only significant financial prizes but also mentorship and networking to scale impact. Founders should present a robust MVP and clear business strategy aligned with sector priorities and national economic objectives. (Khalifa Fund, Inc. Arabia)
The Khalifa Fund Entrepreneurship Competition is an excellent funding opportunity for seed-stage startups in the UAE, especially those that have developed a prototype or minimum viable product (MVP). It is highly relevant for startups with strong Emirati ties, as eligibility requires participants to be UAE nationals or in partnership with UAE nationals, primarily based in Abu Dhabi. Founders should consider this competition if their startup operates in priority sectors such as biolife and healthcare (including medical technology, digital health, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and wellness), robotics and AI (automation, data analytics, machine learning), or agritech and aquatech (sustainable agriculture, water management, food security, smart farming).
To maximize success, founders should prepare a solid for-profit business plan outlining their growth strategy and be ready to pitch their solution to a panel of judges. Early preparation of a prototype or MVP is critical, as this is a key eligibility criterion. The competition offers significant financial awards to category winners, alongside valuable mentorship, networking opportunities, and access to resources that can help scale the business within Abu Dhabi's entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Applications typically close a few weeks before the final pitch event, so founders should monitor the Khalifa Fund's announcements and apply early to ensure full compliance with submission requirements. This competition aligns with Abu Dhabi's Economic Vision 2030 and supports startups aiming to create measurable impact and sustainable growth.
In summary, the Khalifa Fund Entrepreneurship Competition is a strategic funding path for seed-stage UAE startups in targeted innovative sectors, providing not only capital but also ecosystem support essential for early-stage growth. Founders should leverage this opportunity by focusing on eligibility criteria, sector relevance, and thorough preparation of their business plan and MVP.
For more details and updates, founders can visit the Khalifa Fund official website and related Abu Dhabi business event platforms.
