Seedstars World, the largest startup competition for emerging markets and fast-growing startup scenes is coming to the UAE for the 3rd time. With the support of the local host Sheraa Hub, Seedstars will be holding a dynamic pitch event on August 30th, at 3.00pm.
The companies selected to pitch at the Seedstars Sharjah event need to be less than 2 years old, have raised less than USD 500,000 in funding and built a minimum viable product, ideally with existing traction. The Seedstars team is searching for one additional criterion: the startup’s regional and global scalability. With a strong network of international partners, such as Merck, SPECo, Enel or Continental (amongst others) the competition organizers are looking for smart startups that tackle regional issues and develop profitable and sustainable products for the global market.
After a careful screening, the Seedstars team will shortlist 8 of the best seed-stage startups in Sharjah to pitch on August 30th for the opportunity to compete at the Seedstars Summit, that annually takes place in Switzerland.
“Seedstars World is a platform that connects investors and stakeholders with the next generation of entrepreneurs. Since this will be our 1st time organizing the event at Sharjah, the stakes are high and we are very excited. We’ve been in this ecosystem for more than 4 years now and know there are companies in the UAE developing high-quality products. We are looking for the best and will take it with us to Switzerland in 2019!”, says Meghan Warner, Regional Manager for MENA at Seedstars.
In order to provide local entrepreneurs with this opportunity and aiming to deliver the best possible event, Seedstars is closely working with Sheraa, who is representing the initiative throughout the year. “At our core, Sheraa and Seedstars share the mission of empowering entrepreneurs and creating an enabling ecosystem. Sheraa is therefore delighted to host the Sharjah edition of Seedstars World, which aims to foster connections between entrepreneurs and investors from all over the world. As a stepping stone towards the global summit, this competition provides our UAE-based startups with the opportunity to contend with some of the best internationally for over one million dollars in investment,” explains Najla Al Midfa, CEO at Sheraa.
It’s Seedstars’ goal to place the spotlight on entrepreneurs from emerging markets, especially those targeting solutions that align with UN Sustainable Development Goals. With that in mind, Seedstars World is travelling to more than 65 countries to identify the most innovative seed-stage startups, awarding them the opportunity to win up to USD 1 million and network with investors and mentors from around the world at the global Seedstars Summit in Switzerland. Its previous participants have raised over USD 92M collectively, providing employment to more than 2.100 employees worldwide.
The 8 startups selected will give a five minute pitch in English, in front of a jury made up of local startup heavyweights. Members of the public and press are welcome to come join the fun and should register on the above Seedstars Sharjah website as well!
