Deadline: 17 August 2025
The Access Sharjah Challenge 2025 is now open to education startups around the world, offering an exciting opportunity to pilot innovative learning solutions in Sharjah’s forward-thinking educational institutions. With a total prize pool of AED 500,000 and extensive support, the challenge provides a powerful springboard for EdTech ventures aiming to scale impact across the MENA region.
Now in its seventh edition, the Access Sharjah Challenge 2025 is led by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa), in partnership with the Sharjah Private Education Authority (SPEA) and Sharjah Education Academy (SEA). This year, the challenge focuses squarely on transforming education through scalable, technology-driven solutions aligned with the UAE’s National Strategy for Higher Education 2030.
What Is the Access Sharjah Challenge 2025?
The Access Sharjah Challenge 2025 is a global call for startups building educational tools that foster future-ready skills, language identity, and lifelong learning. It offers selected teams the chance to pilot their solutions within top institutions in Sharjah and gain international visibility through major education and entrepreneurship platforms.
What’s on Offer?
AED 500,000 Prize Pool
Two winning startups will each receive AED 250,000 to pilot their solutions in Sharjah schools and nurseries.
Real-World Pilots
Winners will roll out their innovations at selected institutions including:
- Alsedra Private School
- Khalifah Al Hamzah American School
- Pakistan Islamia Higher Secondary School
- Al Badee Nursery
Global Showcasing Opportunities
Shortlisted ventures will showcase their products at the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival 2026 and the Sharjah International Summit on Improvement in Education.
Expert Support & Mentorship
Startups will receive access to technical mentorship, product localisation support, and assistance with regulations—an in-kind value exceeding USD 1 million.
Focus Areas for 2025
Startups must align with one of the following core themes:
- Future-Ready Skills Challenge
Solutions that equip learners with critical thinking, digital literacy, and 21st-century skills. - Arabic in Early Childhood
Innovations that enhance Arabic language acquisition and cultural identity in young learners.
Who Can Apply?
The Access Sharjah Challenge 2025 is ideal for:
- Startups in Pre-Series A to Series C stages
- Teams with validated prototypes and evidence of traction
- Ventures with experience in public or private education partnerships
- Founders committed to establishing a presence in Sharjah to scale operations
Timeline & Key Dates
- Application Deadline: 17 August 2025
- Shortlisting Announced: Late August
- Champions Training: 20 August 2025
- Startup Readiness Sprint: 27–28 August 2025
- Pilot Phase Begins: 22 September 2025
- Final Showcase: 14–15 February 2026
Why Participate?
The Access Sharjah Challenge 2025 offers more than funding—it’s a strategic gateway to test, refine, and scale your innovation in a supportive, real-world education environment.
Startups will benefit from:
- Hands-on pilot experience in top institutions
- Tailored mentorship and access to Sharjah’s education ecosystem
- Exposure to investors, educators, and policymakers
- Regional visibility and long-term partnership opportunities
How to Apply
Ready to transform education?
👉 Click here to apply
👉 Click here to read more about the programme
✍️ Need Help with Your Application?
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