The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF) has officially opened nominations for the SEFFY Awards 2025. These prestigious awards celebrate startup founders, mentors, and changemakers who have significantly impacted the UAE’s entrepreneurial landscape.
Recognizing Excellence Across Key Categories
A major highlight of SEF — the largest entrepreneurship event in the region, organized by the Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) — the SEFFY Awards honor achievements across five pivotal categories:
Outstanding Mentor: Celebrates impactful guidance and mentorship.
Social Impact: Recognizes startups creating positive change in communities.
Technology: Awards groundbreaking technological innovation.
Ecosystem Enabler: Highlights those advancing the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Rising Star: Recognizes promising new talent in entrepreneurship.
Moreover, the awards emphasize resilience and innovation, highlighting individuals who inspire and influence the entrepreneurial ecosystem.
Submission, Eligibility at Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival
Nominations are open until January 19, 2025. Entrepreneurs, mentors, and ecosystem contributors are encouraged to participate by submitting entries through https://sharjahef.com/seffy-awards-2025.
Importantly, participants must reside in the UAE to qualify. Winners will be revealed during SEF 2025, held on February 1–2, 2025.
The festival will take place at the Sharjah Research, Technology, and Innovation Park, further reinforcing Sharjah’s role in promoting entrepreneurship.
Benefits for Awardees at Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival
Winning a SEFFY Award offers numerous benefits. According to Abeer Al Ameeri, Head of Partnerships and Programs at Sheraa, awardees gain unparalleled visibility and recognition.
“Winners benefit from increased exposure, exclusive access to investors, and new opportunities for growth,” said Al Ameeri. “Additionally, these awards amplify their achievements, positioning them as leaders.”
Furthermore, the awards connect winners to Sheraa’s extensive global network of collaborators, markets, and industry experts, unlocking future opportunities.
Fostering Sharjah’s Role in Innovation
The SEFFY Awards underscore Sharjah’s dedication to nurturing creativity and empowering entrepreneurs to achieve significant growth.
By celebrating changemakers, the awards inspire future innovators while fostering collaboration among diverse stakeholders.
Additionally, these efforts position Sharjah as a global hub for entrepreneurship, emphasizing the emirate’s commitment to sustainable growth.
Ultimately, SEF strengthens community ties and encourages creative solutions, ensuring a bright future for the UAE’s entrepreneurial ecosystem.
