By Imran Malik – Media Bites & Sharah News
H.E. Najla Al Midfa, Vice Chairperson of Sharjah Entrepreneurship Center (Sheraa) and Managing Director of Emirates Growth Fund (EGF), stands as a transformative force in the UAE’s entrepreneurial landscape. Her leadership mantra—“kindness with a spine”—is more than a phrase; it’s a philosophy that blends empathy with accountability, reshaping how innovation and resilience are cultivated across the region.
At Sheraa, Al Midfa has built a thriving ecosystem that has supported over 450 startups, incubated 180 ventures, and generated nearly 2,700 jobs. These startups have collectively raised US$297 million and earned US$372 million in revenue. Impressively, 95% of Sheraa’s incubated startups over the past three years remain active, with more than half led by women—highlighting Sheraa’s commitment to inclusivity. The Sharjah Entrepreneurship Festival (SEF), Sheraa’s flagship event, has drawn over 44,000 participants and awarded more than US$200,000 in prizes, igniting thousands of new ventures.
Her work at EGF adds another layer to her impact. With AED1 billion in capital from Emirates Development Bank, the fund targets scalable SMEs, investing between AED10 million to AED50 million in high-growth businesses. EGF’s recent investment in Tarmeem Healthcare Holding marks a milestone, and the fund is poised to support 30 SMEs, contributing an estimated AED3 billion to the UAE’s GDP.
Al Midfa’s dual roles reflect her ability to navigate both ends of the entrepreneurial spectrum—mentoring early-stage founders at Sheraa and scaling mature businesses through EGF. “At Sheraa, I’m in the trenches with entrepreneurs. At EGF, it’s about pairing ambition with stewardship,” she says.
Her approach to leadership is grounded in the belief that the future belongs to those who balance care with high standards. “Trust and lasting impact come from mastering both,” she affirms.
By bridging ecosystems, championing women-led ventures, and fostering sustainable growth, Najla Al Midfa is not only shaping the UAE’s innovation economy but also setting a global example of visionary leadership. Her journey is a masterclass in how compassion and conviction can drive meaningful change.
